How it grew into a universe?
The original film’s success spawned sequels, crossovers and spin-offs (notably Predator 2 (1990)
Followed by comics, books, merchandise in toys, modelkits, tradingcards, statues, videogames etc. and the Alien vs. Predator movie crossover
Later on followed by Predators (2010) and The Predator (2018) The franchise expanded each added lore (different Predator types, tech) that built the universe.
Predator (1987) — Jungle hunt in Central America; first introduction to the species in the worst most forbidden jungle.
Predator 2 (1990) — Expands the mythos to an urban setting (Los Angeles, 1997); shows multiple Predators, hunting codes, and trophy room with the Alien skull.
Alien vs. Predator (2004) — Brings in the idea of ancient Predator rituals on Earth, hunting Xenomorphs as rites of passage.
AVP: Requiem (2007) — Introduces the “Predalien” hybrid and shows Predator “cleaner” caste sent to contain outbreaks.
Predators (2010) — Humans dropped on a game preserve planet; reveals hierarchy of “classic” vs. “super” Predators.
The Predator (2018) — Expands on hybridization experiments and the idea of evolving to resist humanity’s advancement
Best Comics
Dark Horse Comics carried Predator lore for decades (1989–2020). Highlights:
Predator: Concrete Jungle (1989) — First comic series, set in New York; expands on the urban-hunt idea.
Predator: Cold War (1991) — Soviet Union setting, showing global scope of Predator activity.
Aliens vs. Predator (1989) — The crossover that launched the AVP phenomenon; one of the most influential comics in the expanded universe.
Predator: Bad Blood (1994) — Focuses on a rogue Predator, exploring Yautja culture and punishment.
Predator: Fire and Stone / Life and Death (2014–2017) — Crossovers with Aliens and Prometheus, weaving Predator into a broader sci-fi mythos.
Best Novels
Predator: Cold War (1997, by Nathan Archer) — Expansion of the comic arc, fleshing out Predator hunts in Siberia.
Predator: Forever Midnight (2006, by John Shirley) — First to heavily use the “Yautja” culture and language.
Predator: Flesh and Blood (2007, by Michael Jan Friedman & Robert Greenberger) — Explores Predator family/clan dynamics.
Predator: Turnabout (2008, by Steve Perry) — A skilled human hunter vs. Predator in Alaska; survivalist themes.
Predator: South China Sea (2008, by Jeff VanderMeer) — Jungle hunt with eco-thriller elements.
Best Video Games
Predator (1987, NES/Arcade) — First game adaptation of the movie.
Aliens vs. Predator (1999, PC) — Classic FPS; let players switch between Marine, Alien, and Predator.
Aliens vs. Predator 2 (2001, PC) — Hugely influential sequel with story depth and Predator perspective.
Predator: Concrete Jungle (2005, PS2/Xbox) — Third-person action game; you play as a disgraced Predator seeking redemption.
Aliens vs. Predator (2010, PS3/360/PC) — Modern remake with updated Predator gameplay.
Predator: Hunting Grounds (2020, PS4/PC) — Asymmetrical multiplayer (Predator vs. human fireteam).