Wizards of the Coast recently introduced two exciting new sets for Dungeons & Dragons: the Starter Set and Stranger Things: Welcome to the Hellfire Club. I had the opportunity to review both during the latest episode of *Pop! Goes the Culture!* Below is a clipped segment from the review where I discuss these sets in detail.
The **Starter Set** aims to make D&D more accessible than ever before. It essentially transforms Dungeons & Dragons into a more conventional tabletop game by lowering the barrier to entry. This is achieved through the inclusion of pre-made characters, cards featuring common spells and items, and multiple maps to guide gameplay. These elements work together to streamline the experience for new players who might feel overwhelmed by traditional D&D setups.
On the other hand, **Stranger Things: Welcome to the Hellfire Club** takes a similar user-friendly approach but adds a distinct Stranger Things theme — or more specifically, an 80s vibe. This set includes character sheets modeled after the characters portrayed in the popular Netflix show, along with a map reflecting the world of their campaign. To enrich the experience further, new monsters like the Demogorgon Dragon have been introduced.
What sets this set apart is its vintage 80s aesthetic, which gives Dungeons & Dragons 5th Edition a unique retro feel. Whether you’re a Stranger Things fan or a newcomer seeking a fresh D&D experience, the Hellfire Club set offers something both nostalgic and engaging.
Both sets showcase Wizards of the Coast’s commitment to welcoming new players while offering something special for longtime fans. If you’re curious about these releases, check out the full review in the latest episode of *Pop! Goes the Culture!*
https://www.shacknews.com/article/146625/dnd-starter-set-stranger-things-review
