In the latest issue of Alien #3, the established relationship between Synthetics and Xenomorphs is challenged. The comic presents a scene where a Xenomorph attacks a Synthetic without any provocation, which goes against the previous notion that Synthetics were safe around Xenomorphs. This suggests that the Xenomorphs may have had to learn to recognize the value of Synthetics, which could potentially change the dynamic between the two species in the wider Alien universe. Check out the image below for a visual representation of the scene.
The relationship between Xenomorphs and Synthetics in the Alien franchise has been a significant element throughout its various installments. However, this dynamic has recently undergone a significant alteration, especially in Alien #3. This change the established understanding of their interaction and have far-reaching implications for the franchise's mythologyIn prior interactions, it was evident that Synthetics and Xenomorphs did harm each other. Synthetics seemed to admire the Xenomorphs' organic and lethality, while Xenomorphs appeared indifferent toward Synthetics. However recent developments suggest that this mutual tolerance might no longer hold true.
For example, in: Covenant, David created his own variant of the Xenomorph species by manipulating genetic material. Similarly, Ash protected a newbornomorph at the expense of the crew's safety in the original Alien film.
This challenges fans' assumptions about these creatures' relationship and introduces new perspectives on their dynamics. It indicates that there may be unexplored complexities yet be revealed regarding how Synthetics and Xenomorphs interact with one another.
In Alien #3 by Declan Shalvey and Andrea Broccardo, the story follows Zasha as she returns to the ice moon LV-695 to rescue Dayton, a Synthetic who helped her escape from there previously. Dayton, who was like a father figure to Zasha, was in danger of being left behind in the harsh conditions of the ice-covered moon.
However, Zasha's mission takes an unexpected turn when she discovers that she was being followed by Jun Yutani from the Weyland-Yutani corporation. Yutani also had an interest in Dayton, but not for sentimental reasons. It is revealed that Dayton was part of a research team studying a captured Xenomorph years ago, and his memory banks held valuable information about the creature that Yutani desperately wanted.
Interestingly, there have been instances in the Alien comic book series where Synthetics have been able to interact with Xenomorphs without being attacked. This has led fans to speculate that Xenomorphs may not attack Synthetics due to their lack of organic material, making them unable to be impregnated. Another theory suggests that Xenomorphs simply cannot register Synthetics as potential hosts. However, this comic implies that the Xenomorphs' apparent indifference towards Synthetics might be a learned behavior for their own benefit, rather than an inherent trait.
So, the story in Alien #3 raises intriguing questions about the relationship between Xenomorphs and Synthetics, challenging previous assumptions and adding depth to the Alien universe.
This particular scenario might depict a time when Xenomorphs, as a species, were unaware of the potential usefulness of Synthetics. This could explain why other instances of Xenomorph/Synthetic interaction have been non-violent without any provocation. Alternatively, it could be an unexplained anomaly. Regardless, this one scene alone has completely changed the dynamic between Xenomorphs and Synthetics, and it remains to be seen how this will impact the broader Alien mythology. You can check out Alien #3 by 20th Century Studios, which is available now.