Discover the Predator Universe: How to Watch the Films in Chronological Sequence
Humans often pride themselves on being at the top of the food chain, but in the vast expanse of space, we are just pawns in a brutal galactic game. The Predator franchise, which kicked off with the iconic 1987 film starring Arnold Schwarzenegger, revolves around the formidable "Yautja" — alien hunters from distant planets who travel across the cosmos seeking dangerous trophies. These towering predators kidnap species from various worlds to hunt them on their home turf, showcasing their lethal prowess and advanced technology.
Initially, the series launched with two movies in 1987 and 1990, establishing the core mythology of the Yautja hunters. As the franchise expanded, it became intertwined with the universe of the Alien series through crossover films, blending horror and sci-fi elements. Over the years, notable directors such as Robert Rodriguez, Shane Black, and Dan Trachtenberg have put their unique spin on the saga, enriching the story with diverse perspectives and thrilling action sequences.
With new entries like Predator: Killer of Killers streaming now and an upcoming film slated for release in 2025 — potentially hinting at another Alien crossover — there’s never been a better time to immerse yourself in the Predator universe. To help you navigate the complex timeline, here’s a comprehensive guide on how to watch all Predator movies in chronological order, along with recommendations on where to stream them online.
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How Many Predator Films Are There?
The franchise currently includes eight films: four mainline entries, two crossover films with Alien, one prequel, and one anthology. Fans can look forward to a new Predator film arriving in theaters later in 2025, continuing the saga and possibly expanding the universe further.
Predator Movies in Chronological Order
1. Predator: Killer of Killers (2025)
This anthology film explores different versions of Predators across three timelines. The first two are set in the Viking Age and Feudal Japan, centuries before the original Predator. The third takes place after World War II, positioned between Prey and the 1987 classic. While it’s ideal to watch Killer of Killers with some context from the original film, it can be enjoyed at any point during a Predator marathon.
Read more about the film in our detailed review.
2. Prey (2022)
As a prequel, Prey is best suited to be watched after the main series, especially Predator 2. Set in 1719 on the Great Plains, it follows Naru, a young Comanche woman played by Amber Midthunder, who finds herself face-to-face with a more primitive Predator during a hunting expedition. Her determination to outsmart the alien hunter offers a fresh take on the franchise and provides crucial background to the Predator mythos.
Read our review of Prey for more insights.
3. Predator (1987)
The original film, directed by John McTiernan and starring Arnold Schwarzenegger, launched the franchise. It tells the story of an elite military rescue team in the jungles of South America, who encounter an invisible, deadly alien hunter. As the Predator reveals itself, Schwarzenegger’s Dutch must use all his skills to survive and outwit this technologically superior alien predator.
4. Predator 2 (1990)
Moving the story to the urban landscape, Predator 2 is set in 1997 Los Angeles during a heatwave and crime surge. Featuring Danny Glover as a cop battling a Predator stalking the city, this film expands the mythology by introducing the idea that Predators hunt on Earth regularly and have a code of honor. The gritty city setting adds a new level of tension and action to the saga.
5. AVP: Alien vs. Predator (2004)
This crossover film marked a major turning point, merging the Predator and Alien universes. Set in modern-day America, it reveals that Predators have been hunting Xenomorphs on Earth for centuries, using humans as hosts for their breeding cycles. The film was a commercial hit, reinvigorating both franchises and setting the stage for future crossovers.
Read our review for a detailed critique.
6. Aliens vs. Predator: Requiem (2007)
The direct sequel to Alien vs. Predator, Requiem continues the battle, focusing on a small Colorado town overrun by Xenomorphs and a Predalien hybrid. The film explores the chaos unleashed when the deadly creatures clash, and the Predator’s role as a hunter of both species.
Check out our full review for more details.
7. Predators (2010)
This film takes the franchise off Earth for the first time, taking viewers to a distant planet that serves as a Yautja game reserve. Featuring actors like Adrien Brody, Walton Goggins, Laurence Fishburne, Topher Grace, and Alice Braga, it depicts humans abducted to fight for sport between competing Predator tribes. Although the exact timeline is ambiguous, it’s generally set around 2010 or the early 21st century, fitting into your viewing plan accordingly.
8. The Predator (2018)
After an eight-year hiatus, The Predator returned to theaters, directed and co-written by Shane Black, who also starred in the original. The film features a squad of unstable soldiers facing off against rampaging Predators involved in DNA splicing experiments. It maintains the franchise’s classic action roots while teasing future installments, including alternate endings that hint at crossovers with iconic characters like Ellen Ripley and Newt.
How to Watch Predator Films by Release Date
If you prefer experiencing the franchise as it was originally released, follow this order:
- Predator (1987)
- Predator 2 (1990)
- AVP: Alien vs. Predator (2004)
- Aliens vs. Predator: Requiem (2007)
- Predators (2010)
- The Predator (2018)
- Prey (2022)
- Predator: Killer of Killers (2025)
The Future of the Predator Franchise
Fans can anticipate two new Predator movies arriving in 2025. Predator: Badlands, scheduled for release on November 7, 2025, will star actress Elle Fanning and features Predator as the protagonist — a fresh twist on the classic formula. The first teaser hints at a possible connection to the Alien universe, with Fanning’s character seemingly rebooting like a synthetic being, suggesting a fascinating crossover potential.
Stay tuned for more updates on these upcoming films, which promise to expand the Predator saga even further.
Derek Shaw
Derek is a seasoned film critic and cinephile with a deep appreciation for storytelling, cinematography, and character development. He covers everything from mainstream blockbusters to indie films and international cinema. With a unique voice and thoughtful perspective, Derek offers reviews, deep dives, and behind-the-scenes insights that resonate with both casual viewers and hardcore movie fans.
