8 Things in ‘Stranger Things’ That Make Absolutely No Sense

‘Stranger Things’ (2016-2025), created by the Duffer Brothers, has captivated viewers with its blend of 80s vibes, supernatural scares, and heartfelt friendships set in the eerie town of Hawkins, Indiana. The Netflix hit thrives on its mix of monster-hunting adventures and emotional teen drama, making it a cultural juggernaut.

Even with its brilliance, the show has its share of head-scratchers. Across its five seasons, some plot points and character choices feel shaky or outright baffling. Here are eight moments in ‘Stranger Things’ that left me confused, each with its own odd logic or unexplained gaps.

Max’s Convenient Recovery

Max Mayfield, played by Sadie Sink, faces a grim fate in season four, with Vecna breaking her bones and leaving her comatose. Yet, the show hints at her survival without explaining how she escapes near-certain death.

This rushed resolution feels like a cop-out. The emotional weight of her sacrifice is undermined when the show sidesteps any clear explanation for her recovery.

Nancy’s Reckless Gun Use

Nancy Wheeler, portrayed by Natalia Dyer, wields guns confidently in later seasons, blasting at monsters like a seasoned pro. However, her marksmanship skills appear out of nowhere, with no prior training shown.

It’s jarring to see a high school journalist turn sharpshooter overnight. The show could’ve added a quick scene to justify this sudden expertise, but it’s left unexplained.

The Soviet Base Under Hawkins

In season three, a massive Soviet facility operates secretly beneath the Starcourt Mall, complete with soldiers and a giant machine. How this elaborate base was built under a small American town without anyone noticing is absurd.

The logistics of constructing such a complex undetected stretch belief. It feels like the writers prioritized drama over realistic world-building.

Barb’s Forgotten Disappearance

Barb Holland, played by Shannon Purser, vanishes in season one, killed by the Demogorgon. Despite her close friendship with Nancy, her death is barely mourned, and the town moves on quickly.

This lack of closure for a key character feels cold. Barb’s brief memorial in season two doesn’t make up for the show’s rush to sideline her story.

Vecna’s Selective Mind Games

Vecna, the season four villain played by Jamie Campbell Bower, targets teens with trauma, invading their minds with horrifying visions. Yet, he spares main characters like Steve or Robin, who surely have their own emotional baggage.

This picky approach to victims feels inconsistent. The show never clarifies why Vecna’s psychic attacks skip over certain vulnerable characters.

Joyce’s Endless Resources

Joyce Byers, portrayed by Winona Ryder, is a single mom with limited means, yet she funds cross-country trips and international rescues by season three. Her ability to bankroll these adventures is never addressed.

It’s hard to buy that a small-town store clerk has the cash for such feats. A throwaway line about savings or help would’ve grounded this.

The Mind Flayer’s Vague Plan

The Mind Flayer, a shadowy entity from the Upside Down, possesses people and builds monsters, but its ultimate goal remains unclear. Is it world domination or just chaos?

This lack of a defined motive makes the creature less threatening. Without a clear endgame, its actions feel like plot devices rather than a coherent threat.

Dustin’s Radio Range

Dustin Henderson, played by Gaten Matarazzo, uses a homemade radio to communicate across vast distances, even reaching the Upside Down. In reality, 80s walkie-talkies had limited range, especially in other dimensions.

This tech miracle feels like a stretch for a kid’s DIY project. The show leans on this plot convenience without justifying the science.

Which ‘Stranger Things’ plot hole bugs you the most, or did I miss a weird moment? Share your take in the comments!