Stranger Things - The franchise recently grew with Stranger Things: Histórias de 85, an animated extension set between seasons 2 and 3 that returns to a winter‑1985 Hawkins and raises the stakes as the Upside Down’s influence resurfaces, giving fans a darker, visually freer take on familiar heroes.
- In short: The new animated series reunites Eleven, Mike, Will, Lucas, Dustin and Max — introduces Nikki — and uses animation to expand supernatural threats in Hawkins.
Understand the dynamics of the new Hawkins chapter
The series places the action squarely between the second and third seasons, restoring the show’s classic 1985 setting and the group’s core dynamics while opening the door to bolder creature design and set pieces. See the official Netflix series page for the main franchise on the platform: Netflix page.
That setting means continuity matters: the plot picks up when the group is still dealing with lingering effects of the Upside Down, so the new threats arrive with established emotional consequences for the characters.
"The story takes place exactly between the events of the second and the third season, a moment when the group still tries to cope with the effects of the Upside Down on the town."
Context and impact for viewers and the franchise
For long‑time fans, the timing is deliberate — reviving the “best moment” of the series’ narrative and nostalgia while granting animators freedom to imagine creatures and scenarios that would be harder or more costly in live action. Stranger Things first premiered in 2016 and has since become one of Netflix’s defining originals, so each expansion affects both the lore and future expectations for the franchise.
The voice cast helps bridge the eras: Brooklyn Norstedt as Eleven, Jolie Hoang‑Rappaport as Max, Luca Diaz as Mike, and Elisha Williams as Lucas, alongside new character Nikki who joins the investigation. Early fan reaction highlights the animation’s ability to keep the original tone while offering fresh visual thrills.
What do you think? Will you be watching the animated spin‑off? For more details, check out our specialized section.