You've pointed out some valid criticisms regarding the "Battle of Winterfell" episode. The tactical decisions made by the defenders of Winterfell were indeed questionable and have been widely debated among fans and military strategists alike.
If I were to provide a game plan addressing these concerns, this might be what an optimized strategy for both sides could look like:
For Winterfell's side:
1. Use the Dragons more Strategically: Instead of sending them into the thick of battle right off the bat, they could have been held back initially, then deployed to mop up the enemy forces after they were engaged with the ground troops.
2. Layered Defense: Instead of creating just one trench, several could have been laid out to slow the Night King's army's advance progressively.
3. Position of Cavalry: The Dothraki were exceptionally swift and brutal fighters. They could have been used for quick strikes, hit-and-run tactics on the flanks of the enemy instead of a frontal charge into the unknown.
4. Fortifying Winterfell: Ensuring the castle itself is heavily fortified and rigged with dragon glass booby traps could have inflicted heavy damage.
On the Night King's side,
1. Optimize Use of Wights: He could have sent a fraction of his army first, forcing Winterfell to reveal their tactics, and then adjusted to suit. He had an almost endless supply of fighters; no need to send them all at once.
2. Better Utilization of the White Walker Lieutenants: We see them standing back for most of the battle. They could have been engaged to significant effect.
3. Dragon Battle: Instead of an aerial battle, the Night King could have targeted those on the ground, or the walls of Winterfell.
Remember though, "Game of Thrones" is a high-fantasy series that thrives on surprising and shocking its viewers, often prioritizing dramatic effect over practicality or strategic consistency. While your points are valid from a tactical standpoint, the drama and sheer spectacle of the battle scenes often take precedence in fantasy storytelling and definitely added to the edge-of-the-seat experience that "The Battle of Winterfell" was aiming to create.
