Stranger Things’ Conformity Gate Explained

What are the chances that Netflix and the Duffer Brothers rolled out the Stranger Things series finale only to pull an old switcheroo and drop another episode on us? To many fans, it is looking more and more like a 2nd Christmas is coming. Is Netflix dropping the “real” final episode on January 7th? Welcome to Conformity Gate.

What Exactly Is Stranger Things’ Conformity Gate?

According to a growing number of fans across the interweb, Conformity Gate is a theory that the entire Stranger Things season epilogue was just a Vecna-crafted illusion, a psychic trap meant to put the characters, and all of us, into a false sense of closure and peace. In other words, Vecna may not be done with Hawkins, or us.

Stranger Things Conformity Gate Theory

The Graduation Imagery

During the Hawkins High School graduation, many characters are seen standing with an oddly familiar pose.  The stance mirrors how Vecna-controlled characters were standing with their hands clasped in front of them.

Many fans are bothered by the orange graduation gowns, looking more like prison jump suits. Are they under Vecna’s control?

A Calm Ending

Many fans have made note of the calmness of the last few scenes. There seems to be an unrealistic calm that flows through the final episode that reminds us of earlier seasons that used the same calm to represent altered realities.

The Number 7

The number seven is used repeatedly throughout, including a dice showing 7 at the conclusion of the episode. This could be a reference to the very first season 1 episode, where Will rolls a 7, and is then taken to the Upside Down. Or does it mean that we will be seeing the real finale on January 7th?!?!

The Final Episode Book Spines

In the final episode, fans noticed that the row of Dungeons & Dragons manuals spells out ” X A LIE”, meaning that Dimension X is a lie.

Prop Changes

Did you notice the color of the voltage meter at the radio tower changes from black to red? Just a mistake by the Duffer Brothers? Or are we seeing Vecna’s fake memories?

Will’s Monologue

In Will’s monologue, he mentions getting milkshakes at “Melvald’s”, which is a general store, but was a diner during Henry Creel’s childhood. Is he remembering Henry’s past?

Henry’s Look

Mike and some of the other Wheelers appear with shorter haircuts and glasses, resembling Henry Creel’s 1950s image. Are they under his control?

Fake Ending

While on Netflix, search for “fake ending”,  and Stranger Things comes up as a Top Result. Coincidence?

Is Conformity Gate Real?

Netflix and the Duffer Brothers have NOT confirmed that there will be a new Stranger Things Season Finale dropping on January 7th. Maybe they are telling the truth, or maybe this will end up being the greatest gotcha moment in television and streaming history. Time will tell.