Every Predator and Their Weapons and Tactics, Explained

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The movie Predator first hit theaters in 1987, introducing viewers to the unforgettable alien creature at the heart of the series. These aliens, known to fans as the Yautja, are easily recognized by their dreadlock-like hair and frightening jaws. They have a strong warrior culture, where each individual must demonstrate their skill and earn acceptance within their community.

Although some Predators seem alike, each one has a unique appearance, mask, weapons, and way of fighting. Over the years, the Predator movies have developed the backstory of these alien characters, constantly improving their portrayal. The newest film, Predator: Badlands, is the first to focus on a Predator as the main hero instead of a villain. Since the original Predator movie came out almost 40 years ago, many memorable Predators have appeared, and each one has something interesting to offer.

‘Predator’ (1987)

Jungle Hunter


20th Century Pictures

The original Predator, known as the Jungle Hunter, was brought to life with incredible practical effects by Stan Winston. This first Yautja was depicted as a highly skilled hunter, relying on scouting and stealth. He follows a strict code of honor, only seeking out challenging and dangerous opponents. We see this in the movie when he spares Anna because she isn’t armed, and when he chooses to fight Dutch with his bare hands in a final, honorable showdown.

As a huge Predator fan, I always think back to the original ‘Predator’ and how much it established for the Yautja. That movie wasn’t just a thrilling hunt; it basically gave us the Predator’s iconic toolkit. We first saw the cloaking device, the powerful Plasmacaster shoulder cannon, and those incredible Wristblades extending from the gauntlet. It also introduced the Bio-mask – a seriously advanced piece of tech that gives them all sorts of visual and audio modes, all controlled from the wrist. And let’s not forget the Medicomp, their field medical kit, and that nasty Disintegrator Gas they use to clean up… well, everything. It really set the stage for everything we’ve seen in the franchise since.

‘Predator 2’ (1990)

City Hunter (Ghost)


20th Century Studios

Unlike the Jungle Hunter, the City Hunter, also known as the Ghost, is young and reckless. He disregards the traditional Yautja code of honor, often killing easy targets like drug dealers and gang members instead of worthy opponents. Although skilled, his hunts feel more like indiscriminate killings, and his overconfidence ultimately leads to his downfall.

Fans will recognize some of the City Hunter’s gear – his cloak, Plasmacaster, and Wrist Gauntlet, which now has upgrades like the Energy Flechette, a fast-moving projectile. This sequel also updated his mask and added a Medicomp kit. But the City Hunter introduced completely new weapons too, like the Speargun, a Smart Disc that can be thrown and cuts on impact, and the Combistick, a spear that folds up for easy use. He was also the first to use the Netgun, which fires a net to capture and restrain targets.

The Lost Tribe: Boar, Borg, Greyback, Guardian, Scout, Shaman, Snake, Stalker, and Warrior


20th Century Studios

We only get a quick look at the Lost Tribe at the end of Predator 2, when they’re shown on their spaceship. The City Hunter Predator is one of them. Though we don’t see much of each of the nine Predators, they all have unique features, like different Bio-masks and weapons when they become visible. Greyback is the oldest and leader of the Yautja, and he’s shown without his mask but carrying a Plasmacaster. There’s a clear ranking system, with Warrior acting as his second-in-command.

As a longtime fan, I always loved how each tribe in the film had such clear visual cues – Shaman with his staff, Borg with a sword, and Snake wielding that Combistick. It instantly showed off their differences and hinted at their history. And even though we don’t see the Lost Tribe fight, their respect for Harrigan winning against the City Hunter really stood out. It proved they took the Honor Code more seriously than the City Hunter did, showing a surprising amount of class.

‘Alien vs. Predator’ (2004)

Celtic


20th Century Studios

Celtic is one of the three young Predator warriors featured in Alien vs. Predator. He traveled to Earth with the others to hunt Xenomorphs inside an ancient Predator pyramid that had just been discovered. Though still relatively new to hunting, Celtic had already killed more creatures than his brothers, using his size and forceful approach to become the group’s powerhouse. He’s a confident hunter, but he follows the Predator code of honor, making him noble, even if a bit reckless.

