Stranger Things: Upside Down
- Players
- 2-4
- Best withThe player count this game plays best at.
- 4 players
- Play timeHow long a full game runs once everyone knows the rules.
- 60 min
- AgeThe minimum age printed by the publisher.
- 12+
- ComplexityHow demanding the rules are, from 1 (very light) to 5 (very heavy).
- 2.2 / 5
- Year
- 2023
About the game
A cooperative board game for 2-4 players based on the Netflix series Stranger Things, in which players take on the roles of Hawkins' kids battling the horrors of the Upside Down. Choosing a Character and one of two Seasons, each with its own board and unique cards, players move through iconic Hawkins locations, manage Fear, gather Allies, and beat down stacks of tokens representing foes and obstacles. Working together against the clock, the team must clear the threats before time runs out to rescue Will and save the town. Designed by legacy-game veteran Rob Daviau, it channels the show's tense, nostalgic 80s horror atmosphere.
Hobbli's Notes
As a licensed Stranger Things game from designer Rob Daviau, this delivers solid thematic immersion for fans of the show, layering push-your-luck token-beating mechanics with cooperative strategy. The two-season structure adds welcome variety and replay value beyond a single scenario. At 60 minutes with moderate downtime, it moves at a decent clip for a cooperative game. It's best enjoyed by groups who already love the source material, since the theme carries a lot of the experience.
What we like
- Strong thematic tie-in to the popular Stranger Things series.
- Two distinct Seasons add replayability.
- Cooperative play encourages team strategy.
- Designed by respected legacy-game designer Rob Daviau.
Keep in mind
- Licensed theme may hold less appeal for non-fans of the show.
- Cooperative games can suffer from one player 'quarterbacking' the group.
- Moderate downtime (C grade) at higher player counts.
Who it's for
Great for fans of Stranger Things aged 12+ playing in groups of 2-4 who enjoy cooperative, story-driven games.
