Serial Vs. Episodic Shows

Many serial shows have gained significant success, such as AMC's Breaking Bad, A&E's Bates Motel, and HBO's Game of Thrones. Are serial shows becoming more popular? Is it possible that recording technology, along with the internet, has allowed more networks to take on serial shows? People no longer have to worry if they miss an episode, compared to in the past where a missed episode could mean lost viewers for a serial television series.