Celtic was equipped with typical Predator weaponry, like the Plasmacaster, Wristblades, and Combistick, and used them all effectively. He also carried a ceremonial dagger for hunting and employed the Shuriken, a Yautja-style throwing star. Notably, Celtic’s body armor offers more coverage than previous Predators’ armor.

Chopper


20th Century Fox

Chopper is a Youngblood Predator featured in a famous scene from Alien vs. Predator, facing off against a Xenomorph – a perfect representation of the film’s central conflict. As the middle brother of Celtic and Scar, he joins them on a traditional hunt. Chopper is the most impulsive of the three brothers, often acting without thinking things through. Although he takes risks, he’s a capable fighter, and his inexperience is his biggest weakness.

Chopper is equipped with typical Predator gear, including a cloaking device and a Plasmacaster, and wears a special Bio-mask. His signature weapon is the Scimitar, which is an enhanced Wristblade that extends much further, functioning more like a sword with a longer reach.

Scar


20th Century Fox

In the movie Alien vs. Predator, Scar is the youngest of three Youngblood Predators, but he becomes the main focus. He’s the only one who proves himself a true hunter – earning his ‘Blooded’ status – by killing multiple Xenomorphs, including their Queen, and he gets help from the human character Lex Woods. Unlike his more reckless brothers, Celtic and Chopper, Scar is a thoughtful planner. He understands the value of strategy and, when a situation becomes chaotic, realizes that fighting alongside a human can be a smart move, using her skills to his advantage.

Like his siblings, Scar is a capable fighter, but he’s more versatile. He’s proficient with a variety of weapons, including shurikens and combisticks, and can even create weapons on the fly. For example, he once crafted a spear and shield for Lex using parts from a dead Xenomorph.

Ancient Predator


20th Century Studios

The Ancient Predator appears briefly at the end of Alien vs. Predator, watching over the hunt led by Chopper, Scar, and Celtic. Although it doesn’t fight, the Ancient Predator acknowledges and respects the hunter’s code. It recognizes that Scar marked Lex with a Blooded mark, signifying her skill, and shows this respect by gifting her his Combistick.

The Ancient Predator has a more detailed face and clearly shows his high rank through his clothing, like the cape commonly worn by older Yautja. Although he doesn’t actively use weapons in the scenes shown, he carries a Combistick and Wrist Gauntlet, and uses his cape when arriving and leaving.

‘Alien vs. Predator: Requiem’ (2007)

Wolf


20th Century Fox

When a Predator spaceship crashes on Earth, a terrifying new creature emerges – a Predalien, a hybrid of Predator and Xenomorph. To stop this threat, they call on Wolf, an exceptionally skilled Predator hunter. Wolf isn’t just any hunter; he’s earned his elite status through numerous impressive kills, going above and beyond his initial training. Years of combat have left him scarred – he’s missing a jaw and is blind in one eye – but he remains a powerful and experienced warrior, fully capable of taking on this dangerous alien and using his cunning hunting skills to win.

Wolf is equipped with typical Yautja gear like Wristblades and a Plasmacaster. He also introduces some new weapons, such as Laser Mines. What really sets him apart is his whip, made from the tail of a Xenomorph, which is a particularly dangerous weapon.

Bonegrill & Bull


20th Century Studios

I always felt bad for Bonegrill and Bull. They’re the very first to fall in Alien vs. Predator: Requiem, immediately taken out by that terrifying Predalien. Honestly, they didn’t really stand a chance. Bonegrill was just going about his work when he was ambushed, and while Bull managed to fire off a few shots with his Plasmacaster, it wasn’t enough to save him. It was a quick, brutal end for both of them.

