Some shows come and go, but Stranger Things is a phenomenon. Every season has left fans gasping, cheering, and excited. Waiting for the countdown of the finale season has fans buzzing to no end. With twists that drop jaws, emotional moments, and action-packed scenes, every season had something to offer. But to be honest, some of the seasons did it better than the others. 

Just in time for the next exciting season to arrive, it is time to look back and rank every season. Which one flew high? And which one stumbled? Here is a look back through the highs, lows, and everything in between of this fan-favorite Netflix series.

  Season 2 of the series Stranger Things hits that right spot of balance between developing the storylines and deepening the characters, which is why it remains a favorite among fans, though not exactly reaching the heights of the later seasons. The season focuses on developing the storyline, its exploration of Upside Down's growing influence paved the way for the story to grow. However, it is really the character development that makes this season stand out. Steve Harrington's turn from high school villain to unlikely hero, with his sweetly developed relationship with Dustin, is perhaps the most heartwarming feature of the season.  

However, some fans felt that some episodes were dragging on. While some fans enjoyed the season for going into Eleven's backstory, others thought it interrupted the main narrative flow. But, despite some slower moments, the overall season sets a good foundation for the series. 

Wicked ‘Stranger Things’ Season 5 Theory Has Fans Negotiating Max’s Death

  In its essence, season 3 of Stranger Things, did combine the thrills with a much deeper emotional connection when it came to the relationship between the characters and more. The whole season was portrayed very well, and very aesthetically, but in comparison to its stronger action-packed counterparts, it moves a little down in the line.   

  The third season stands out for its character and emotional depth, for example how Steve Harrington evolves from high school heartthrob to this beloved "Mom Steve" and guides the way for the younger characters. Apart from its emotional depth, the season also brought in spine-chilling suspense acting as a hooking filler for fans to stay with the series as they prepped for the next season.   

Stranger Things' fourth season stands strong with its engaging storyline, increased tension, and character development. All of which make it a great chapter in the Stranger Things saga. The standout piece of this season is its deep dive into the world of dark mysteries, the strong action, and looming suspense at every turn. And, of course, the introduction of Vecna whose character, and evil presence bring huge stakes for the friends to tackle.   

  From the pacing of the season to its character development the season has been highly commended by critics and loved by fans as you get to see the group in action like never before! With the evolution of the series to this point, you might think the hype would have died down, but no with this season the fanbase not only became bigger but it also set higher expectations for Stranger Things, season 5.  

The season that started it all brought the perfect blend of mystery, nostalgia, and character-driven storytelling, setting the bar very high for the following season. Rolling back the clock to that summer of 2016, starting with the disappearance of a boy in the small town of Hawkins, Indiana; The first moment of suspense that led to a mind-blowing story that grew on audiences near and far. The atmospheric setting of the season, coupled with its heavy soundtrack, took viewers to a whole new world filled with sci-fi elements. The strong visuals aside, it was the gripping storyline that kept viewers at the edge of their seats, wanting more. 

Stranger Things, season 1, not only hit the jackpot with the storyline, and theatrics but also featured a talented young cast, including Millie Bobbie Brown who brought great depth to the story right from the start. From start to finish, the season balanced supernatural elements, with everyday struggles of adolescence, sci-fi factors, action, comedy, and a cliffhanger so good that it had fans piling up to watch what was coming next!  

And there you have it, an ultimate ranking of every Stranger Things season! Each brought its magic in one way or another and as fans gear up for Stranger Things 5, one thing is clear- this Netflix show has set the benchmark for what it means to keep fans hooked.

Fans Demand Some 'Stranger Things 5' Drop, With the Wait Making Them Do Some Very Random Things

Do you agree with our picks? Did your favorite season take the lead, or do you think we got it all wrong? Let us know in the comments below!