Buzz
Since its premiere on Netflix in the summer of 2016, Stranger Things has skyrocketed to become one of the platform's most popular series.
Set in the quaint town of Hawkins, Indiana, the show follows a group of children and their families as they uncover the unsettling truth that their town harbors a portal to a sinister alternate dimension called the Upside Down. Their hope lies in Eleven, a young girl with telekinetic powers who becomes the ultimate weapon against this otherworldly menace.
The show has achieved unparalleled success, and with the arrival of season 4, we’re revisiting and ranking all previous seasons from top to bottom.
1. Stranger Things Season 1
The magic of Stranger Things from its inception is nearly indescribable. From the very beginning, the show brought us unforgettable characters such as Joyce Byers and Jim Hopper, alongside the endearing group of kids who bond over Dungeons and Dragons and become central to the unfolding mystery.
While Stranger Things has consistently delivered strong seasons, none can rival the flawless execution of its debut. It’s a masterful thriller that achieves greatness through simplicity, and its ’80s nostalgia adds the perfect finishing touch.
2. Stranger Things Season 2
Arguably the most eagerly awaited second season in Netflix history, Stranger Things returned just in time for Halloween 2017, delivering a fittingly eerie experience. This season delves into the fallout from the first, with Will Byers grappling to readjust to normal life after his harrowing experience in the Upside Down, and Mike coping with the presumed loss of Eleven.
Stranger Things 2 occasionally falls into the trap of “sequelitis,” retreading familiar storylines from its predecessor (including a polarizing standalone episode). However, it amplifies the horror, intensifies the surprises, and raises the stakes without crossing into excessive gore. The final two episodes, in particular, are absolutely breathtaking.
3. Stranger Things Season 4 (Part 1)
Season 4 kicked off with a bold, darker, and more terrifying tone, not just because its first part included seven lengthy episodes. The season distinguished itself by expanding the narrative beyond Hawkins, adopting a more mature vibe that signaled Stranger Things had evolved into something more grown-up.
This time, the Mind Flayer was replaced by a new villain, Vecna, who wreaked havoc across dimensions with brutal killings. Meanwhile, Eleven, now powerless, faced challenges adjusting to her new life in California. At the same time, fan-favorite Jim Hopper found himself imprisoned in a remote, secret facility.
That said, the longer episodes sometimes struggle with pacing, and the shift to a more graphic style may not appeal to all viewers. Nevertheless, the first part of the season successfully reintroduced a serious tone while preserving the heartfelt essence fans adore. The anticipation now builds for the final two episodes, set to conclude on July 1.
4. Stranger Things Season 3
Upon its release, season 3 of Stranger Things was hailed by some critics as a revitalization for the series, which had seemingly plateaued in its second season. In many respects, it delivered on that promise, offering a more daring narrative that aimed to expand beyond the confines of Hawkins.
This season, the gateway to the Upside Down was reopened by external forces, and the core group must once again unite to close it. The situation grows more dire when Max’s brother, Billy, becomes entangled in the chaos.
Stranger Things 3 shines in many areas, from its heightened emotional depth to the budding friendship between Eleven and Max, as well as the introduction of Robin. However, its occasional reliance on the series’ quirkier, comedic elements sometimes overshadows the more serious aspects of the story.
Despite this, the season finale, “Chapter Eight: The Battle of Starcourt,” stands out as one of the most thrilling and impactful episodes the show has ever created.
