Part monster, part warrior, all cool, the Predator has become an iconic character in modern cinema, a recognizable force to be reckoned with to even those who have never seen a Predator film. An alien with the moves and the tools that would make any self-respecting space soldier jealous, the Predator has been entertaining audiences with his exploits since his titular 1987 film which starred Arnold Schwarzenegger (as his opponent, of course).

The Predator has certainly outgrown his second-billing status since his days with Arnie, though, having subsequently starred in a Schwarzenegger-less sequel in 1990, the match-up that fanboys have long dreamed of in 2004 called Alien vs. Predator, and of course the upcoming Aliens vs Predator: Requiem. And then there are the countless comic books, videogames, novels, and toys that have been spawned in honor of the character.

In celebration of the upcoming film, which hits on Christmas, IGN Stars is taking our readers on a crash course through the Predator's history, including a study of his various looks over the film series, and of course his best Murder Death Kills from each movie (including Alien vs. Predator). So turn your cloaking device off, relax your wrist blades, and join us for a look back at the ultimate hunter.