The upcoming film Predator: Badlands, directed by Dan Trachtenberg, is set to premiere in theatres on November 7, 2025. As anticipation builds for this latest installment in the Predator franchise, early trailers suggest that it not only connects to the popular Alien series but also draws inspiration from an obscure video game released two decades ago, Predator: Concrete Jungle.
While the Predator franchise has recently enjoyed a resurgence with successful releases like Prey and Predator: Killer of Killers, it has roots that extend into various media, including comic books and video games. The early 2000s saw a lull in standalone films, but the universe was kept alive through multiple adaptations. Predator: Concrete Jungle, developed by Eurocom, was a significant release during this period, targeting fans’ desire for a single-player action-adventure experience. Despite poor reviews, the game developed a cult following for its ambitious narrative and gory gameplay.
A key element of Predator: Badlands is its Yautja protagonist, Dek, who embarks on a quest for redemption after failing his clan. This narrative arc bears striking similarities to that of the Concrete Jungle protagonist, known as ‘Scarface.’ In the video game, Scarface is exiled to a desolate planet after a confrontation with the mob, paralleling Dek’s journey to regain his honor on a remote and hostile world.
The contrasting timelines between the two stories are notable, with Concrete Jungle set in approximately 2030, while Badlands takes place much further in the future. The specific year remains undisclosed, but the presence of advanced technology indicates significant progress in humanity’s capabilities, including space travel and terraforming.
Both narratives delve into themes of redemption and humanity’s hubris in dealing with unknown forces. Concrete Jungle touches on the consequences of human interference, echoing themes explored in Prometheus, which was released years later. The shared themes suggest that Badlands may also include character arcs reminiscent of its predecessor, offering viewers a deeper connection to the franchise’s legacy.
The film’s connection to the Alien universe is further solidified by the inclusion of the Weyland-Yutani Corporation. This marks a potential crossover between the two franchises, a concept that has intrigued fans for years. Interestingly, Concrete Jungle hinted at this crossover over 20 years ago, featuring references to the Weyland Corporation and its involvement in events that align with the Alien narrative.
In a surprising turn, Concrete Jungle introduced Xenomorphs as adversaries, establishing a direct link to the Alien films. The game’s writer, Grant Morrison, crafted a storyline that suggested a shared universe, including references to the disappearance of a character named Charles Bishop Weyland. Such connections have fueled speculation about the potential for future crossovers, particularly with Predator: Badlands paving the way for exciting developments within both franchises.
As the release date approaches, it is evident that 20th Century Studios has sought inspiration from various sources, including video games and comic books, to enrich the narrative of Predator: Badlands. This approach may provide a fresh perspective on the long-established series, appealing to both long-time fans and newcomers alike. With its blend of familiar themes and innovative storytelling, Badlands has the potential to redefine the franchise’s cinematic landscape.
For those interested in exploring the roots of this franchise, Predator: Concrete Jungle remains available for play on legacy consoles like the PS2 and Xbox. As Predator: Badlands gears up for its theatrical debut, fans are eager to see how it will expand the universe that has captivated audiences for decades.
