: Fans on IMDb praised this finale for its "satisfying epilogue" and "mind-blowing" visual effects, specifically the scene where Eleven closes the Gate.
"Stranger Things" Chapter Nine: The Gate (TV Episode 2017) - IMDb [S2E9] Episode 9
: Reviewers from IMDb focused on the high-stakes multiverse crossover and the surprising reveal of the episode's true villain. : Fans on IMDb praised this finale for
: Reviewers from Rolling Stone and The Guardian highlighted Lena Headey’s performance as Cersei Lannister, noting her "terrifying strength" and describing the hour as her finest on the show to date. [S2E9] Episode 9
: The A.V. Club praised the episode for its "unsentimental depiction of warfare," interpreting it as a sharp critique of the political systems that perpetuate such violence. Other Notable Season 2, Episode 9s