It has been years since the Alien Xenomorphs and Predators from the big screen have tangled with superheroes in the pages of a comic book, but following Marvel’s acquisition of the two sci-fi properties, it looks as though the two extra-terrestrial species will be testing their mettle soon in the Marvel Universe.
It appears that 2020 will mark the end of the arrangement Dark Horse Comics has had with Alien and Predator properties since 1988 and 1989, respectively. According to the news site IGN, Marvel Comics has acquired the rights to both Alien and Predator, paving the way for a new line of comics set in this cinematic sci-fi universe.
While Marvel hasn’t revealed many specifics concerning the titles or creative teams, Batman artist David Finch debuted a pair of incredible teaser images of Alien’s “Big Chap” Xenomorph and The Predator both of which seem to have targeted the Avengers.
Finch, in an interview with IGN, said that he had a blast drawing the two pieces along with the following,
“Alien and Predator are the two of the most identifiable, iconic characters of all time, and I love them for that. But mostly, it’s being fortunate enough to be a kid when they were new. I’ve seen every movie they’ve ever been in, and I cannot wait to see them wreaking havoc in the Marvel Universe. I drew my pictures of them with a massive smile on my face.”
C.B. Cebulski, Editor-in-Chief of Marvel, also told IGN,
“There’s nothing more thrilling than a story that will keep you at the edge of your seat, and Alien and Predator have delivered that time and time again! I can clearly remember where I was when I saw each of these modern masterpieces for the first time, and reveling in how both masterfully weave extra-terrestrial dread and drama into some of the most iconic scenes we’ve ever seen on film. And it’s that legacy that we’re going to live up to!
” As a visual medium, comics are the perfect place to build on those moments, and we here at Marvel are honored to begin telling these stories for fans everywhere. As our release schedule continues to return, we can’t wait to share more in the coming months,” added Cebulski.
Marvel Editor Jake Thomas added,
“The incredible legacies of both franchises offer some of the most compelling and exciting worldbuilding in all of science fiction. It is a thrill and an honor to be able to add to that mythology and continuity with all-new stories set within those universes.”
The teasers are not meant to suggest the two franchises will be integrated into the Marvel Universe (like when they acquired Conan license in 2018), but will allow Marvel’s new comics to instead expand on the characters and settings of the various Alien and Predator movies, much like has happened when Marvel acquired the Star Wars properties. Still, it’s always possible fans will see some sort of Alien vs. Predator vs. Avengers crossover in the future.
Keep checking Comic Watch for any breaking news that may happen at SDCC Comic-Con@Home at the end of the month, or sooner.
