If the fiery battles and backstabbing politics of House of the Dragon have you hungry for more, you're not alone. Set two centuries before Game of Thrones, the prequel follows House Targaryen's bloody civil war—the Dance of the Dragons—as rival heirs fight for the Iron Throne. While you wait for House of the Dragon Season 3, these 15 shows deliver similar doses of intrigue, warfare, and a touch of magic.
1. Merlin (2008–2012)
This BBC reimagining of Arthurian legend follows young Merlin, a warlock hiding his powers in a kingdom where magic is outlawed. As he serves Prince Arthur, he learns from a dragon that their fates are intertwined. Though lighter in tone, Merlin offers plenty of political scheming, memorable characters, and creative magic—plus a complex King Uther who's both tyrant and father.
2. The Dark Crystal: Age of Resistance (2019)
Jim Henson's prequel uses stunning puppetry to tell a dark tale of rebellion. On the planet Thra, Gelfling heroes uncover the Skeksis' sinister plot to drain their essence. With wicked politics, torture, and a cast voiced by Mark Hamill and Jason Isaacs, this show matches House of the Dragon's emotional weight and tyrannical drama.
3. Shōgun (2024–Present)
Set in 1600s Japan, Shōgun replaces dragons with samurai but keeps the brutal civil war and power struggles. Lord Toranaga faces off against a rival regent, while an English shipwreck survivor gets caught in the chaos. The bilingual storytelling and lavish production make it a must-watch for fans of political turmoil.
4. The Winter King (2023)
Based on Bernard Cornwell's novels, this gritty take on King Arthur follows Arthur's exile and return to a war-torn Dark Age Britain. With bloody battles, redemption arcs, and characters like Merlin and Nimue, it's a raw, entertaining war story for those who love House of the Dragon's brutal realism.
5. Mayfair Witches (2023–Present)
Anne Rice's supernatural horror series centers on a powerful witch family. While it leans more into magic than dragons, the family feuds and dark secrets will appeal to fans of Targaryen drama. It's part of AMC's Immortal Universe, so expect rich lore and complex characters.
6. Vikings (2013–2020)
This historical epic follows Norse warrior Ragnar Lothbrok as he rises from farmer to king. With raids, betrayals, and family conflicts, Vikings captures the same sense of ambition and warfare that drives House of the Dragon. No dragons, but plenty of shield walls and political maneuvering.
7. Shadow and Bone (2021–2023)
Based on Leigh Bardugo's Grishaverse novels, this fantasy series features a magical elite, a dark army, and a war-torn kingdom. The political landscapes and complex characters—plus a touch of magic—make it a perfect companion for House of the Dragon fans.
8. The Last Kingdom (2015–2022)
Set in 9th-century England, this show follows Uhtred of Bebbanburg as he navigates Saxon and Viking conflicts. With themes of loyalty, identity, and brutal warfare, it's a grounded alternative to the fantasy of House of the Dragon.
9. His Dark Materials (2019–2022)
Based on Philip Pullman's books, this series follows Lyra Belacqua in a world where souls manifest as animal daemons. With a war against a tyrannical church and parallel universes, it offers epic stakes and emotional depth similar to the Targaryen saga.
10. The Witcher (2019–Present)
Geralt of Rivia hunts monsters in a world of political intrigue and magic. With complex characters, brutal battles, and a sprawling narrative, The Witcher scratches the same itch as House of the Dragon—especially for fans of morally gray heroes.
11. Rome (2005–2007)
This HBO historical drama depicts the fall of the Roman Republic through the eyes of soldiers and politicians. With backstabbing, war, and power struggles, it's a blueprint for the political drama that defines House of the Dragon.
12. The Crown (2016–2023)
While not fantasy, The Crown offers the same kind of family drama and succession crises as the Targaryens. Queen Elizabeth II's reign is filled with political maneuvering and personal sacrifices that will resonate with fans of royal intrigue.
13. Outlander (2014–Present)
Time-traveling Claire Randall navigates 18th-century Scotland, where clan wars and political upheaval mirror the conflicts of Westeros. With romance, war, and a touch of magic, it's a sprawling epic for those who love House of the Dragon's scope.
14. The Wheel of Time (2021–Present)
Based on Robert Jordan's novels, this fantasy series follows a group of people in a world where magic is real and a dark one threatens to break free. With political factions, prophecies, and epic battles, it's a rich world for fans of House of the Dragon.
15. Game of Thrones (2011–2019)
Of course, the original series is the ultimate companion. While House of the Dragon explores the Targaryen civil war, Game of Thrones shows the aftermath—and the rise of Daenerys. For a deeper dive into the lore, check out 5 'Fire & Blood' Changes That Make 'House of the Dragon' Even Better.
Whether you crave dragons, political scheming, or bloody battles, these shows will keep you entertained until House of the Dragon Season 3 arrives. Happy bingeing!
