One ofThe Stormlight Archive’s earliest twists packs a serious punch, andit proves a TV adaptation ofBrandon Sanderson’s bookscould match the likes ofGame of Thrones.Althoughfantasy shows trying to copyGame of Thronesare getting old, aStormlight Archiveadaptation would benefitfrom following in the HBO series' footsteps. For one, Sanderson’s story is far too complex to be a movie instead of a TV show. But it would also require a take on the story that feels grounded and tackles realistic themes, just likeGame of Thrones.
Of course,The Stormlight Archivefeatures far more magic than George R.R. Martin’s story, so a TV show would need to strike the right balance while bringing it to life. The more fantastical elements of Sanderson’s world would help set aStormlight Archiveshow apart fromGOT, while the author’s ability to subvert expectations and fantasy tropes would align the two properties. Sanderson’s world may not be quite as dark as Martin’s, butits ability to take unexpected turns will appeal to the same viewership asGame of Thrones.
The Stormlight Archive’s Opening Kaladin Twist Upends Fantasy Tropes & Expectations
It’s The Sort Of Gut Punch Game Of Thrones Is Known For
The Stormlight Archivefeatures multiple time jumps at the beginning ofThe Way of Kings,and one of its opening twists totally upends expectations. The first chapter after the prelude and prologue is told from the perspective of a soldier named Cenn, who is dragged into a conflict but welcomed into Kaladin Stormblessed’s squad. It initially seems as though Cenn could be an important character in Sanderson’s series, just as it appears that Kaladin will take on a heroic role from the beginning. However, Sanderson turns those impressions on their heads in just a few pages.
Reveals like this would make exciting additions to any TV show. In fact, they’re part of whyGame of Thronesis so big.
This chapter ends with Kaladin and his squad in dire straits, and the next one opens with a devastating gut punch eight months later. As it turns out, Cenn and the rest of Kaladin’s squad perish on the battlefield after their confrontation. Kaladin is in chains the next time we see him, which is totally unexpected after the character’s introduction.The Stormlight Archivestays fresh with surprising narrative shifts like this, pushing back against typical fantasy conventions. Reveals like this would make exciting additions to any TV show. In fact, they’re part of whyGame of Thronesis so big.
Twists Like This Would Make A Stormlight Archive TV Show As Big As Game Of Thrones
Kaladin becoming a slave and losing his men is a gut punch inThe Stormlight Archive, and it’s delivered in a way that’s both surprising and sets the tone of the series.Game of Thronesfeatures many of its own jaw-dropping twists, from Ned Stark’s season 1 death to the devastating Red Wedding. TheseGame of Thronesmoments are what helped the series stand out when it was on air, allowing it to grip audiences and make a name for itself in the fantasy genre.
The Stormlight Archive Is Already Avoiding Making Game Of Thrones’ Biggest Mistake
Brandon Sanderson once pointed out one of the major mistakes in Game of Thrones, and it highlights a strength of The Stormlight Archive.
WithTheStormlight Archiveproving it can do the same in just a couple of chapters, its adaptation would prove a worthy contender to become the “next Game of Thrones.” Only time will tell if Sanderson’s books get the TV treatment — many are stillwaiting on theMistbornmovie— but if they do, there’s little doubt their adaptation will defy expectations and shake up the genre.
The Stormlight Archive
The Stormlight Archive is an epic fantasy series by Brandon Sanderson, set on the storm-ravaged world of Roshar. The series follows multiple characters, each with their unique storylines, as they navigate political intrigue, ancient prophecies, and powerful magic. Central to the story are the Knights Radiant, legendary warriors with magical abilities who must return to save their world from impending destruction. The series explores themes of honor, leadership, and the burden of power.
