Stranger Things returns in animated form with Tales of '85, a new spin–off set between seasons two and three.
Netflix has shared new information about the upcoming animated spin–off, Tales of '85.
Timeline and Setting
The series takes place during the winter of 1985, set between the events of season two and season three of Stranger Things. Familiar locations like the Hawkins Middle School, Hopper's cabin, the arcade and the lab will return, now in an animated format.
Characters And Story
The original group of characters will be featured, including Mike, Eleven, Will, Dustin, Max, Lucas and Hopper. The storyline will introduce a new supernatural threat and expand the world with additional characters, such as Nikki Baxter, a girl with pink hair and a background in building and fixing things. While the exact plot remains a secret, the show is expected to explore a new mystery in Hawkins.
Animation Style
Tales of '85 will use animation with a retro style influenced by classic 80s animated shows. The tone is reportedly lighter and more stylized, which may reflect the younger target audience. This shift in tone is also reflected in the likely use of new voice actors. So far, Netflix has not confirmed whether any of the original cast members will return to voice their characters.
The spin–off is being developed by Eric Robles and animated by Flying Bark Productions, the studio behind Rise of the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles. Executive producers include the Duffer Brothers, Shawn Levy, Dan Cohen and Hilary Leavitt, all of whom have been involved with the main series.
When Will It Release?
The series is set to arrive on Netflix sometime in 2026, though a specific release date has not been confirmed yet. It is still uncertain whether Tales of '85 will be part of the main Stranger Things timeline or stand on its own as a separate story.
Let us know if you're excited for an animated Stranger Things series.