Both Bonegrill and Bull stand out with their detailed Bio-masks, even though they only appear briefly. Bonegrill uses a unique flaying tool – one we haven’t seen before in the series – but only for examining things, not fighting. Bull relies on his Plasmacaster, and while his Wrist Gauntlet does appear, it’s used to send a distress call instead of exploding.

‘Predators’ (2010)

Berserker


20th Century Fox

Berserker is the leader of the Super Predators in the movie Predators. These Super Predators are a more powerful and brutal type of Yautja, standing taller and having features like darker skin and bigger jaws. Unlike other Predators, Berserker ignores the traditional code of honor, killing anyone he wants in any way he sees fit – though he often uses his plasma cannon. He also doesn’t believe in a fair fight, happily using all his weapons and overwhelming opponents, something a more honorable Yautja wouldn’t do.

The Berserker has standard equipment, but with some key improvements. His Plasmacaster can fire quickly, charge up powerful shots, and swivels more easily. He also has a new Wrist Gauntlet, equipped with just one Scimitar blade instead of the traditional pair.

Tracker


20th Century Studios

I’ve heard stories about Tracker, and he’s truly terrifying. They call him the ‘Dog Handler’ because he uses these incredibly fierce Hell-Hounds to drive his prey out into the open. He actually seems to prefer the company of his dogs to other Predators, and his hunts are just… brutal. It’s not just about the kill for him; it’s almost sadistic. The worst story I heard was about how he stabbed Nikolai, then held him up just to watch the life fade from his face. It was described like a scene straight out of a horror movie, like Michael Myers – completely cold and fascinated by the suffering. He clearly gets a twisted enjoyment out of the hunt itself, not just the victory.

As a huge Predator fan, I’ve always been fascinated by the Tracker. While his blade and bio-mask are iconic, I think his most underrated weapon is actually his dog whistle! It’s not just a whistle, though – he uses it to completely control his hounds, directing them with incredible accuracy. It’s like he’s got a living, breathing weapon he can aim and fire whenever he needs to, which is seriously cool.

Falconer


20th Century Studios

The Falconer is a highly skilled hunter from the Super Predator clan who uses unique technology. His most notable tool is a falcon-shaped drone that launches from his shoulder to scout for prey in the forest. Despite being smaller than other Super Predators, the Falconer is incredibly quick and powerful, as demonstrated in his sword fight with Hanzo. He’s also unique among the Super Predators for showing respect for the traditional hunter’s code, giving Hanzo a fair fight.

The Falconer carries similar weapons to other Super Predators, but he’s especially adept with his Scimitar, favoring close-up fights. He also uses a drone to hunt, which sets him apart from the others – he doesn’t depend on natural hunting instincts like they do.

Crucified Predator


20th Century Studios

In the game, a Predator from the original film’s Jungle Hunter clan is captured by the more powerful Super Predators, who don’t share the same code of honor. Though initially helpless, this Predator eventually escapes and fights back, even teaming up with Royce to attack Berserker. This shows he’s a skilled and honorable warrior who thinks strategically.

The Crucified Predator has typical weapons, but his mask is broken. Being weakened from past torture, he’s at a disadvantage when facing Super Predators. Despite fighting bravely, he was ultimately defeated, and his condition reveals a lot about Predator society and how they treat their own.

‘The Predator’ (2018)

Fugitive Predator (Rogue Predator)


20th Century Studios

The Fugitive Predator stands out for having a particularly confusing set of rules. He’s on Earth to actually help humans by giving them a weapon – a powerful armored suit called the “Predator Killer” – to fight other Predators. However, the movie’s story creates a problem because he ends up killing innocent people. Despite this, we see him use interesting fighting methods, like biting and using sharp bone spurs on his head. Even though his actions don’t quite match his supposed code, he’s a skilled fighter, equally dangerous up close and from a distance.

