If you want to watch the Alien movies in order, there are two main ways: following the chronological timeline of the story or watching the films in their release order.
The Alien franchise is one of the most iconic science fiction horror series in cinema history. Beginning with Ridley Scott’s groundbreaking film in 1979, the series introduced audiences to the terrifying Xenomorph creature and the dark, industrial future of space exploration.
This guide explains the complete list of Alien movies in order, including chronological timeline order and release order, so you can easily follow the story across the entire franchise.
Alien Movies in Order – Table of Contents
- Alien Movies in Chronological Order
- Alien Movies in Release Order
- Alien Movies Checklist (Printable)
- FAQ
Alien Movies in Chronological Order
Chronological order follows the timeline of events inside the Alien universe.
- Prometheus (2012)
- Alien: Covenant (2017)
- Alien (1979)
- Aliens (1986)
- Alien 3 (1992)
- Alien: Resurrection (1997)
This order begins with the prequel films that explore humanity’s origins and the mysterious Engineers before moving into the original Alien storyline with Ellen Ripley and the terrifying Xenomorph encounters.
Alien Movies in Release Order
Release order is usually the best way to watch the Alien movies in order, especially for first-time viewers.
- Alien (1979)
- Aliens (1986)
- Alien 3 (1992)
- Alien: Resurrection (1997)
- Prometheus (2012)
- Alien: Covenant (2017)
Watching the series in release order allows viewers to experience how the Alien universe evolved over time. The original films focus on survival horror and action, while the later prequels expand the mythology behind the Xenomorph species and the origins of humanity.
Alien Movies Checklist (Printable)
This checklist helps you track every Alien movie while watching the series.
- Alien (1979)
- Aliens (1986)
- Alien 3 (1992)
- Alien: Resurrection (1997)
- Prometheus (2012)
- Alien: Covenant (2017)
If you want to track your progress while watching the series, download the printable checklist below.
Download Alien Movies Checklist (PDF)
For more information about the franchise visit the official Alien movie page.
FAQ
How many Alien movies are there?
There are currently six main films in the Alien franchise, including the original Ripley storyline and the prequel films Prometheus and Alien: Covenant.
Should I watch Prometheus before Alien?
If you want to follow the story timeline, you can start with Prometheus. However, most viewers prefer watching the series in release order to preserve the mystery and development of the Alien universe.
Are Prometheus and Alien: Covenant part of the Alien series?
Yes. Both films are official prequels that explore the origins of the Alien universe and the creation of the Xenomorph species.
Final Thoughts
The Alien franchise blends science fiction, horror, and action to create one of the most memorable movie series ever made. Watching the Alien movies in order helps viewers understand how the story developed from the original Nostromo incident to the later exploration of humanity’s origins.
Whether you choose chronological order or release order, this guide provides a clear way to watch the entire Alien movie timeline.
The Alien universe has had a massive influence on science fiction cinema. The original 1979 film created a new style of space horror by combining dark industrial environments with psychological tension. The design of the Xenomorph creature, created by artist H.R. Giger, became one of the most recognizable monsters in movie history.
Over time, the Alien franchise expanded into action, horror, and philosophical science fiction themes. Films like Prometheus and Alien: Covenant explore the origins of humanity and the mysterious Engineers, while the original Ripley storyline focuses on survival against the deadly Xenomorph threat.