the showrunners have returned to the elements that initially contributed to Game of Thrones' success. westeros maintains a familiar essence for viewers while subtly diverging in its portrayal. the costumes evoke an earlier era, and the cinematography adopts a noticeably warmer tone compared to previous seasons. certain set pieces, like the Iron Throne, are revisited, but they undergo slight modifications that signal a distinct Westeros. HOTD presents a more grounded and nuanced narrative compared to GoT, emphasizing greater character development and fewer sprawling storylines and locations. the cast is exceptional, delivering compelling dramatic moments. while it still maintains a connection to Game of Thrones, it establishes its own distinct tone.