Of all the noble houses in Game of Thrones, it’s easy to understand why House Stark is a common favorite among fans. Residing in Winterfell, the family is known for their perseverance, and while they might sometimes come off as cold, they’re simply remaining vigilant. Their motto, “Winter is Coming,” reminds them that danger is always on the way.
Though Game of Thrones features an ensemble of characters, the Starks are typically seen as the protagonists, serving as heroes against villains like the Lannisters, the Boltons, and other powerful families. All of that said, not every Stark is as honorable as they strive to be, and they all make missteps throughout the show.
So let’s get reacquainted with each Stark featured on Game of Thrones and rank them from worst to best! (Note: We’re only including the Starks featured in the present-day storylines of the show, so folks like Ned’s older brother Brandon Stark won’t appear).
8. Robb Stark
Okay, I’m just going to say it: Robb Stark is an overrated Game of Thrones character. Disagree with me all you want, but I just don’t really like him! The eldest son of Ned and Catelyn Stark, we get to know Robb early on in the series, a young man wanting to do big things. When he comes into power as King in the North after his father is killed, he tries to follow in Ned’s footsteps by leading with honor. But he doesn’t quite succeed.
Robb is not ready to be a king and he makes mistakes along the way. I certainly can’t fault him for that, but these mistakes ultimately get him and his loved ones killed. He doesn’t listen to his mother, who is right most of the time, and prioritizes winning battles over saving his sisters who are presumably in danger in King’s Landing. Robb’s early success in the war makes him arrogant, and his storyline up until his death becomes tedious.
Sure, Robb physically fights in battle, but has he ever had to work for anything in his life before that? He’s spoiled. I’d rather watch any of the other Starks’ journeys unfold.
