How Many Episodes of Stranger Things 3 You’ll Be Binging

How much more supernatural horror can poor Hawkins, IN endure? At least eight more episodes it seems. Netflix announced Stranger Things 3 will return to the season 1 format of an eight-episode run.

With season 2 of Stranger Things increasing to nine episodes, there was speculation that season 3 would tack on another. Instead, Netflix has decided to cut back. Because the show is streaming and perfect for binge-watching, the episodes don’t compete with commercials. This allows for flexible run times on each episode.

The episodes from season 1 clocked in between 42 and 51 minutes. Season 2 added a little more action with the finale topping out just over 60 minutes. Netflix knows that they aren’t restricted to the traditional 13-episode seasons, nor hard and fast runtimes. While there isn’t any concrete data for viewership, Stranger Things is definitely one of the most valuable properties on the streaming service.

Collider reported that Stranger Things 3 will bring back favorite characters, but will also follow a new plotline. The kids will be moving into high school, and while Demogorgons are a threat, the show does a great job of interweaving real issues teenagers face. Pure speculation, but there’s nothing worse in high school than a beloved friend moving away. There’s also sure to be more relationship drama as season 2 ended in an adorable prom, but not everyone had the date they hoped for.

Poor Will Byers has been through a lot. Maybe we can have someone else take more of the heat this time? We hope he’s free from the Upside Down once and for all.