While the Alien franchise is renowned for its terrifying Xenomorphs, there’s one human antagonist who stands out as equally despicable: Carter Burke. In Aliens: What If?… #1, readers are treated to an alternate version of the 1986 film Aliens, where Burke survives the events on LV-426 and faces his own twisted fate.
In this alternate universe, Burke manages to escape the Xenomorph-infested Hadley’s Hope by exploiting the chaos caused by Ripley, Bishop, and Hicks. He cunningly slips past the aliens and onto the Colonial Marines’ vessel, seemingly unscathed. However, his survival spells doom for those he encounters, as he ultimately makes a call to Yutani, the company behind the Hadley’s Hope settlement.
Yutani, desperate for a Xenomorph specimen, orders Burke to eliminate the survivors and return to Earth. In exchange for his compliance, Burke is promised a lifetime of benefits from the company. Yet, the life he receives is far from desirable, as he becomes a pariah blamed for the disaster at Hadley’s Hope.
Burke is ostracized and vilified, even by his own daughter, and is relegated to a desolate asteroid terraformed by Weyland-Yutani. Trapped in a holographic illusion of Earth, Burke suffers in isolation, haunted by his past deeds. However, a twist of fate at the end of the issue suggests that Burke’s fortunes may be about to change.
Armed with an Ovomorph and accompanied by a loyal synthetic, Burke possesses the means to wreak havoc on an unprecedented scale. Despite being falsely accused of attempting to bring a Xenomorph to Earth, Burke now holds the power to unleash an alien apocalypse upon humanity.
In this alternate reality, Burke’s journey from corporate lackey to potential harbinger of doom serves as a chilling reminder of the consequences of greed and betrayal. As he teeters on the brink of unleashing untold destruction, Burke’s fate may ultimately shape the destiny of humanity itself.
FAQ
What is Aliens: What If?… about?
Aliens: What If?… presents alternate versions of the events depicted in the iconic film Aliens. It explores what might have happened if certain characters had made different choices or if key events had unfolded differently.
How does Carter Burke fare in the alternate universe?
In this alternate reality, Carter Burke survives the events on LV-426 and becomes a pawn of Weyland-Yutani. He is blamed for the disaster at Hadley’s Hope and is condemned to a life of isolation on a desolate asteroid.
What is Burke’s ultimate fate in the alternate universe?
Armed with an Ovomorph and aided by a synthetic companion, Burke possesses the means to unleash a Xenomorph apocalypse upon humanity. His actions may shape the destiny of humanity itself in this alternate Alien canon.
How does Aliens: What If?… contribute to the Alien franchise?
Aliens: What If?… offers fans a fresh perspective on the events of Aliens and explores the potential consequences of different outcomes. It expands the mythology of the franchise and delves into the darker aspects of human nature.