The Innova Nexus Alien looks like nothing else in the bag, with a UFO shaped top and a Rings of Headrick grip pattern instead of a standard rim. Nexus plastic sits between DX and Star in durability and grip, giving it a comfortable, slightly tacky feel.

Flight Numbers: 4 / 2 / 0 / 1

Nexus is a step up from DX in durability without the cost of premium plastic, and it holds its stable, dependable flight for a long time. The thumb track ridges give a secure grip for both backhand and forehand releases, which matters more on this mold than most because of its unusual shape.

Thrown flat, the Alien flies straight with very little glide and a light fade, more like a Frisbee toss than a typical midrange arc. That low glide is actually the point: it makes range harder to overshoot and gives a repeatable, controllable flight for approach shots. It tends to fly best forehand, where the rings interface naturally with the index finger for extra snap.

Good for beginners working on backhand driving technique in a field, and for anyone who wants a precise, controllable disc for tight approach shots. It is not a distance tool, so do not expect big glide.

Want a cheaper way to try this shape? The DX Alien flies almost the same for less. Prefer more durability? The Star Alien holds up longer. See our stable midranges, including the Discraft ESP Buzzz for a more traditional shape.

Speed 4, glide 2, turn 0, fade 1. Diameter 21.6 cm, rim width 1.4 cm, max weight 179 g.