The release of Part 1 of Stranger Things 5 marks the beginning of the end for the beloved Netflix series. It’s a fact that both die-hard fans and casual viewers dread. And so it makes perfect sense they would want something to fill the void. However, it may not be so simple. Stranger Things occupies a unique position in the television landscape. It’s an enticing blend of 80s nostalgia and sci-fi horror led by a lovable ragtag group of kids.
These aspects have allowed the Duffer Brothers’ show to become an integral part of the zeitgeist. As you depart Hawkins and say farewell to demogorgons, the Upside Down, and Vecna, the path ahead may not be so clear. There’s nothing quite like Stranger Things, but here are ten scintillating sci-fi series that come close.
10. Legion
Based on the Marvel Comics character of the same name, Legion tells the story of David Haller, a powerful mutant who was misdiagnosed as schizophrenic. David must learn to control his newfound abilities whilst evading the government and fending off an ancient malevolent entity. Legion isn’t afraid to go for it when it comes to depicting superpowers. That freedom allows for showstopping sequences that stick with you.
9. Strange Days at Blake Holsey High
The charming early 2000s series details the paranormal adventures of five students and their teacher at a boarding school. The low-budget CGI and monster-of-the-week narrative can’t help but stir up warm and fuzzy feelings. You’ll want to watch this on Saturday mornings with a big bowl of cereal.
8. The OA
After a seven-year disappearance, the blind Prairie Johnson miraculously returns home with her vision fully restored and refuses to say where she’s been for the last seven years. The OA doesn’t shy away from hitting emotional beats. In fact, it’s the very core of the story. More than a tearjerker, this one may elicit full-on sobs.
7. Dark
The tense German serial takes place in a quaint town that follows fractured families, unravels decades-old conspiracies, and questions the nature of humanity. Dark’s narrative is incredibly dense, but don’t let that deter you from pressing play on the Netflix series. The multilayered plot and paradoxes give you something to ruminate on long after the credits roll.
6. 1899
From the creators of Dark comes the lesser-known but just as captivating follow-up. The multinational and multilingual tale tells of a band of immigrants traveling aboard a steamship who encounter a curious vessel adrift on the high seas. The mystery here is a slow burn, but the pacing invites the audience to join in on the investigation as the very fabric of the story begins to unravel.
5. Black Mirror
Each episode of the British anthology series explores the pitfalls of technology and the failings of the people who use it. Like Stranger Things, Black Mirror has carved out a legacy. The show’s grim tone, sprawling yet self-contained narratives, powerful performances, and strict adherence to technological themes are the stylistic codes that make up its DNA.
4. Haven
Following a lead on a murder investigation, FBI agent Audrey Parker finds herself in a strange town harboring even stranger secrets. Haven is a relic of the 2010s network television sci-fi craze. Therefore, it’s not boundary pushing, but it is entertaining nevertheless. And sometimes a bit of entertainment is all you need.
3. I Am Not Okay With This
It would be rather foolish of me to not include a show that shares the same producers as Stranger Things. Being a teenager is tough. You’ve got to deal with parents who don’t understand you, first loves, and puberty. Unfortunately for Sydney, she has to add superpowers to the list. I Am Not Okay With This is an all-you-can-eat teen angst buffet.
2. Dead Boy Detectives
In Dead Boy Detectives, a dynamic duo consisting of two deceased teenage boys investigates supernatural crimes. A prime example of a true YA series, Dead Boy Detectives is perfect for the edgy teeny-bopper in your life or the Gen Z adult who longs for a taste of “the good old days.”
1. The Society
High school students bound for an extended field trip are unexpectedly forced to return home. However, the town they return to is devoid of all adults, and there is no way out. I will admit the sci-fi element in The Society is more of an afterthought, but it’s just enough to make the list. That being said, the intrigue, debauchery, and general eeriness make for a fun watch.
Time heals all wounds. Though the aforementioned shows may not be able to cure the pain that comes with saying goodbye to such an iconic series, they should be just enough to make it sting a little less.