Hit Netflix original “Stranger Things” released the first part of their fourth season on Friday, May 27. It was released overnight, at 3 a.m. ET. The first part included the first seven episodes, while the second part, coming out July 1, will have the remaining two.

Season four was originally set to release in 2020, but due to COVID-19 the season had been delayed almost two years. But believe me, it was worth the wait. The Duffer Brothers delivered yet another nail biting, edge of your seat, horror filled season. 

The season includes four main plot lines: The California crew finding El, Hopper in Russia, El trying to get her powers back and the Hawkins kids in the fight against Vecna. 

While all were interesting, the problems in Hawkins put this season over the top. The new villain Vecna, is cursing teens with past trauma, eventually leading them to their death. With mysterious clocks and ambiguous houses, Vecna is nothing but creepy. 

The development of Vecna is done really well throughout the season. The Duffer Brothers do not give too much away too fast, which leaves the viewers on the edge of their seats wanting more. With that being said, it takes a couple episodes to get really into the plot. The beginning is still action packed, but I would say it’s lacking the excitement and familiarity the fans know and love. 

My personal favorite parts of the season was watching all the characters develop. New friendships and interactions take place which adds a nice light hearted and humorous atmosphere to distract from some of the horror. In addition to friendships, there are several hints that two ex-couples on the show have a chance at rekindling some old flames, which makes almost every fan excited. 

Episode seven tied in all these aspects and brought many plot twists and cliffhangers leaving the fans waiting for the finale. 

Will El get her powers back? Do Steve and Nancy get back together? Do Hopper and Joyce make it out alive? I think I speak for most “Stranger Things” fans when I say July 1 can’t come soon enough.