When the Colonial Marines set out after their deadliest prey, the Xenomorphs, it’s what Corporal Hicks calls a bug hunt-kill or be wiped out. Listed below are fifteen all-new stories of such ‘close encounters,’ compiled by many of today’s most incredible authors.

Set during the events of most four Alien movies, mailing the Marines to alien worlds, to derelict space settlements, and in to the nests from the universe’s most dangerous monsters, these activities are guaranteed to send the blood racing-one way or another.