It`s true, if you want the HBO package with our provider (Shaw) it`s not included in any of the regular bundles... so first you have to pay for your basic cable and a package that includes HBO, so they end up charging like $40 per month if you only want HBO.
I`m fine using torrents to get shows that I wouldn`t be paying for even if that was the only option. Game of Thrones is the only one I`d really miss, but in the long run it would be cheaper just to buy the season once it comes out.