Games Workshop's highly anticipated Warhammer 40,000 animation, Astartes 2, resurfaces with a stunning teaser trailer, captivating fans. However, a crucial detail emerges: the trailer showcases footage not featured in the actual animation.
Astartes 2 follows the acclaimed fan-made original by Syama Pedersen, widely considered the best Warhammer 40,000 animation. Its impact is undeniable, inspiring Saber Interactive's successful Space Marine 2, and leading Games Workshop to hire Pedersen for the sequel.
After years of silence, the teaser trailer dropped, showcasing breathtaking visuals: intense melee combat, explosive firefights, thrilling vehicle battles, and even epic spaceship clashes. Various Space Marine chapters engage diverse enemies, including Tyranids, Orks, and Tau, across multiple environments.
The hype is real, but Games Workshop clarifies on the Warhammer Community website that the trailer is a "compilation of shots representing the former lives of characters appearing in the show." The ending subtly hints at the final storyline.
While the trailer is visually impressive, its deceptive nature might backfire. Many viewers, unaware of the disclaimer on the Warhammer Community website, will expect the trailer's content to appear in Astartes 2.
Despite this, the trailer sparks excitement and speculation. The final image suggests the characters form an Inquisition-led Deathwatch Terminator squad. Space Marine 2 fans express envy, hoping elements, particularly the capes, might find their way into the game. Given Saber Interactive's ongoing updates, this isn't entirely improbable. Astartes could once again inspire Space Marine 2's development. Astartes 2 is slated for a 2026 release exclusively on Games Workshop's Warhammer+ streaming service.
