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'House of the Dragon': Should you watch 'Game of Thrones' before tuning into watch the HBO series

For those who haven't 'Game of Thrones', the prequel serves as a perfect start to know the characters betters and maybe understand the show better

'House of the Dragon' becomes a lot more important, especially after the 'Game of Thrones' conclusion that ended in a damp squib. The first spin-off of the hit HBO series is days away and that would mean some of the fantasy series fans catching up on some key 'GoT' chapters in order to stay equipped for the prequel. This also serves the question of whether you need to watch 'Game of Thrones' ahead of 'House of the Dragon's release. 

According to Rotten Tomatoes, the synopsis reads, "Set 300 years before the events of Game of Thrones, the series tells the story of a turbulent period for House Targaryen, one that set sibling against sibling and dragon against dragon. The point of contention: who should rule on the Iron Throne, of course."

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Should you watch 'Game of Thrones before 'House of the Dragon'?

Well, the answer is yes and no. For those who haven't 'Game of Thrones', the prequel serves as a perfect start to know the characters betters. The ones who have already watched the critically-acclaimed HBO series will be able to have a better connection with the show. The family tree and the dynamics between characters are better understood. For the casually curious, the period fantasy drama revolves around the House Targaryen where civil war breaks out between siblings Aegon II and Rhaenyra over the throne following the death of their father Viserys I. The season comprises of ten chapters but may be renewed if the show is a smash hit.

The cast list boasts of some of the finest in Hollywood: Matt Smith, Olivia Cooke, Paddy Considine, Emma D’Arcy, Graham McTavish, Eve Best, Steve Toussaint, Rhys Ifans, and Bill Paterson. Ryan J. Condal serves as creator and executive producer, with author George R.R. Martin to finetune the plot. The series is based on the 2018 book 'Fire & Blood' by Martin.

'House of the Dragon' premieres on August 21 on HBO and HBO Max.