Reviews of Stranger Things Season 5, Volume 2 are mixed, with some outlets finding it to be a measured and moving penultimate chapter, while others describe it as dreadful or unsatisfying. Some critics feel that the season's second half did not live up to expectations, with one reason being that it seemed to be setting up for the finale rather than standing on its own. Opinions on the season's quality vary widely, with some praising its excitement and emotion, and others finding it lacking.