Games Workshop's highly anticipated Warhammer 40,000 animation, Astartes 2, has resurfaced with a stunning teaser trailer, captivating fans of the franchise. However, a crucial detail has emerged: none of the footage in the teaser will actually appear in the final animation.
Astartes 2 serves as the sequel to the acclaimed fan-made original, created by Syama Pedersen. Widely considered the pinnacle of Warhammer 40,000 animation, it's only rivaled by Amazon's recent Space Marine 2 animation. The original Astartes' success even inspired Saber Interactive's popular Space Marine 2 video game, leading Games Workshop to recruit Pedersen for the sequel.
After years of silence, the surprise release of the teaser trailer on January 29th, 2025, reignited excitement. The trailer showcases breathtaking visuals, featuring melee combat, ranged firefights, vehicle warfare, and even space battles, showcasing various Space Marine chapters against diverse enemies like Tyranids, Orks, and Tau.
It's not even February yet and the Ws for 2025 won't stop coming! Astartes is back, Brothers! pic.twitter.com/sYhu5LjwiC
— Champions of the Ice (@ChampionsOTIce2) January 29, 2025
Despite the hype, Games Workshop clarified on the Warhammer Community website that the teaser is a compilation of shots representing the characters' backstories, not actual scenes from Astartes 2. The final shot subtly hints at the overall narrative.
This lack of transparency, with no disclaimer on the trailer itself, might prove problematic. Many viewers will likely assume the teaser footage will be in the final product, especially without seeing the Warhammer Community clarification.
The teaser's imagery suggests the characters will eventually form an Inquisition-led Deathwatch Terminator squad. Speculation among fans is rife, with many hoping elements from the teaser, perhaps even the capes, will find their way into Space Marine 2. Given Saber Interactive's ongoing updates, this isn't entirely unrealistic. The Astartes 2 teaser has certainly ignited a renewed wave of anticipation and speculation within the Warhammer community. The animation is set for an exclusive 2026 release on Games Workshop's Warhammer+ streaming service.
