Parijat Ghosh 
Game of Thrones fans are buzzing about A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms, and early reactions are rolling in fast. The first season of this new HBO prequel is officially out on January 18, 2026, and reviewers are calling it funny, charming, and surprisingly refreshing compared to the heavy drama of its franchise siblings. Critics gave the show a generally favorable score on review aggregators. On Metacritic, the first season holds a score in the low seventy range, showing most reviews are positive. Some critics rated episodes near perfect, while a few were more critical. If you want an in-depth book review for A Knight of Seven Kingdoms, check here.
A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms Presents a Different Kind of Westeros
Unlike the dark political conflict of Game of Thrones or the royal drama of House of the Dragon, this show leans into lighter, character-driven storytelling. It centers on two unlikely heroes: Ser Duncan the Tall (Dunk) and his young squire Egg, mixing comedy with heartfelt moments. Here’s all you need to know about Dunk and Egg before watching the series.
Reviewers praised the show for its intimate scope. Instead of sprawling battles and conspiracies, critics noticed a focus on the small details of life in Westeros, plus a refreshing sense of humor that often feels playful and unexpected. Many are calling the dynamic between Dunk and Egg one of the best things about the series. They shine as a duo, offering energy, chemistry, and emotional depth that make viewers care about their journey.
Humor That Hits … and Sometimes Misses
One of the biggest talking points in the Reddit review megathread and critics alike is the show’s comedic tone. Some viewers are thrilled that this Westeros story doesn’t take itself too seriously, but others have reservations. Critics noted this show uses jokes more openly than any Game of Thrones title before. There are potty humor moments and Monty Python-style gags, which to some feel fresh and hilarious, but to others come off as over the top or distracting.
For fans who wanted intense drama, the lighter touches might feel strange at first. Still, many reviewers think the balance between comedy and character drama works better than expected.
What Fans Are Saying
The Reddit megathread reflects the wide range of reactions. Many fans echoed critical praise, saying this feels like the best visit to Westeros in nearly a decade. Some called the emotional beats and humor a welcome break from the usual grim fantasy fare. A smaller group online isn’t so sure. Some feel the show’s tone doesn’t quite capture the epic spirit of the franchise, and that it feels separate from what people expect from a Game of Thrones prequel.
Overall, A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms is more charming than serious, more personal than political, and more fun than dark. Critics are mostly pleased, fans are divided but engaged, and the buzz feels strong as the episodes continue to drop. Whether you want laughs, warmth, or a fresh take on Westeros, this show definitely delivers something different.
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