The Fugitive Predator primarily uses standard weapons, many of which he has to recover after losing them. He also relies on enhancements to his Bio-mask and a new device called the Kujhad, which can remotely control various things – including his ship. Interestingly, during his escape, the Predator briefly uses a standard human assault rifle, a rare occurrence for a Yautja.

Ultimate Predator


20th Century Fox

The Ultimate Predator is a genetically engineered Yautja, and is the largest one ever seen in the series, reaching 11 feet tall. This massive size gives him increased strength, speed, agility, and resilience in battle. Unlike typical Yautja who rely on natural skill, the Ultimate Predator is created by combining DNA to form a more powerful being, a key element of the movie’s story. Though a capable hunter, he primarily wins fights through sheer power.

As a huge Predator fan, I’m really fascinated by the Ultimate Predator. What’s cool is that while he uses a lot of the standard Predator tech, it’s all been seriously upgraded. One thing that immediately stands out is he doesn’t wear a Bio-mask, but somehow still has all its functions – they’ve either built them into him through an implant or he’s genetically modified! He’s also got this Wrist Cannon built into his gauntlet – it’s basically a super-powered version of the Energy Flechettes. And get this – his Wristblades can be launched from the gauntlet too! It lets him fight up close, or fire them like harpoons from a distance. It’s a really inventive take on the classic design.

‘Prey’ (2022)

Feral Predator


20th Century Studios

The Feral Predator stands out among the Yautja as a truly unique hunter. Unlike the Predators seen in previous films, he isn’t part of any established clan and has a different look. He lives up to his ‘feral’ name by favoring brutal, up-close fighting – he even kills a bear with his bare hands! He’s a versatile fighter, demonstrated in his encounters with Naru and the French trappers, where he uses any weapon available and can handle multiple opponents in close combat. Despite his savage nature, the Feral Predator appears to follow the Predator Honor Code, only hunting those who are dangerous or prove to be worthy challengers.

The Feral Predator uses weapons that are familiar to fans, but with a more primitive design fitting the film’s 1719 setting. Instead of the usual advanced Bio-mask, his is crafted from bone, and he swaps the standard Plasmacaster for a type of Bolt Gun. He also has a shield that appears from his wrist-mounted gauntlet, which also lets him deploy proximity mines. He even carries a version of the Netgun that functions like a grenade.

‘Predator: Killer of Killers’ (2025)

Yautja Pilot (World War II Predator)


Hulu

The Yautja Pilot is a unique addition to the Predator series. Instead of hunting on the ground, he’s a skilled fighter pilot who uses his customized Scout Ship as his primary weapon, creating the first aerial battle seen in the franchise.

This Yautja pilot is distinctively bald, without the typical dreadlocks seen on others, and wears an eye patch, suggesting a previous injury. Though he prefers to use his ship – equipped with a net launcher, harpoons, and mines – as his main weapon, he still seems to follow a code of honor. He targets skilled and dangerous fighter pilots from World War II, seeking a worthy challenge.

Grendel (Viking Predator)


Hulu

I’m a huge fan of Grendel in Killer of Killers – he’s just massive and fits perfectly into that Viking world! What really stands out is his missing arm; he’s got this awesome prosthetic that can blast enemies with sonic waves. He’s a hunter who follows a strict code of honor, carefully observing the Vikings and what they’re capable of before he strikes. But honestly, he really enjoys getting up close and personal – his size just makes him incredibly intimidating in a fight!

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Grendel is a surprisingly minimally equipped Predator. He relies on a prosthetic arm, a bio-mask, and a cloak, preferring a simple loadout. This could be a result of being from an earlier period of Predator history, but it also explains his preference for close-quarters combat – he doesn’t even carry a standard medical kit.

Oni Predator (Feudal Japan Predator)


Hulu

The Oni Predator stands out from other Predators with his tall, slender build, unlike their typically bulky frames. He also has a unique mouth, featuring only a lower set of mandibles that are longer and curve tightly upwards. This physical build influences his hunting style; he prefers to carefully observe and study his prey before striking. He’s a highly skilled close-combat fighter, demonstrated in a sword fight that echoes the techniques of Japanese swordplay from 1609.

