

While similar in some aspects, there are some key differences that are worth noting between the two designs. While this original look was intended to get kids interested in Alien action figures, this apparent upgrade on that design is absolutely terrifying. This design is reminiscent of Kenner’s Mantis Alien most notably because both Xenomorph variants share similar curved pincers. The new style of creature is bug-like with large, curved pincers instead of clawed hands. Where this early ‘90s toy line becomes relevant when discussing the latest Alien comic book series is the design of the new Xenomorphs the settlers of Euridice encountered upon their entry into an alien hive. Every Xenomorph toy under the Aliens line was creatively unique as they merged the classic Xenomorph with a number of different creatures, creating characters like the Bull Alien, Scorpion Alien, Rhino Alien, Snake Alien, and Mantis Alien.

The 1992 Aliens toy line produced by Kenner Products was an initiative to bring kids into the world of Alien by supplying content and merchandise appropriate for a younger audience. Related: Simpsons' Alien Parody Proves the Film's Rejected Ending Would Have Worked While searching for missing community members, the settlers find themselves in a Xenomorph hive where they encounter an all-new type of Xenomorph, one which resembles another creative redesign for the creature that debuted three decades prior. In Alien #10 by Phillip Kennedy Johnson and Salvador Larroca, the people who ventured out into deep space and created lives for themselves on the moon settlement Euridice are escaping their colony after a ship full of Xenomorphs crash-landed in their community.
