Games Workshop's highly anticipated Warhammer 40,000 animation, Astartes 2, has resurfaced with a stunning teaser trailer that has captivated fans. However, a crucial detail has emerged: the trailer showcases footage not featured in the actual animation.
Astartes 2, a sequel to the acclaimed fan-made original by Syama Pedersen, promises to be a visual spectacle. The original Astartes is widely considered the best Warhammer 40,000 animation, surpassing even Amazon's recent Space Marine 2 animation. Its success even inspired Saber Interactive's popular Space Marine 2 game, leading Games Workshop to bring Pedersen onboard for the sequel.
After a long period of silence, the January 29th release of the teaser trailer reignited excitement. The trailer boasts breathtaking visuals, showcasing intense melee combat, ranged firefights, vehicle warfare, and even epic spaceship battles. Various Space Marine chapters clash across diverse landscapes against formidable foes, including Tyranids, Orks, and Tau.
Despite the hype, Games Workshop clarified on their Warhammer Community website that the teaser is not actual footage from Astartes 2. Instead, it depicts scenes representing the characters' pasts, hinting at the overarching narrative. The lack of a disclaimer on the trailer itself may lead to some initial confusion among viewers.
While the teaser is undeniably impressive, it leaves fans wanting more. The final shot suggests the characters' eventual inclusion in an Inquisition-led Deathwatch Terminator squad, sparking speculation. Space Marine 2 fans, meanwhile, are expressing envy, hoping some elements from the teaser might find their way into the game, particularly the striking capes. With Saber Interactive continuing to update Space Marine 2, further inspiration from Astartes remains a possibility. The animation is set for release in 2026 exclusively on the Warhammer+ streaming service.
