The game Derek plays in Stranger Things 5 — and how you can play it today
In episode 3 of the latest season, a new character named Derek Turnbow appears, holding what looks like an old NES controller — and the game he’s playing is none other than Ghosts 'n Goblins, the notorious 2D action-platformer from 1985, famous for its brutal difficulty and horror-inspired demons, zombies, and skeletons.
That detail isn’t just nostalgia: it’s a tribute to the gaming culture of the 1980s — the same era in which much of Stranger Things is set — and a recognition of the iconic status Ghosts ’n Goblins has achieved among retro fans.
Ghosts ’n Goblins becomes Ghosts 'n Goblins Resurrection
Thankfully, that classic isn’t trapped in the past. The series returned in 2021 with Ghosts 'n Goblins Resurrection, a modern remake developed by Capcom, available today on Nintendo Switch, PC (Windows), PlayStation 4, and Xbox One, also playable on next-generation consoles through backward compatibility.
Ghosts 'n Goblins Resurrection preserves the essence of the original — 2D side-scrolling action, a knight protagonist, demonic enemies, and the legendary high difficulty — but refreshes the formula with hand-drawn graphics, smoother animation, new mechanics, and scalable difficulty designed for both veterans and new players.
What you get today: mechanics, challenge, and legacy
Gameplay & Story: Players control Sir Arthur, a brave knight on a quest to rescue a kidnapped princess from the clutches of demons in a cursed kingdom. Expect waves of zombies, skeleton warriors, flying devils, Pigmen, and other classic monsters from the franchise.
Weapons & Variety: The game offers a wide range of weapons — throwable lances, hammers with shockwave effects, and magical powers that can be unlocked via a skill tree by collecting special items known as “Umbral Bees.”
Difficulty & Replayability: True to its heritage, Resurrection maintains a punishing challenge. Once stages are cleared, “Shadow” versions unlock with rearranged enemies, forcing players to adapt and master new patterns. For newcomers, multiple difficulty levels make the game more approachable.
Modern Presentation: With beautifully redrawn visuals, smooth 60 FPS gameplay on most platforms, and local co-op options, Resurrection blends retro spirit with modern polish.
Why the Stranger Things cameo matters
Bridging generations: Fans who grew up in the 80s and 90s instantly recognize the reference, while newer audiences discover one of gaming’s most respected classics in a contemporary form.
Cultural authenticity: Incorporating a real, iconic video game deepens the immersion of Stranger Things, perfectly matching its nostalgic 80s aesthetic and pop-culture tributes.
Accessibility: Because Ghosts 'n Goblins Resurrection is available on current platforms, anyone can experience the same game Derek plays — no need for vintage hardware. What could’ve been a simple Easter egg becomes an interactive invitation for viewers.
Conclusion
Derek’s appearance playing Ghosts 'n Goblins in Stranger Things 5 isn’t mere fan service — it’s a heartfelt homage to video game history. Through Ghosts 'n Goblins Resurrection, that nostalgic nod evolves into a living experience that anyone can enjoy today.
If you love tough platformers, pixel-action, eerie atmospheres, and want a taste of the golden age of gaming — now reimagined for the modern era — it’s time to step into Sir Arthur’s armor and face the demons once again.
