Netflix Releases Animated Stranger Things Spinoff Set Between Seasons 2 and 3
Netflix has launched Stranger Things: Tales From ‘85, an animated series depicting events in Hawkins involving the main cast of kids. The show features plant-like creatures, a mysterious green goo, and a new character named Nikki. It forms part of Netflix's broader efforts to expand its major franchises through spinoffs and follow-ups.
Substrate placeholder — needs reviewNetflix released Stranger Things: Tales From ‘85, a spinoff of the Stranger Things series, on April 23, 2026. The animated series shows events involving the main cast of kids between seasons 2 and 3 of Stranger Things, set in Hawkins. It features plant-like creatures influenced by the Upside Down and a mysterious green goo, along with a new character named Nikki, a tinkerer who outfits the team with handmade weapons.
The series includes references to She-Ra: Princess of Power to explain plot points, scenes similar to those in It, green goo resembling elements from Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, and a Ghostbusters-style weapon. The Verge reported these details in an article published on April 23, 2026, at 2:30 PM UTC.
The article was written by Andrew Webster, an entertainment editor at The Verge covering streaming, virtual worlds, and Pokémon video games.
Andrew Webster joined The Verge in 2012 and has written over 4,000 stories. ' This approach includes multiple expansions of popular shows. Netflix released a reality series follow-up to Squid Game.
The Witcher was one of Netflix’s premiere shows. Blood Origin is a prequel to The Witcher on Netflix, featuring Michelle Yeoh as a sword-wielding elf. Queen Charlotte is a prequel to Bridgerton on Netflix.
A spinoff of Wednesday is in development at Netflix. Netflix’s live-action adaptation of One Piece is getting a third season.
Key Facts
Story Timeline
6 events- 2026-04-23
Netflix released Stranger Things: Tales From ‘85
1 sourceThe Verge - 2026-04-23
The Verge published article on Stranger Things: Tales From ‘85 by Andrew Webster at 2:30 PM UTC
1 sourceThe Verge - unspecified recent
Netflix released a reality series follow-up to Squid Game
1 sourceThe Verge - unspecified recent
Netflix released a mobile game follow-up to Squid Game
1 sourceThe Verge - unspecified
Andrew Webster joined The Verge in 2012
1 sourceThe Verge - unspecified
Netflix executives described their franchise strategy as 'building a universe.'
1 sourceThe Verge
Potential Impact
- 01
Potential increase in Netflix subscriber engagement due to new Stranger Things content
- 02
Cultural references in the series may boost nostalgia-driven viewership
- 03
Expansion of Netflix's franchise portfolio may influence streaming market competition
- 04
Ongoing franchise building might affect Netflix's content production budget allocation
- 05
Viewer interest in animated spinoffs could lead to more similar projects from Netflix
Transparency Panel
Related Stories
EuronewsWorld Urban Forum 2026 Draws 57,000 Participants from 176 Countries
The 13th World Urban Forum concluded with discussions on housing, climate resilience and urban governance. Organisers reported that the sessions informed future strategic priorities.
theverge.comTrump Mobile website still lists T1 phone as American-made
The product page for the T1 phone continues to describe the device as American-made. The Verge reported that the site may conflict with FTC advertising rules. The phone was announced in June 2025.
France 24EU Discusses Readiness for Artificial Intelligence Changes
A France 24 program examined whether European Union policies can address the effects of artificial intelligence. The discussion covered potential impacts across daily life and economic sectors.