Stranger Things: Tales from ’85 premieres tomorrow, April 23, on Netflix. The new animated series expands the narrative universe created by Duffer Brothers, introducing an original story set between seasons two and three of the main show.
With this first spin-off, Netflix brings audiences back to the town of Hawkins, preserving the unmistakable 1980s atmosphere that made the franchise a global phenomenon.
A return to Hawkins with new mysteries
The story unfolds during the winter of 1985, a moment of apparent calm for the characters. However, this fragile balance is quickly disrupted by a new threat connected to the Upside Down.
At the center of the narrative are the familiar protagonists – Eleven, Mike, Dustin, Lucas, Will, and Max – who once again find themselves facing paranormal events and working together to protect their town.
A visual style inspired by 1980s animation
From a visual standpoint, Tales from ’85 draws clear inspiration from classic 1980s cartoons, blending nostalgic elements with contemporary animation techniques. This stylistic choice reinforces the identity of the series while remaining consistent with the broader Stranger Things universe.
The project is led by showrunner Eric Robles, while the Duffer Brothers serve as executive producers, ensuring continuity with the original series.
Voice cast and new creatures
For this animated adaptation, the characters are voiced by a completely new cast rather than the original live-action actors. Despite the change, the performances are designed to closely reflect the tone and personality of the established characters, maintaining a sense of continuity and familiarity.
Alongside the returning characters, the series introduces new figures and previously unseen threats from the Upside Down. Among them are the “Vine Dog,” a larger and more imposing variation of the Demogorgon, and the “Gourd Horde,” a disturbing creature resembling a possessed pumpkin. These additions expand the show’s mythology and enhance its fantastical dimension.
A new chapter in the Stranger Things universe
With Stranger Things: Tales from ’85, Netflix opens a new chapter in the Hawkins saga, offering an original story set within a key moment of the timeline. The animated spin-off expands the franchise while staying true to its core identity.
The release marks an important moment for fans, who are invited to revisit the world of the Upside Down through a new visual format. Combining 1980s nostalgia, new creatures, and the return of beloved characters, the series positions itself as a fresh yet familiar extension of one of Netflix’s most iconic titles.
Photo Credits: Rafal Werczynski – Unsplash
