This year’s Alien Day is still months away, but for alien (and Alien) fans, it can be said that every day is Alien Day — if they want it to be. Besides rewatching the Alien series, there are plenty of other ways to enjoy all things alien. For those who love both aliens and gaming, here are some of the best alien-themed games you can play right now:
Aliens vs. Pinball
Pinball lovers will be pleased to know that there is an Alien-themed pinball game. Created by Zen Studios, Aliens vs. Pinball features three tables based on different Alien films: Aliens and Alien vs. Predator. It also incorporates the video game Alien: Isolation, which is next on this list. The game is available at the Play Store, Apple Store, and as an expansion pack for the Pinball FX series, which is supported by PlayStation, PC, Mac, Wii, Xbox, and others.
Alien: Isolation
Developed by Creative Assembly and published by Sega, Alien: Isolation takes place more than a decade after the events of the original film. Although published in 2014, the game features a 1970s design inspired by the film, so it’s a great choice for those who love updated takes on retro games. In the game, you’ll have to outsmart an alien and fight to survive while solving the disappearance of Ellen Ripley.
PokerStars VR
For those who love both aliens and poker, PokerStars’ new game, PokerStars VR, has got you covered. In this game, you’ll play a virtual game of poker with people from all over the world in a number of different environments. Besides playing in a futuristic Macau, the game recently added a space-themed poker room called PokerStars’ Galaxy Space Station that includes aliens, robots, and plenty of space gadgets and props.
Aliens Attack VR
Another great alien-themed VR game is Aliens Attack VR, which is available on Steam. Developed by The Game Forger, this game is a classic shooter — but in space — where the object of the game is to fight off an alien invasion. In Aliens Attack VR, you’ll use your skills in battle against three different alien forms. If you’re a huge fan of Ender’s Game, you’ll feel just like Ender in this one.
Alien: Blackout
For mobile game lovers, Alien: Blackout by D3 Go! is one of the best. Available for iOS and Android, the object of the game is to survive aboard a space station while a Xenomorph is on the loose. Like Alien: Isolation, this game follows Ellen Ripley’s daughter and her crew. The game features seven levels and a variety of different challenges, so it’ll satisfy your Alien gaming needs for some time.
StarCraft: Remastered
Based on the beloved StarCraft game from the ‘90s, StarCraft: Remastered features the original gameplay with better graphics, audio, updated features, online gaming, and more. The game was released in 2017 by Blizzard Entertainment. It’s another great option on this list for those who are interested in retro gaming. Like the original game, StarCraft: Remastered takes place in a futuristic world where different alien species are fighting for power over the others. In that way, it’s similar to Aliens Attack VR because players must use military tactics to fight off aliens. The game is available to play on Mac and PC.
Mass Effect: Andromeda
Developed by BioWare and published by Electronic Arts, Mass Effect: Andromeda is the fourth game in the series. It takes place during the 29th century, where humans are exploring new worlds in order to find a new home. You’ll play as one of the humans tasked with finding a new planet. During your adventures, you’ll come across many hostile alien species that you’ll have to fight off to survive.
All of the above games will be sure to please any Alien lover. But stay tuned — Predator: Hunting Grounds is expected to be released sometime this year for PlayStation and Windows. And Predator VR, another highly-anticipated release, will drop next year.
If you're a fan of Alien / Prometheus and would like to discuss Alien: Covenant and its upcoming sequel with other like-minded fans, be sure to join in our Alien: Covenant forum! Ranked the #1 Prometheus forum back in 2012 and reigning as the web's top Alien: Covenant fan site, it's a great place to discuss the upcoming Prometheus sequels, dissect details from every trailer and engage with other fans just like you.
The future of Alien
The Alien franchise is taking a dramatic turn at 20th Century Studios, now owned by Disney. Currently there are two major Alien projects in development - a new Alien TV series by Noah Hawley and a new, stand-alone Alien movie being directed by Fede Alvarez. Both of which will be taking the franchise in a new direction - moving away from the Alien prequel direction Ridley Scott set out to pursue back in 2012.
Treat yourself to some Alien Merchandise!
As we await the next Alien movie, now is a great time to build your Alien collection and expand your Alien-themed wardrobe. Check out some products below and click here for even more options!
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