What Order to Watch Alien and Predator Movies (Chronological Guide 2025)

Are you a fan of sci-fi horror movies with terrifying extraterrestrials and intense action? Then the Alien and Predator franchises are must-watch classics. But with so many crossovers, sequels, and prequels, it can be confusing to figure out what order to watch Alien and Predator movies in.

Don’t worry—we’ve got your back! In this guide, we’ll break down the complete chronological viewing order of all Alien, Predator, and Alien vs. Predator films. Whether you’re watching for the first time or rewatching the saga, this blog will help you understand the best order to watch the Alien and Predator movies in 2025.

Let’s dive into the timeline of these two iconic sci-fi universes.

Why Does the Alien and Predator Watch Order Matter?

These two franchises were originally separate. The Alien series began in 1979, and Predator started in 1987. Later, they were merged with crossover films like Alien vs. Predator (AVP).

So watching them in release order or chronological timeline order gives you a completely different experience.

If you’re new to the saga or just want to follow the storyline as it unfolds in the universe, we recommend the chronological order.

Chronological Order of Alien and Predator Movies

Here’s the best order to watch Alien and Predator movies based on the timeline of events in the films:

1. Predator (1987)

• Timeline Setting: 1987
• Why Watch It First: This is the movie that introduced the Predator alien hunters. It sets the stage for what the Predator species is all about.

2. Predator 2 (1990)

• Timeline Setting: 1997
• Why Watch It Next: Set 10 years after the first, this movie expands on Predator culture and confirms they’ve been hunting humans for decades.

3. Prey (2022)

• Timeline Setting: 1719
• Yes, it’s earlier, but it was released later.
• Why It’s Third: Though set earlier in history, this one fits better after understanding Predator tech and motives. You can move it earlier if you want a true timeline.

4. Alien vs. Predator (2004)

• Timeline Setting: 2004
• Why Watch It Now: This crossover explains the connection between the two alien species and how Predators have used Xenomorphs (Aliens) in ritual hunts.

5. Aliens vs. Predator: Requiem (2007)

• Timeline Setting: Direct sequel to AVP (2004)
• Why Watch It Next: It continues right after the events of the first AVP, showing the chaos that follows when Xenomorphs invade Earth.

6. Prometheus (2012)

• Timeline Setting: 2093
• Why It’s Important: This is the beginning of the Alien timeline. It explores the origin of Xenomorphs and the Engineers—ancient alien beings who helped create them.

7. Alien: Covenant (2017)

• Timeline Setting: 2104
• Why Watch It Now: A direct sequel to Prometheus, this movie follows the birth of the modern Xenomorph and sets the stage for Alien (1979).

8. Alien (1979)

• Timeline Setting: 2122
• Why It’s Classic: This is the movie that introduced the terrifying Xenomorphs and Ellen Ripley. A true sci-fi horror legend.

9. Aliens (1986)

• Timeline Setting: 2179
• Why It’s Epic: A direct sequel to Alien, this action-packed movie shows Ripley return to fight a Xenomorph infestation with a squad of space marines.

10. Alien 3 (1992)

• Timeline Setting: 2179 (right after Aliens)
• Why Watch It: Continues Ripley’s story in a prison planet setting. Dark and intense.

11. Alien: Resurrection (1997)

• Timeline Setting: 2379
• Why It’s Final: Set 200 years after Alien 3, this film features a cloned Ripley and a new hybrid Xenomorph threat.

Quick List: Alien and Predator Movies in Chronological Order

Here’s a quick list for easy viewing:

1. Prey (2022)
2. Predator (1987)
3. Predator 2 (1990)
4. Alien vs. Predator (2004)
5. Aliens vs. Predator: Requiem (2007)
6. Prometheus (2012)
7. Alien: Covenant (2017)
8. Alien (1979)
9. Aliens (1986)
10. Alien 3 (1992)
11. Alien: Resurrection (1997)

✅ Pro Tip: You can watch Prey first if you prefer a true chronological timeline, but many fans like to start with the 1987 Predator for context.

Alternate Viewing Order: Release Order

Some fans prefer to watch these movies in the order they came out:

1. Alien (1979)
2. Aliens (1986)
3. Predator (1987)
4. Predator 2 (1990)
5. Alien 3 (1992)
6. Alien: Resurrection (1997)
7. Alien vs. Predator (2004)
8. Aliens vs. Predator: Requiem (2007)
9. Predators (2010)
10. Prometheus (2012)
11. Alien: Covenant (2017)
12. The Predator (2018)
13. Prey (2022)

This method lets you experience the evolution of film tech and storytelling over the years.

Bonus: Where to Watch Alien and Predator Movies in the USA (2025)

Looking for where to stream these films in 2025? Here’s a handy guide for USA viewers:

• Hulu: Prey, Predator, Predator 2
• Disney+ (via Star): Alien, Aliens, Alien 3, Alien: Resurrection, Prometheus, Alien: Covenant
• Amazon Prime Video: Rent or buy all titles including AVP and Requiem
• Peacock: Sometimes includes The Predator (2018) or Predators (2010)
• Tubi/Pluto TV: Occasionally offers older titles for free with ads

🎬 Tip: Use JustWatch.com to find the latest streaming platform for each movie.

Most Asked Questions About Alien and Predator Movies (2025)

Final Thoughts: What Order Should You Watch Them?

If you’re a first-time viewer, go with the chronological order listed earlier for the most logical and immersive storyline. You’ll see how humanity first encountered these alien creatures and how their terrifying saga evolved.

Want a blast from the past? Try the release order for that nostalgic movie magic. Either way, you’re in for a wild sci-fi horror ride.