It's been a great time to be a fan of the Alien IP. On top of a decent movie and television show, we have also had some fun video games with unique ideas for the franchise. Now, one of those games is getting a sequel with Aliens: Fireteam Elite 2.

While the first game will give you a better understanding of some of the characters introduced, there are quite a few others to help set the tone for fighting against these xenomorph threats. Whether you're looking to get in the mood for the upcoming game or want a list of titles to dive into after, here are the best Alien games to play before Aliens: Fireteam Elite 2.

5. Aliens Versus Predator Classic 2000

The two staples of the Alien franchise are either hiding from a single deadly Xenomorph or fighting a horde of the aggressive bugs with some high-tech weaponry. Most of the games on this list fall into the latter category, and one of the best to do it is Aliens Versus Predator Classic 2000.

This rerelease of the 1999 Aliens Versus Predator game includes the expansion pack released the following year as well as more modern updates to make it playable. This beloved classic offers three campaigns letting you play as a Colonial Marine, a Predator, or an Alien. Add in some multiplayer offerings and the endless Alien horde Skirmish mode, and it's worth getting used to this older title.

4. Aliens vs. Predator

If the idea of the previous game sounds nice, but you'd prefer something more modern, look no further than 2010's Aliens vs. Predator. Developed by the same team (Rebellion), this acts as a reboot that feels more in line with the two crossover movies.

No matter if you're playing a campaign or playing against some undoubtedly dedicated fans in multiplayer, this game nails the tense atmosphere and visuals you expect. Better controls and a more connected story also make this more approachable.

3. Alien: Isolation

Facing a hive of Aliens can evoke a particular sense of chaotic dread. Being overrun by any stage of the Xenomorph is a scary thing for Colonial Marine or Predator alike. If you play as an ordinary person without any fancy weapons or tech though, just one of these monsters is enough to strike some fear in your heart.

Alien: Isolation is arguably the most well-received modern game from this franchise, and it does so by emulating the original Alien film. You'll mostly be spending your time hiding and avoiding enemies instead of tackling them head-on. Even though you won't be having this exact same experience in other games on this list, it's still a must-play and a great way to set the tone.

2. Aliens: Dark Descent

Next is a game that I'd argue manages to balance both the horror and more action-horror elements of the franchise. If you've ever wanted to play an XCOM-inspired game with an Alien twist, Aliens: Dark Descent just might scratch that itch.

The obvious difference here is that it's technically a real-time tactics game and not a turn-based one. Still, between the customizable marines at the mercy of permadeath, the various traumas and negative traits they can acquire, and the Cerberus Protocol death clock ticking away, it's hard not to think of XCOM. Good thing it’s as fun as it sounds.

1. Aliens: Fireteam Elite

Naturally, the best game to check out on this list is Aliens: Fireteam Elite 2’s predecessor. Although the upcoming sequel is launching with newer features such as space for an additional player and a custom class, the core experience can still be felt with the first game.

Fighting hordes of various Xenomorphs and other enemies is the name of the game here. What primarily distinguishes it from other Alien games is that it's a co-op third-person shooter. You can play by yourself along with AI companions, but strategizing with your friends to survive waves of Aliens can be a very entertaining experience.

Something else that's great about all these titles is that they're playable on modern consoles. You’ll have even more choices if you happen to have some older consoles lying around or a decent-sized arcade. Here’s hoping we don’t need to wait too long after Aliens: Fireteam Elite 2 to find out more about Alien: Isolation 2.