Long-Awaited Warhammer 40,000 Animation Astartes 2 Is Back From the Dead With Incredible Teaser Trailer — but There’s a Catch

Games Workshop's highly anticipated Warhammer 40,000 animation, Astartes 2, has resurfaced with a stunning teaser trailer, captivating fans worldwide. However, a crucial detail emerges: the trailer showcases scenes that won't actually appear in the final animation.

Astartes 2 follows the immensely popular fan-made original, created by Syama Pedersen, often hailed as the pinnacle of Warhammer 40,000 animation. Its impact is undeniable, inspiring Saber Interactive's successful Space Marine 2 and leading to Games Workshop's recruitment of Pedersen for the sequel.

After a prolonged silence, the January 29th teaser trailer release surprised fans. It depicts breathtaking visuals, featuring melee combat, ranged firefights, vehicle engagements, and even space battles, showcasing various Space Marine chapters battling diverse foes including Tyranids, Orks, and Tau.

The trailer's impressive scope generates significant hype, but Games Workshop clarified on the Warhammer Community website that the footage is not from Astartes 2 itself. Instead, it's a montage representing the characters' backstories. The final shot hints at the overall narrative, leaving fans to decipher the clues.

The lack of a disclaimer on the trailer is a potential issue, as viewers might reasonably assume the depicted scenes will be in the final product. Many may not see the clarifying community post.

Despite this, the teaser sparks excitement and speculation. The final image suggests the characters form an Inquisition-led Deathwatch Terminator squad.

Meanwhile, the teaser has already ignited envy among Space Marine 2 fans, who hope some elements, such as capes, will be incorporated into the game. Given Saber Interactive's ongoing updates, further inspiration from Astartes 2 remains a possibility. The animation is slated for release in 2026 exclusively on Games Workshop's Warhammer+ streaming service.