Stranger Things: Ranked

Emma Wheeler, Sugar Beet opinion editor • September 4, 2025

Stranger Things is a well-known and popular TV series about a group of mystery-solving kids and a girl with supernatural powers. In this series, they uncover many secrets and battle different monsters. The show currently consists of four seasons, with the fifth one coming out later this year. My ranking of the Stranger Things seasons, from worst to best, is: Season Two, Season One, Season Four, Season Three.

To begin with, Season Two was very slow and boring. It wasn’t as fast-paced and thrilling as the other three seasons. It contained unnecessary side plots; for example, Eleven’s sister, Eight, was introduced in episode seven but was never seen again –making her story feel like filler. I found the villain, the Mind Flayer, underwhelming. Other than possessing Will, it doesn’t interact with the characters at all and mainly serves as a puppet master.

Season One is where it all began. Although this season was also slower-paced, it was more engaging than Season Two. The mystery of Eleven and the Upside Down are fun to watch the first time, but sort of boring the second time around. The characters aren’t very developed, which makes sense because it’s just the first season. For example, Steve Harrington was rude most of the season, but toward the end, he started to show some development.

Season Four takes on a darker tone, adding some interesting tension for both the characters, and viewers. The group is not together, which brings different atmospheres into the story. This season’s villain, Vecna, is gruesome and contributes to the intensity of the season. The special effects are also a highlight.

Season Three is undoubtedly my favorite. It’s set during the summer, so it’s filled with vibrant colors and ‘80s nostalgia. This season is fast-paced and attention catching while having the perfect balance of humor, emotion, and thrill. One of my favorite parts of this season are the new character dynamics: Hopper as Eleven’s father figure, Max and Eleven’s new friendship, and the trio of Dustin, Robin, and Steve. Overall, this season feels like the perfect mix of everything and keeps you entertained the whole time.

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About the Contributor

Emma Wheeler, SB Opinion Editor and Social Media Manager

Emma Wheeler is a third year on the Sugar Beet staff. She is a senior in the Health Academy and wants to attend KU to pursue a career in medical research. She loves spending time with her family and friends. She loves listening to music and doing nails. She is the social media manager and the events manager and for the Sugar Beet. She is also a part of the swim team. Emma is excited to see what her last year on staff brings.