Parents' Guide to Stranger Things: The Game

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Common Sense Media Review

Paul Semel By Paul Semel , based on child development research. How do we rate?

age 14+

Engaging old-school adventure made for '80s nostalgia fans.

Parents Need to Know

Why Age 14+?

Any Positive Content?

Parent and Kid Reviews

age 5+

Based on 1 parent review

age 9+

Based on 13 kid reviews

Kids say the game is a fun and challenging experience that appeals to both fans and non-fans of the series, though some find it difficult. While there are a few mild expletives and cartoon violence, most reviewers agree it’s suitable for older children, and the retro design adds charm to the gameplay.

  • fun gameplay
  • suitable for teens
  • mild violence
  • challenging levels
  • appealing design
Summarized with AI

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What's It About?

Set after the events of the first season -- and possibly during the time of season two -- STRANGER THINGS: THE GAME has you exploring the town, the lab, and the mysterious realm known as The Upside Down. This gets handled by activating every switch, pressing every button, and attacking every guard who'd rather you not do these things. Players will also switch between characters from the show, each with his or her own abilities and equipment, to bypass difficult sections and accomplish goals.

Is It Any Good?

Our review:
Parents say ( 1 ):
Kids say ( 13 ):

Though created to promote the second season of the Netflix show, this clever, old-school-style adventure game actually stands on its own. Set after season one (and possibly during the upcoming second season), Stranger Things: The Game has you exploring various locations as different people from the show. Though fittingly, it's all done in the style of an '80s adventure game; it's very similar to the original The Legend of Zelda. That's why this has an aerial perspective, pixelated graphics, and simplistic mechanics and combat. But while this may be old school, it's no old fool, as the game is rather clever in how you have to solve complex situational problems. Oh, and if that's not challenging enough, there's an option that will make this as unforgiving as, well, an '80s adventure game. In fact, the only downside is that people who don't remember the '80s, because they weren't born yet, may not appreciate the old-school aesthetics and mechanics. But then, they probably wouldn't appreciate the TV show either. For those who do, though, Stranger Things: The Game is a real fun blast from the past.

Talk to Your Kids About ...

  • Families can talk about marketing and promotion. This game was made to promote a TV show, but do you think it's effective? Do you think you can enjoy the game and not watch the show?

  • Talk about helping people. In the game, you put your life on the line to help others, but why is this a good thing?

  • Discuss using the right tool for the job. In the game, you switch between characters, and each has unique abilities. Why is it important to recognize when to use the right tool for the job?

App Details

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