Stranger Things has officially wrapped up, and for many fans, it feels like saying goodbye to an old friend. As the credits rolled on Season 5, the emotional rollercoaster left many feeling nostalgic about Hawkins and the mysterious Upside Down. If you’re struggling to move on from this brilliant series, don’t despair! There are plenty of other shows that capture the same spirit. Here are five TV shows like Stranger Things that you’ll want to binge-watch next.
1. Dark
- Release Date: December 1, 2017
- Director: Baran bo Odar
- Cast: Jonas Gerzabek, Louis Hofmann, Andreas Pietschmann
- Seasons/Episodes: 3/26
- IMDb Rating: 8.7
At first glance, Dark may seem different from Stranger Things, but dig a little deeper. Set in a small town shrouded in mystery with missing children as a central plot point, it resonates with the eerie feel of Hawkins. The show unveils layers of reality, similar to how the Upside Down mirrors our world.
2. Fringe
- Release Date: September 9, 2008
- Directors: J. J. Abrams, Alex Kurtzman
- Cast: Anna Torv, Joshua Jackson, John Noble
- Seasons/Episodes: 5/100
- IMDb Rating: 8.4
If you enjoy Dustin chatting about parallel universes, then Fringe is right up your alley. The series dives into bizarre crimes linked to “fringe science,” exploring the bizarre and unknown. Expect a thrilling mix of alternate dimensions and complex narratives, proving just as captivating as a group of kids standing up to supernatural threats.
3. The Umbrella Academy
- Release Date: February 15, 2019
- Directors: Jeremy Webb, Paco Cabezas
- Cast: Elliot Page, Tom Hopper, David Castañeda
- Seasons/Episodes: 4/36
- IMDb Rating: 7.8
While The Umbrella Academy may not have the same level of fame as Stranger Things, it features an incredible lineup of characters, each with unique superpowers. Following the Hargreeves siblings, who reunite after their father’s death, the show tackles alternate timelines and world-ending scenarios. Sure, the finale left some fans wanting more, but it’s still an engaging watch.
4. Alice In Borderland
- Release Date: December 10, 2020
- Director: Shinsuke Sato
- Cast: Kento Yamazaki, Tao Tsuchiya
- Seasons/Episodes: 3/22
- IMDb Rating: 7.8
If Alice in Borderland isn’t on your watchlist, you’re missing out! This gripping Japanese series places its characters in an alternate dimension filled with deadly games. It shares a haunting mystery akin to that of Stranger Things, although rather than flesh-eating monsters, the suspense comes from survival in twisted challenges.
5. Archive 81
- Release Date: January 14, 2022
- Director: Rebecca Sonnenshine
- Cast: Mamoudou Athie, Dina Shihabi
- Seasons/Episodes: 1/8
- IMDb Rating: 7.3
Compared to Stranger Things, Archive 81 has a slow burn approach, unfolding its mystery with nuance. Centered around Dan Turner, who restores old videotapes revealing bizarre and occult happenings, the series invites viewers to question reality itself. It rewards patient viewers with unexpected twists that will keep you glued to the screen.
What are some shows similar to Stranger Things?
Shows like Dark, Fringe, The Umbrella Academy, Alice In Borderland, and Archive 81 resonate well with Stranger Things fans due to their themes of mystery, the supernatural, and unique characters.
Are there any good family-friendly shows like Stranger Things?
If you’re looking for family-friendly options, consider TV shows like The Goonies or Gravity Falls, which share adventure and supernatural elements reminiscent of Stranger Things.
What makes Stranger Things such a beloved show?
Stranger Things captivates audiences with its nostalgic 80s vibes, rich character development, and an engaging blend of horror, adventure, and friendship.
Is there a continuation of Stranger Things or similar spin-off shows?
While Stranger Things has concluded, there are discussions about potential spin-off series within the same universe, which should thrill fans.
So there you have it! As you venture into these captivating worlds, feel free to share your thoughts on which show makes the best successor to Stranger Things. What’s the next one you’ll choose to watch?