Every Season of Stranger Things Ranked Worst to Best

It’s always a little bittersweet when a show ends, but it really hits you when it’s one you’ve been watching for almost ten years! I remember when Game of Thrones first came out – it was amazing! A really complex political story set in a fantasy world, and they weren’t afraid to kill off anyone, which was shocking at the time. For six seasons, it was incredible, and honestly, if the last couple of seasons hadn’t been… well, divisive, it might have been considered the greatest show ever. But you know what? The whole experience of watching it was more important than how it ended. I felt the same way watching the final season of Stranger Things on Netflix – the journey was what mattered most.

Everyone is talking about the latest season of Stranger Things – it’s the biggest show right now, and fans are eager to discuss how it all ended and what’s next. We’ve taken a look back at every season, ranking them from least to most enjoyable.

5) Season 2

The second season of the Netflix series dramatically changes direction from the first, introducing a much bigger threat with the villain, the Mind Flayer. However, the season loses steam with a detour focusing on Eleven’s sister, Kali, and her group – a storyline that feels forced and slows down the main plot. Once that plotline wraps up, the show has trouble regaining its energy. Adding to the disappointment, the season also kills off Bob, who was a fan favorite and the show’s most genuinely kind character.

4) Season 5

Honestly, if the whole of Season 5 had been as strong as its first part, it would rank much higher for me. But the second half really let things down, not just for that season, but for the entire series, in my opinion. After Will discovers his powers in episode four, the show just doesn’t hit those same emotional highs again. I found myself frustrated by some character decisions, and moments that should have been incredibly moving felt rushed or skipped over in favor of less important scenes. The finale does offer a really touching epilogue that partially redeems things, but it doesn’t quite fix all the issues.

3) Season 3

Despite some criticism for trying to do too much and using a familiar fake-out death trope, Stranger Things 3 really shines with its summery, blockbuster-inspired atmosphere and the incredible setting of the Starcourt Mall. Many would argue that Billy is the show’s strongest villain when controlled by the Mind Flayer. While it has a few awkward scenes, they’re quickly overshadowed by the exciting Battle of Starcourt. Ultimately, this season is just pure, unadulterated fun – so grab some popcorn and enjoy it for what it is!

2) Season 4

Enjoy Stranger Things while you can, because once it’s over, it’s truly finished. Season 4 really raises the stakes with the introduction of Vecna, a terrifying villain who threatens to destroy Hawkins. The new character, Eddie, also makes a big impact, even in a short amount of time, and highlights how damaging false information can be. While Season 4 isn’t flawless and has some slow moments, the good parts far outweigh the bad.

1) Season 1

Let me tell you, Stranger Things really swings for the fences. By the later seasons, we’re talking epic battles with colossal creatures in alternate dimensions – it gets big. But honestly? The show shines brightest when it keeps things smaller, focusing on those original kids and the bonds they share. That first season, though? Magic. It really captured the spirit of films like E.T. and The Goonies, creating something special for streaming that I don’t think we’ve seen duplicated since. And it’s surprisingly moving! I found myself genuinely invested in Eleven, despite her limited dialogue, and even Sheriff Hopper, the gruffest, most reluctant hero you could ask for. It’s a show that really gets you feeling something.

Stranger Things is streaming on Netflix.

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2026-01-03 19:11