The highly anticipated Stranger Things DLC for Minecraft has just launched, bringing the eerie world of Hawkins, the Upside Down, and iconic characters from Netflix's hit series into the blocky universe. Developed by Blockception and published by Minecraft, this DLC transforms the game into an open-world adventure packed with quests inspired by all four seasons of the show. Perfect timing for fans ahead of the series finale, it costs 1510 Minecoins (about $8.99 USD) and includes 1 adventure world and 49 skins.

Whether you're reliving Eleven's telekinetic battles or hunting Demogorgons, this guide covers everything from purchase to pro tips.

Requirements and Compatibility

  • Edition: Minecraft Bedrock Edition only (Windows 10/11, iOS, Android, Xbox, PlayStation, Chromebook).
  • Not Available On: Nintendo Switch (due to optimization issues).
  • Mobile Devices: Requires at least 6GB RAM for smooth performance.
  • Multiplayer: Fully supported - team up with friends as "The Party" for co-op quests.
  • Recommendation: Create a new world to avoid conflicts with existing resource packs, behavior packs, or add-ons.

How to Purchase and Install

  1. Launch Minecraft Bedrock Edition and ensure you're signed in with your Microsoft account (this binds purchases to your profile).
  2. Access the Marketplace: From the main menu, select Marketplace.
  3. Search for "Stranger Things": It should appear at the top under Recently Added. Or use this direct link: Stranger Things DLC (opens in-game).
  4. Buy It: Click the 1510 Minecoins button. If you lack coins, purchase them via the store (packs start at 320 coins for $1.99).
  5. Download and Activate:
    • After purchase, hit Download.
    • Create a new world and enable the DLC under Resource Packs and Behavior Packs (it auto-activates).
  6. Spawn In: You'll start in 1980s Hawkins - ready to explore!

Pro Tip: Log in before buying to avoid account mix-ups.

Claim Your Free Bonus: Hellfire Club T-Shirt

Head to the in-game Dressing Room (accessible from the world spawn or menu) for a free Hellfire Club T-shirt skin item. Available once per account until January 25, 2026, 10 AM PT - grab it fast!

Characters and Abilities

Switch characters anytime during play to use their unique powers for puzzles and combat. Here's a rundown of key ones:

CharacterKey Ability HighlightsBest For
ElevenTelekinesis (lift/move objects, combat)Puzzles, boss fights
MikeStandard explorer with party leadershipGeneral exploration
DustinTech-savvy (gadgets, codes?)Hacking/puzzle-solving
WillUpside Down intuitionNavigation in dark areas
Dr. BrennerLab access (panels, experiments)Hawkins Lab quests
SuzieCode-breakingRiddles and ciphers
EddieD&D campaigns (summon allies?)Multiplayer strategies
VecnaMind control (enemies turn on each other)Advanced combat

(Abilities are show-inspired; experiment to master them!)

Gameplay Overview

Dive into four chapter-based quests, each recreating a season's major events:

  • Explore Iconic Locations: Hawkins town, Mirkwood forest, Starcourt Mall, Hawkins Lab, The Upside Down (parallel dimension with horrors).
  • Core Loop:
    1. Follow story quests (trace clues, talk to NPCs).
    2. Solve puzzles using character abilities (e.g., Eleven lifts gates).
    3. Battle mobs: Demogorgons, Mind Flayer, Vecna (grandfather clock boss fight).
    4. Complete objectives to "evolve" the town and unlock next chapters.
  • Modes: Adventure-focused with optional survival/creative elements. Collectibles scattered for extras.
  • 1980s Vibes: Ride bikes, play arcades, eat waffles, use walkie-talkies.

Progress evolves Hawkins from normal to Upside Down-infested chaos.

Essential Tips and Tricks

  • Party Up: Multiplayer shines - assign roles (e.g., one as Eleven for powers, others for support).
  • Switch Characters Often: Stuck on a puzzle? Swap to the right hero.
  • Hunt Collectibles: Grab oddities for stat boosts and abilities (e.g., speed zoom).
  • Boss Strategies:
    • Demogorgons: Dodge and flank.
    • Mind Flayer: Use ranged attacks.
    • Vecna: Exploit mind control on minions.
  • Performance: Enable "Vibrant Visuals" for stunning Upside Down effects.
  • Newbies: Watch trailers or early YouTube playthroughs for visual quest guides (search "Minecraft Stranger Things DLC walkthrough").
  • Avoid Conflicts: No other packs in your new world!