Science fiction has long been a goldmine for television, delivering some of the most imaginative and unforgettable stories ever told. Netflix's Stranger Things is a crown jewel of the genre, blending '80s nostalgia, Dungeons & Dragons, and coming-of-age drama into a cultural phenomenon. But its massive success has cast a long shadow, leaving many equally brilliant sci-fi series overlooked. Whether you're craving more parallel dimension conspiracies, small-town mysteries, or meditative retrofuturism, these seven shows are essential viewing for any Stranger Things fan.
1. 'Tales from the Loop' (2020)
Based on the stunning art book by Swedish artist Simon Stålenhag, Prime Video's Tales from the Loop is a rare gem: a TV show inspired by paintings. This slow-burning anthology series is set in a quiet, retrofuturistic town drenched in '80s aesthetics, much like Hawkins. But where Stranger Things thrives on action and high stakes, Tales from the Loop leans into meditation and emotion. Each episode explores a different character's encounter with a mysterious underground machine, weaving a deeply human story about loss, connection, and wonder. It's not for those who need fast-paced thrills, but for fans of thoughtful, atmospheric sci-fi, it's a masterpiece.
2. 'Haven' (2010–2015)
Loosely adapted from Stephen King's The Colorado Kid, this Canadian-American co-production is one of the most underrated sci-fi shows of the 2010s. Like Stranger Things, Haven revolves around a small town plagued by supernatural phenomena. While it follows a monster-of-the-week format rather than a tight serialized arc, its atmospheric charm and King-inspired weirdness make it a cozy watch for fans of the Hawkins crew. If you love the Stephen King vibes in Stranger Things, check out six Stephen King books that capture that same magic.
3. 'Archive 81' (2022)
Executive-produced by horror maestro James Wan, Archive 81 is a Netflix miniseries that blends sci-fi, horror, and noir into a Lovecraftian puzzle. The story follows an archivist hired to restore a collection of damaged videotapes, only to uncover a government conspiracy involving parallel dimensions. Sound familiar? It's a darker, more mature take on the interdimensional themes that Stranger Things explores. Though it was canceled after one season, it remains a cult favorite for those who want a scarier, more immersive experience. For more on the Duffer Brothers' next moves, read about their 2028 Paramount film debut.
4. 'The OA' (2016–2019)
Perhaps the most ambitious sci-fi show Netflix ever produced, The OA is a mind-bending journey that defies easy categorization. It follows a blind woman who returns after seven years with her sight restored and a strange story to tell. Like Stranger Things, it weaves together alternate dimensions, a tight-knit group of misfits, and a sense of wonder that borders on the spiritual. Though it was canceled on a cliffhanger, its two seasons are a must-watch for anyone who loves bold, emotional storytelling.
5. 'Alice in Borderland' (2020–2022)
This Japanese survival thriller takes the sci-fi genre to a deadly extreme. A group of friends is transported to an empty, game-filled version of Tokyo where they must compete in life-or-death challenges. While Stranger Things has its share of monsters, Alice in Borderland amps up the tension with psychological games and high-stakes action. It's a perfect pick for fans who want a more intense, fast-paced sci-fi experience with a similar focus on friendship and survival.
6. 'The Boys' (2019–2026)
Though some debate whether superhero stories count as sci-fi, The Boys is undeniably a genre-bending satire that uses superpowers to skewer politics, celebrity, and corporate greed. Like Stranger Things, it had a divisive final season, but its earlier seasons are among the most subversive and entertaining TV of the decade. It's gorier, funnier, and more cynical than the Hawkins saga, but it shares a love for character-driven chaos. For a lighter teen-focused alternative, check out six teen shows that outdo Stranger Things in rewatchability.
7. 'Dark' (2017–2020)
This German masterpiece is often called the Stranger Things for adults, and for good reason. Dark is a complex, time-traveling saga set in a small town where a child's disappearance unravels a web of secrets spanning four generations. It's darker, more philosophical, and far more intricate than its American counterpart, but it shares the same core themes of family, loss, and the ripple effects of our choices. If you're ready for a challenge, Dark rewards patient viewers with one of the most satisfying conclusions in sci-fi TV.
These shows prove that Stranger Things isn't the only game in town. Whether you're in the mood for a meditative art piece, a Stephen King-inspired mystery, or a brutal survival game, there's a hidden gem waiting for you. And if you're still craving more Hawkins, don't miss the latest on the Broadway play Stranger Things: The First Shadow.
