Aliens versus Predator 2: Primal Hunt (2002)

by Christopher
written by Christopher 5 minutes read

Summary

Aliens versus Predator 2: Primal Hunt (2002)

Introduction

Aliens versus Predator 2: Primal Hunt is a first-person shooter video game developed by Monolith Productions and published by Sierra Entertainment. It was released for Microsoft Windows in 2002 and is an expansion pack for Aliens versus Predator 2. Primal Hunt chronicles the initial breach leading up to the events in Aliens Versus Predator 2, specifically, the destruction of Research Pod 5.

Gameplay

Primal Hunt features three playable species: Predator, Predalien, and Corporate. Each species has its own unique abilities and weapons. The Predator is a powerful and agile hunter with advanced technology, including a plasma caster, wrist blades, and a cloaking device. The Predalien is a hybrid of the Predator and Alien, combining the strength and ferocity of both species. The Corporate are human soldiers equipped with a variety of weapons, including assault rifles, shotguns, and flamethrowers.

The game consists of nine missions, with three missions for each species. The missions are set in a variety of environments, including the jungle, the research pod, and the Predator ship. The objectives of the missions vary, but they all ultimately lead to the retrieval of a mysterious artifact with the power to confuse and repel the Aliens.

New Features

Primal Hunt introduces several new features to the Aliens versus Predator 2 gameplay, including:

  • The ability to play as a Predator-Alien hybrid in single and multiplayer
  • A new “energy flechette” weapon for the Predator
  • A new 360-degree motion tracker and deployable sentry guns for the humans
  • Four new Deathmatch maps
  • The ability for the Predator to activate a short range self-destruct bomb when nearly defeated

Story

The story of Primal Hunt takes place before the events of Aliens Versus Predator 2. A Predator ship carrying a mysterious artifact crashes on Earth, and the artifact is stolen by a team of Colonial Marines. The Predator, the Predalien, and the Corporate are all sent to retrieve the artifact, and their paths inevitably cross.

The Predator is sent to retrieve the artifact because it contains information that could be used to destroy the Predator race. The Predalien is sent to retrieve the artifact because it contains the genetic material of the Alien Queen, which the Predalien needs to create a new Alien army. The Corporate is sent to retrieve the artifact because it believes that it could be used to develop new weapons.

The three species clash in a bloody battle for the artifact, and the fate of Earth hangs in the balance.

Reception

Aliens versus Predator 2: Primal Hunt received generally positive reviews from critics. The game was praised for its intense action, varied gameplay, and innovative new features. However, some critics found the game to be too difficult and repetitive.

Overall, Aliens versus Predator 2: Primal Hunt is a solid expansion pack that adds a lot of new content to the already excellent Aliens Versus Predator 2. The game’s varied gameplay, intense action, and innovative new features make it a must-play for fans of the Aliens and Predator franchises.

Legacy

Aliens versus Predator 2: Primal Hunt is considered to be one of the best expansion packs ever released. The game’s innovative new features and intense action have helped to keep it popular with fans of the Aliens and Predator franchises. Primal Hunt was also one of the first games to feature a playable Predator-Alien hybrid, which has since become a popular character in the Aliens and Predator universes.

Conclusion

Aliens versus Predator 2: Primal Hunt is a classic first-person shooter that offers intense action, varied gameplay, and innovative new features. The game is a must-play for fans of the Aliens and Predator franchises, and it is still considered to be one of the best expansion packs ever released.

Review Score

8.5/10

Art

Cover Art

Screenshots

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Christopher has carved a niche for himself as an authority on retro pre-2000 computer games. With a passion that borders on reverence, Christopher delves deep into the pixelated past of gaming, unearthing gems and sharing insights that resonate with both nostalgic players and curious newcomers. His articles serve as a time machine, transporting readers back to an era where gameplay and creativity often trumped graphical fidelity. Cristopher's expertise isn't just in cataloging these classics; he analyzes their design, the context of their creation, and their impact on the gaming landscape, offering a comprehensive look at the evolution of digital entertainment. Beyond mere retrospectives, Christopher champions the relevance of these retro games in today's high-definition world. He skillfully draws parallels between the foundational mechanics of yesteryear's titles and the modern gaming innovations they inspired. His work goes beyond mere preservation; it's an ongoing dialogue between the past and present of gaming. Christopher's content educates, entertains, and ignites discussions within the gaming community. His dedication not only keeps the legacy of pre-2000 games alive but also highlights their importance in shaping the future of video gaming.

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