The highly anticipated final season of Stranger Things has finally begun, but the battle for Hawkins is far from over. Netflix has released only the first four episodes of Season 5, leaving fans on a cliffhanger until Volume 2 arrives on Boxing Day, 26 December 2025.
Will Byers' Shocking Connection to Vecna
One of the most significant revelations in Volume 1 concerns Will Byers, played by Noah Schnapp. The season confirms that Will's connection to the villainous Vecna is deeper and more sinister than previously thought. It is revealed that his initial escape from the Upside Down was actually a part of Vecna's grand scheme.
Throughout these new episodes, Will demonstrates an ability to see through the eyes of Demogorgons and sense their emotions. The climax of Volume 1 sees Vecna paralyse Will during a rescue attempt. In a stunning turn, Will fights back, using his psychic link to command the creatures and save his friends. The moment is punctuated by a tell-tale nosebleed, mirroring Eleven's use of her telekinetic powers, strongly suggesting Will has developed abilities of his own.
The Fate of Holly Wheeler and Max Mayfield
Vecna's new strategy involves targeting the children of Hawkins, beginning with Holly Wheeler, the younger sister of Mike and Nancy. Her imaginary friend, Mr Whatsit, is revealed to be Vecna himself, who is manipulating her and other children. He aims to use their minds to reshape the world, holding Holly captive within his own memories.
Meanwhile, Max Mayfield remains in a coma, but her consciousness is also trapped in Vecna's mindscape. She appears to Holly there, explaining that her brief death in Season Four allowed Vecna to enter the real world. Max discovers a cave that Vecna fears and, upon Holly's arrival, begins formulating a new plan for their escape.
New Threats and Old Faces
The human threat has also evolved. With Dr. Brenner gone, a new antagonist, Dr. Kay (played by Linda Hamilton), has taken charge. Mistakenly believing Eleven is responsible for the missing children, Dr. Kay is hunting her relentlessly. In a shocking twist, she is holding Kali (Eight), a figure from Eleven's past, prisoner.
As the army quarantines Hawkins, our core group of heroes operates in the shadows, facing internal strife, particularly from a grieving Dustin, and the constant threat of Vecna's expanding influence. With Volume 2 set for release on 26 December 2025, and a final Volume 3 expected on 31 January 2026, the stage is set for an epic conclusion to the beloved series.