Okay, let’s talk about the Oni Predator’s weaponry. He’s rocking a lot of familiar Yautja tech, but with some cool tweaks. Forget the standard Plasmacaster – this guy wields a seriously powerful double-barreled version. And his Combistick isn’t just for show; it hides retractable blades. But the real standout? This Predator has a wicked Chain Whip that shoots out of his wrist gauntlet. It’s like watching Scorpion from Mortal Kombat in action – he can snag opponents and yank them right into striking range. It’s a really inventive and brutal addition to his arsenal.

Grendel King


Hulu

Okay, so the Grendel King… he immediately reminded me of the Predator from Prey – I really think they’re connected, maybe even from the same group. This guy is imposing – seriously, he’s huge and incredibly muscular, and that bone cape just adds to the effect. He didn’t become king by accident, obviously; he’s a phenomenal fighter. What’s interesting is he’ll often watch others battle it out first, and then step in to fight the victor. And he wins… a lot. He’s not just brute strength, either. This creature is smart, clearly thinking things through and adapting his strategy mid-fight. It’s a really compelling combination of power and intelligence.

The Grendel King has a distinctive Bio-mask designed to resemble a Yautja skull, fitting with the film’s futuristic setting. He also carries typical Predator weaponry like a Wrist Gauntlet and Combistick. Notably, he wields a Predator Axe – a weapon previously seen in the 2010 film Predators, but not used in combat until now.

‘Predator: Badlands’ (2025)

Dek


20th Century Studios

Dek is a unique character in the Predator series. Initially equipped with typical weapons, he later fights using whatever he can find. He’s often seen as the underdog within his clan, even appearing physically smaller than the others. This has made him incredibly determined to prove himself, no matter the cost. While he tends to rush into fights without a plan at first, he eventually learns to think strategically. Ultimately, Dek is resourceful and can find the strength and cleverness to overcome any challenge.

In addition to his usual weapons, the story follows Dek as he earns his cloak. He has access to special weapons like the Plasma Sword, Plasma Bow, and Cryo Grenades. For his final fight, Dek collects weapons directly from the planet Genna, replacing his usual Plasmacaster with things like explosive grubs, armor made from bone bison, and an eel that spits acid. Unlike most Predators who depend on high-tech gear or hand-to-hand combat, Dek created a unique arsenal using whatever he could find on the planet.

Kwei


20th Century Studios

Kwei is a Yautja torn between his father’s strict warrior code and his own feelings. He struggles with the idea of killing his brother, seeing him as weak, but is a capable fighter both up close and from afar. While his upbringing has flaws, Kwei possesses a natural sense of honor, even if he doesn’t always follow the traditional Honor Code. This makes him a surprisingly good teacher, and he helps Dek develop his skills.

I’ve always been fascinated by Kwei. He’s got all the classic Predator gear – a bio-mask, a cloak, the works. But what really sets him apart are his wristblades, which can come off, and this awesome gauntlet that creates an energy shield. It’s the same advanced shield tech you see on that really aggressive Feral Predator, which is seriously cool!

Njohrr


20th Century Studios

Njohrr is a harsh and unforgiving clan leader who despises weakness, even within his own family. He’s a perfectionist, incredibly proud, and this arrogance ultimately becomes a flaw. He’s easily recognized by his white dreadlocks – a first for the Predator species in movies, and a sign of his age. Despite being older, Njohrr is a formidable fighter, having defeated his own son, Kwei, in combat. However, his cruel and self-serving behavior violates the strict honor code of other Predator clans, an offense that would typically be punished by death.

Njohrr is equipped with typical weapons such as Wristblades and a Cloak, but he also uses a special device called an Energy Snare to trap his enemies. Like his sons, he’s also a skilled fighter with a Plasma Sword.

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2026-01-02 05:12