The fifth season of “Stranger Things” received the lowest critical rating in the show’s history — viewers were more favorable

Hopes for the final season of Stranger Things were very high, but the first four episodes fell short of expectations for some critics.

On November 27, 2025, Netflix premiered the fifth season of Stranger Things — the concluding chapter of a nearly decade-long saga about the battle against creatures from a parallel world. In the run-up to the release, the Duffer Brothers emphasized that over ten years they had learned from past missteps and aimed to deliver the “perfect” ending to the saga. Those claims pushed anticipation to its peak, yet early reviews indicate the season is not an unequivocal success for all critics.

According to Rotten Tomatoes, the fifth season currently holds an 87% score based on early reviews. While still strong, this is the series’ lowest rating to date: the first season earned 97%, the second 94%, and both the third and fourth seasons scored 89%.

Despite the dip, many reviewers argue the new installment still serves as a fitting conclusion. Critics praise the large-scale set pieces, surprising plot developments, and striking performances.

At the same time, reactions have sometimes been more reserved: some fault the season for an overly somber tone and a decline in originality. It’s worth noting the creators had warned before the premiere that the finale would be darker, and debates about the show’s abundance of 1980s film references and homages have followed it since season one.

Fans, however, have greeted the continuation more warmly. Rotten Tomatoes’ audience score sits at 92%, the second-highest in the show’s history — topped only by the first season’s 96%.

The season’s overall rating can still change, since only the first half has been released. The remaining episodes are scheduled for release on December 26, 2025 and January 1, 2026.

Source: iXBT.games