"Predator Movies: Chronological Viewing Guide"

Humans often pride themselves on being at the top of the food chain, yet in the vast expanse of the galaxy, we're just contenders in the cosmic arena. The iconic "Predator" franchise, which kicked off with the legendary Arnold Schwarzenegger film in 1987, delves into the world of the "Yautja"—towering extraterrestrial hunters who roam the universe in search of worthy prey. These beings not only seek trophies from their hunts but also abduct various species to engage in deadly games on their home world.

The saga began with the first two films in 1987 and 1990, setting the stage for a thrilling narrative. The 2000s brought a thrilling crossover with the "Alien" franchise's Xenomorphs, culminating in two "Alien vs. Predator" movies. Subsequent films in the following decade, directed by talents like Robert Rodriguez, Shane Black, and Dan Trachtenberg, each added unique flavors to the series.

With two new Predator movies slated for 2025, now's the perfect time to revisit these sci-fi classics. Whether you're a die-hard fan or a newcomer, we've outlined the complete timeline of the Predator movies, including where you can watch them online.

Jump to:

• How to watch in chronological order
• How to watch by release order

How to Watch the Predator Movies in Chronological Order

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You can also check out our guide to the Alien movies in order to incorporate the whole timeline.

How Many Predator Movies Are There?

There are a total of seven movies in the Predator franchise — four in the mainline series, two Alien crossovers, and one prequel. Two more Predator films are set to release in 2025.

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Predator 4-Movie Collection

Includes Predator, Predator 2, Predators, and The Predator

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Predator Movies in (Chronological) Order

1. Prey (2022)

Prey serves as a prequel, ideally watched after the other films, especially Predator 2. However, for a true chronological experience, start here. Set in 1719 on the Great Plains, it follows Naru, a young Comanche woman (Amber Midthunder), who faces a primitive Predator during a hunt, showcasing her determination to prove herself against this alien adversary.

Read IGN's review of Prey

Where to Stream: Hulu

2. Predator (1987)

The saga began with Predator, directed by John McTiernan and starring Arnold Schwarzenegger. This action classic follows a military rescue team ambushed by an invisible alien hunter in South America's jungles. Schwarzenegger's character, Dutch, must outsmart and defeat this technologically advanced foe.

Where to Stream: Hulu | Rent/Buy: Prime Video

3. Predator 2 (1990)

Predator 2 shifts the scene to 1997 Los Angeles, where a heatwave and crime surge coincide with the arrival of a new Predator. Danny Glover leads a cast of cops battling both a cartel war and the alien hunter stalking the city.

Where to Stream: Hulu | Rent/Buy: Prime Video

4. AVP: Alien vs. Predator (2004)

After a 14-year hiatus, AVP: Alien vs. Predator brought the franchise back with a crossover, merging it with the Alien saga. Set in modern-day America, it reveals centuries-old hunts where Predators used humans to breed Xenomorphs for sport.

Read IGN's review of AVP: Alien vs. Predator

Where to Stream: Hulu | Rent/Buy: Prime Video

5. Aliens vs Predator: Requiem (2007)

Aliens vs Predator: Requiem continues directly from AVP, introducing the "Predalien" as it wreaks havoc on a small Colorado town. A Predator "cleaner" is sent to eliminate this threat.

Read IGN's review of Alien vs. Predator: Requiem here.

Where to Stream: Hulu | Rent/Buy: Prime Video

6. Predators (2010)

Predators, directed by Robert Rodriguez, takes the action off-world to a Yautja game reserve. Humans, recognized as top killers, are abducted for sport amidst a conflict between Predator factions. The exact Earth year is unclear, but it's generally placed in the early 21st century.

Read IGN's review of Predators

Where to Stream: Hulu | Rent/Buy: Prime Video

7. The Predator (2018)

Shane Black's The Predator revisits the original formula, featuring a squad of soldiers combating multiple Predators and their genetic manipulation plans. The film teases further adventures, with alternate endings hinting at a crossover with the Alien series.

Read IGN's review of The Predator

Where to Stream: Hulu | Rent/Buy: Prime Video

How to Watch the Predator Movies by Release Date

If you prefer watching the movies in the order they were released in theaters, here's the list:

• Predator (1987)
• Predator 2 (1990)
• AVP: Alien vs. Predator (2004)
• Aliens vs Predator: Requiem (2007)
• Predators (2010)
• The Predator (2018)
• Prey (2022)

The Future of the Predator Franchise

Two new Predator movies are scheduled for 2025. Predator: Badlands, set for a theatrical release on November 7, 2025, will star Elle Fanning and center around the Predator as the protagonist, directed by Dan Trachtenberg.

The second film, also directed by Trachtenberg, is Predator: Killer of Killers, an animated feature exploring three different encounters with the ultimate killer across various historical periods. This movie will be available on Hulu starting June 6.