Quoted from HoakyPoaky:After Season 5 the show is on it's own path. I believe Martin gave the producers a basic outline of how he envisions the story will go, but the producers are free to create their own direction to that endpoint. I absolutely love this show, and the fantasy genre in general.
Lets assume this rumor is true & GOT is Stern's fall title.....
It's becoming increasing more likely that Stern (GOT) & JJP (Hobbit) will have two fantasy themed tables, both involving kings & dragons, both in production at the same time later this fall. Both featuring some of the best designers & programmers in the industry, with years of design time surrounding each of these titles. There's only so much money to go around among buyers, and with two similarly themed tables on the market at the same time, it's going to be a difficult purchase decision for many, because I'm sure both machines are going to be outstanding.
You bring up a very good point here. Will be interesting to see if it unfolds like this.