The world of Westeros continues to expand. It has come to light that a Game of Thrones animated series is in the works for HBO Max. It is stressed that the show is in the early stages of development. But it further signals that HBO sees the world George R.R. Martin created in his beloved A Song of Fire and Ice series of fantasy books is one that can grow beyond a single show. As for what this animated take on the franchise would be, that remains up in the air.

According to a new report, the animated Game of Thrones series is in the early stages and is being eyed specifically for HBO Max. No plot details have been revealed at this time and no writer is currently attached. Though it is said that the brass at HBO are consulting with George R.R. Martin on creating a more expansive GoT universe. Martin has a rich overall deal set up at HBO. So it makes sense for the network to put that deal to good use.

Game of Thrones was truly a huge hit for HBO across its eight seasons, with the show concluding its run in 2019. More than that, the fantasy series garnered global popularity, especially toward the end of its run, which is nearly impossible to achieve in an era when media is so splintered. Granted, the final season was viewed largely by the fanbase as a big letdown, which left things on a sour note. Be that as it may, HBO is in the process of expanding the franchise with further spin-offs.

Aside from this new animated project, a prequel series titled House of the Dragon is expected to arrive sometime in 2022. It was picked up straight to series in October 2019. Olivia Cooke, Emma D'Arcy and Matt Smith will star in the show. HBO had shot a pilot for a different prequel starring Naomi Watts that was not picked up to series. We also recently learned that Dunk and Egg is being eyed as another possible spin-off series. Should all of these get the go-ahead, it would mean three different shows set within the same universe. Disney, similarly, is going heavy on Star Wars for Disney+, given the success of The Mandalorian. In the streaming wars, marquee content, especially connected to a popular franchise, is king.

HBO Max launched last year and, so far, it has failed to generate enough subscribers to truly compete with the likes of Netflix and Disney+. But with the entire 2021 Warner Bros. movie slate debuting on the streaming service this year the same day those titles are being released in theaters, that subscriber count will undoubtedly blossom. There are also conflicting reports regarding a Harry Potter live-action TV series, which would be more franchise-based content to attract some much-needed attention. We'll be sure to keep you posted as any further details are made available. This news comes to us via The Hollywood Reporter.