The Alien and Predator franchises are thriving. New movies, shows, comics, and games keep the hype alive, especially after the buzz around Predator: Badlands and the promise of a fresh AvP film. Yet, despite this momentum, a new entry in the Aliens vs. Predator video game series remains strangely absent. The original crossovers weren’t just successful; they were iconic, blending the unique strengths of each universe into a brutal, tense experience that hasn’t been replicated since 2010.
The Legacy of the Crossover
The collision of Xenomorphs and Yautja began in the comics in 1990, quickly translating to video games thanks to developers like Capcom and Rebellion. These early titles established a formula: high-octane action, creeping dread, and a unique dynamic between three distinct factions. The AvP first-person shooters (FPS) stood out for their visceral combat and atmospheric horror, elements that still hold up today.
But the question remains: why haven’t we seen a modern take on this formula? Predator: Hunting Grounds and the upcoming Alien: Isolation 2 prove that interest in both universes remains strong. The absence of a new AvP game is puzzling, especially given the untapped potential for a truly innovative experience.
What Made the Old Games Work?
The AvP games excelled because they didn’t try to reinvent the wheel. They captured the essence of the source material, pitting the relentless Xenomorphs against the technologically superior Predators in a chaotic three-way conflict with human mercenaries caught in the middle.
- Asymmetrical Gameplay: Each species played differently. Marines relied on firepower and teamwork, Xenomorphs on speed and stealth, and Predators on advanced weaponry and brutal efficiency.
- Atmosphere: The games balanced claustrophobic horror with open-ended hunting grounds, shifting seamlessly between tense survival and explosive action.
- Multiplayer: The asymmetrical multiplayer modes were legendary. AvP 2 offered unique modes like Survivor (Xenomorphs converting entire servers into drones) and Overrun (a Counter-Strike-style battle with limited lives).
These elements created a tension that few modern games can match. The unpredictable nature of the conflict, combined with the distinct playstyles, made every match a thrilling, terrifying experience.
Why Games Excel Where Movies Struggle
While a new AvP movie is reportedly in development, the medium has inherent limitations. The big screen demands mass appeal, often softening the brutal edge that defines both franchises. Games, however, can lean into the darkness.
The AvP games weren’t afraid to explore graphic violence, strategic depth, and asymmetrical power dynamics. They allowed players to embody the hunter or the hunted, experiencing the conflict from multiple perspectives. This level of immersion is difficult to replicate in a blockbuster film constrained by ratings and broader audience expectations.
The Future of the Franchise
The potential for a new AvP game is undeniable. The success of asymmetrical horror titles like Dead by Daylight proves that audiences crave tense, unpredictable multiplayer experiences. A modern AvP title could capitalize on this trend, delivering a fresh take on the classic formula.
With Disney and 20th Century Studios showing renewed interest in both franchises, the timing is ripe for a return to the gaming arena. The Alien and Predator universes are at an all-time high, and a new AvP game isn’t just desirable; it’s a logical next step. It’s time to let the Yautja hunt the Xenomorphs once more, with a side of hapless marines for good measure.
