Since its debut in 2016, Stranger Things has been a darling of critics, and Rotten Tomatoes’ scores reflect that love affair. The platform, known for aggregating critic consensus, gives the show an impressive overall rating of 92%. Season 1, often celebrated as a near-perfect entry point, shines with a 97% approval rating based on 92 reviews and a weighted average of 8.2/10. Critics described it as “exciting, heartbreaking, and sometimes scary,” while also praising it as “an addictive homage to Spielberg films and vintage 1980s television.” These accolades underscore the series’ successful fusion of suspense, nostalgia, and character-driven storytelling.
Subsequent seasons maintained strong ratings: Season 2 earned a 94% approval, Season 3 an 89%, and Season 4 a respectable 88%. The slight downward trend in later seasons is perhaps unsurprising as audiences and critics expect innovation while remaining true to the original tone. These figures illustrate not only the show’s ability to deliver consistent quality but also its adaptability, a key factor in sustaining a decade-long run.
Metacritic, which aggregates reviews into a single weighted score, offers a more varied picture of Stranger Things. The overall score sits at 74, signalling “generally favorable reviews.” Season 1 scored a solid 74 out of 100 from 142 critical reviews, providing a foundation of approval from traditional critics. Interestingly, Season 2 saw a slight improvement, climbing to 78, whereas Season 3 dipped to 72 and Season 4 reached 69.
This variation highlights the challenges of sustaining critical acclaim across multiple seasons. Despite the fluctuations, each score remains comfortably above 60, the threshold generally considered indicative of positive reception. Metacritic’s numbers demonstrate that while not every critic may have been enamoured with the evolving storylines, the show consistently impressed with its storytelling, world-building, and character arcs.
Where Rotten Tomatoes and Metacritic gauge critical consensus, IMDb provides a window into audience engagement, and the numbers are telling. Stranger Things currently holds an 8.7/10 rating, compiled from over a million user reviews. This strong score underscores the show’s ability to connect emotionally with viewers, turning suspenseful narratives and nostalgic references into a shared cultural experience.
The audience ratings also highlight the unique dynamic of the series: even when seasons faced mixed critical reviews, fans remained deeply invested in Hawkins and its inhabitants. From Will Byers’ mysterious disappearance to Eleven’s telekinetic battles and the gang’s escapades in the Upside Down, viewers have remained loyal, validating the show’s longevity. The IMDb scores illustrate the power of storytelling that resonates across generations, confirming that Stranger Things is not only a critical success but a cultural phenomenon.
Across Rotten Tomatoes, Metacritic, and IMDb, Stranger Things demonstrates a rare balance of critical acclaim and popular affection. Its combination of 1980s nostalgia, compelling characters, and supernatural intrigue has created a series that appeals to critics and audiences alike. As the fifth season looms, expectations are high, but if past trends hold true, both critics and fans are set to continue celebrating the series’ unique place in television history. From Hawkins to the Upside Down, the show has crafted a legacy that blends suspense, heart, and nostalgia into a truly unforgettable viewing experience.
