Stranger Things: Tales From ‘85, the newly announced animated spin-off in the Stranger Things universe, is drawing early buzz and plenty of mockery even before its release. While Stranger Things Season 5 Vol. 1 dominated Netflix’s global charts after dropping on November 26 and 27, the upcoming animated prequel has sparked a very different kind of conversation online. Here is everything we know about Stranger Things: Tales From ‘85’ release date and why the animated spin-off is criticized.
Also Read: Stranger Things release schedule for US: When will Stranger Things season 5 volume 2 arrive on Netflix?
Stranger Things: Tales From ‘85 is set to debut on Netflix in 2026. The animated spin-off’s trailer, announced earlier this month with a teaser.
Created by The Duffer Brothers in collaboration with Eric Robles, the series aims to reimagine Hawkins through a nostalgic animated lens. Sharing the first teaser and concept art, Ross Duffer emphasized the creative freedom the team gains with animation: “With animation there’s really no limits… Eric and his team can just go wild … and they have.”
Robles added that the show will offer a fresh perspective on the iconic town: “Get your flashlight, get your backpack, because it’s going to be amazing.”
Also Read: Stranger Things isn’t ending at season 5, the Upside Down is set to return in a way you cannot imagine
Despite excitement for the expansion of the Stranger Things universe, the teaser sparked polarized reactions, largely due to its 3D CGI animation style.
Many fans expected a visual approach closer to authentic ’80s cartoons, given the show’s title and themes. Instead, the use of modern CGI prompted confusion and criticism across social media. “Why would you choose 3D animation when you want to evoke a feeling of an '80s cartoon?” one YouTube user asked, receiving over 3,100 likes.
Another added, “Have the Duffer brothers ever seen an ’80s cartoon?”
Others argued the 3D style still fits the creators’ vision, with one commenter noting, “It doesn't have to look like an '80s cartoon. They wanted the show as a whole to feel like an '80s cartoon.”
Some fans, including animators, defended the choice, saying 3D animation offers more range and creative possibilities. Still, for a segment of the audience, the style shift feels at odds with the promised retro tone.
What is Stranger Things: Tales From ’85?
It is an upcoming animated spin-off series set in the Stranger Things universe, revisiting Hawkins through an ’80s-style adventure lens.
When will Stranger Things: Tales From ’85 be released?
Netflix has confirmed the series will premiere in 2026. A specific month or date has not been announced yet.
Why are fans mocking the show already?
Many fans expected a hand-drawn or retro animation style to match the ’80s theme. The CGI look shown in the teaser has sparked criticism for “not feeling like an ’80s cartoon.”
Also Read: Stranger Things release schedule for US: When will Stranger Things season 5 volume 2 arrive on Netflix?
When Will Stranger Things: Tales From ‘85 be released?
Stranger Things: Tales From ‘85 is set to debut on Netflix in 2026. The animated spin-off’s trailer, announced earlier this month with a teaser.
Created by The Duffer Brothers in collaboration with Eric Robles, the series aims to reimagine Hawkins through a nostalgic animated lens. Sharing the first teaser and concept art, Ross Duffer emphasized the creative freedom the team gains with animation: “With animation there’s really no limits… Eric and his team can just go wild … and they have.”
Robles added that the show will offer a fresh perspective on the iconic town: “Get your flashlight, get your backpack, because it’s going to be amazing.”
Also Read: Stranger Things isn’t ending at season 5, the Upside Down is set to return in a way you cannot imagine
Why Stranger Things animated show being mocked online?
Despite excitement for the expansion of the Stranger Things universe, the teaser sparked polarized reactions, largely due to its 3D CGI animation style.
Many fans expected a visual approach closer to authentic ’80s cartoons, given the show’s title and themes. Instead, the use of modern CGI prompted confusion and criticism across social media. “Why would you choose 3D animation when you want to evoke a feeling of an '80s cartoon?” one YouTube user asked, receiving over 3,100 likes.
Another added, “Have the Duffer brothers ever seen an ’80s cartoon?”
Others argued the 3D style still fits the creators’ vision, with one commenter noting, “It doesn't have to look like an '80s cartoon. They wanted the show as a whole to feel like an '80s cartoon.”
Some fans, including animators, defended the choice, saying 3D animation offers more range and creative possibilities. Still, for a segment of the audience, the style shift feels at odds with the promised retro tone.
FAQs about Stranger Things: Tales From ’85
What is Stranger Things: Tales From ’85?
It is an upcoming animated spin-off series set in the Stranger Things universe, revisiting Hawkins through an ’80s-style adventure lens.
When will Stranger Things: Tales From ’85 be released?
Netflix has confirmed the series will premiere in 2026. A specific month or date has not been announced yet.
Why are fans mocking the show already?
Many fans expected a hand-drawn or retro animation style to match the ’80s theme. The CGI look shown in the teaser has sparked criticism for “not feeling like an ’80s cartoon.”
