Stranger Things and Dungeons & Dragons: The Rise of Hellfire

Title: Stranger Things and Dungeons & Dragons: The Rise of Hellfire

ISBN: 9781506753188

Price: $19.99

Publisher/Year: Dark Horse, 2025

Artist: Diego Galindo

Writer: Jody Houser, Eric Campbell

Rating: 4.5/5

Stranger Things: The Rise of Hellfire is a fantastic expansion of the Stranger Things universe, offering fans a deeper look into one of the show's most charismatic side characters: Eddie Munson. This trade paperback delivers exactly what longtime viewers crave—heart, humor, and a dose of Hawkins-level darkness—while carving out its own identity as a sharply written, character-driven story.

What makes this book shine is how authentically it captures Eddie’s voice. His larger-than-life personality, love for metal, and outsider perspective are all front and center, but the story also dives into his vulnerabilities in a way the show only hinted at. The result is a surprisingly emotional origin tale that helps explain how the Hellfire Club became the safe haven it is, and why Eddie cares so deeply for the misfits who find their way into it.

The writing balances nostalgia with fresh storytelling, weaving in the series’ signature mix of supernatural intrigue and small-town anxiety without ever feeling like a retread. The artwork is another standout—dynamic, expressive, and full of visual nods to the Stranger Things world. Panels are packed with energy, making the tabletop gaming sequences feel as epic as any Upside Down showdown.

One memorable sequence: early in a campaign, Eddie’s character — a half-orc named Relgar — takes a brutal hit trying to protect a teammate from goblins. Then, with a critical hit (a “natural 20” roll), he turns the tide, wiping out the threat. That moment isn’t just about dice-luck — it’s framed as the moment Eddie realizes he’s found a place where he can belong, “a camaraderie of weirdos where he can be himself.” 

The book doesn’t shy away from social pressures in their (fictional) Hawkins High environment: rumors about Eddie’s reputation make some like Lucas worry that joining the Hellfire Club might hurt their standing — e.g., Lucas worries about his chances of making the basketball team if he’s seen associating with the “weird kids.” 

But when the dice roll poorly, when the stakes are high, Eddie’s true character “shines through.” He becomes less a social outcast or stereotype, and more the glue that holds the group together — proving that sometimes, friendship and loyalty are stronger than reputation or fears.

Whether you’re a dedicated Stranger Things fan or just enjoy well-crafted character stories, The Rise of Hellfire is a rewarding read. It enriches the lore, deepens a beloved character, and delivers a satisfying, heartfelt adventure that feels perfectly at home in the Stranger Things canon.

As a fan of both Stranger Things and Dungeons & Dragons, I absolutely loved this trade and feel that it's a wonderful read for anyone who has an interest in Dungeons & Dragons.