Aggregate score:
PC: 62/100
PS4: 56/100
Review scores:
Friday1: 5/10
Predator: Hunting Grounds is a 2020 multiplayer video game developed by IllFonic and published by Sony Interactive Entertainment. It is based on the iconic Predator franchise, bringing back well-known characters such as Alan “Dutch” Schaefer, played by Arnold Schwarzenegger, Isabelle, portrayed by Alice Braga, and Sean Keyes, played by Jake Busey. Set in the dense and dangerous jungles of the world, the game pits a team of elite soldiers against a single Predator, blending elements of tactical action with intense survival.
This title marks the first full Predator game release for consoles since Predator: Concrete Jungle in 2005 and the first in a decade since the Predators-themed mobile games from 2010. Initially released for PlayStation 4 and Windows on April 24, 2020, the game is now scheduled for release on PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X/S on October 1, 2024.
Gameplay Overview
Predator: Hunting Grounds is an asymmetrical multiplayer game where one player controls the Predator, while the other four take on the role of special forces operatives, known as “Fireteam Voodoo.” These operatives are tasked with completing various paramilitary objectives, such as collecting intelligence or neutralizing a drug lord, all while being hunted by the Predator. The Fireteam’s mission can be completed in multiple ways—players can work together to finish their tasks and escape or turn their focus to hunting down and killing the Predator.
The game’s open maps offer strategic opportunities for the Fireteam, allowing players to split up to cover more ground or work closely as a unit. The Predator, controlled by one of the players, uses stealth and superior technology to eliminate the team. If the Fireteam successfully kills the Predator, their mission shifts to defending its body from hostile forces until it can be extracted by the Other Worldly Life Forms Program (OWLF).
One notable feature is the ability to play as a female Yautja, a first in any Predator game. Players can also unlock and purchase customizations for both the Predator and Fireteam characters through a loot crate system known as “Field Lockers.” These crates grant various appearance and weapon upgrades, including the famed flintlock pistol from Prey‘s Raphael Adolini.
Additionally, two characters from the Predator films return through downloadable content (DLC). Major Alan “Dutch” Schaefer from the original 1987 film and Isabelle Nissenbaum from Predators (2010) are both featured, with Arnold Schwarzenegger and Alice Braga reprising their roles. The Yautja Wolf from the Alien vs. Predator franchise is also available as a playable character.
Release and Development
The game was first announced during a PlayStation State of Play livestream in May 2019, where it was revealed that Predator: Hunting Grounds would support cross-play between PlayStation 4 and Windows players. A beta version was made available from March 27 to March 29, 2020, offering a preview of the final product before its full release on April 24, 2020. Following this, the PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X/S versions are set to release on October 1, 2024, broadening its availability to the next generation of consoles.
Critical Reception
Predator: Hunting Grounds received a mixed response from critics. While some praised the game’s atmosphere and faithful representation of the Predator franchise, others criticized technical issues and long wait times for matchmaking. Tomas Franzese of Inverse was particularly harsh in his review of the beta, calling it “the worst Sony game of this generation” and citing outdated visuals and lack of polish. Jonathon Dornbush of IGN echoed similar sentiments, expressing frustration with the game’s balance and pacing.
Despite these critiques, the game managed to capture a niche audience. In Japan, the PlayStation 4 version sold 9,172 units during its first week, making it one of the top 10 best-selling games at the time.
Conclusion
While Predator: Hunting Grounds may not have achieved universal acclaim, it succeeded in delivering a unique multiplayer experience set within the beloved Predator universe. The blend of team-based strategy and intense alien combat provides a distinctive entry in the asymmetrical multiplayer genre, with continued updates and new platform releases scheduled for the future.
