Warhammer 40,000: Astartes 2 Teaser Released

Games Workshop has resurrected the long-awaited Warhammer 40,000 animation, Astartes 2, with a stunning teaser trailer that has captivated fans. However, there's a twist: the trailer doesn't actually feature any footage from the upcoming animation.

Astartes 2 is the sequel to the fan-made original, Astartes, created by Syama Pedersen. Widely considered the best Warhammer 40,000 animation ever made, it arguably only rivals Amazon's recent Space Marine 2 animation in the Secret Level anthology. Its success even inspired Saber Interactive's highly popular Space Marine 2, leading Games Workshop to bring Pedersen on board for the sequel.

After years of silence, the January 29th release of the teaser trailer was a welcome surprise. It showcases a breathtaking scale of animation, featuring melee combat, ranged battles, vehicle warfare, and even spaceship engagements. Various Space Marine chapters clash across diverse environments, facing off against 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

The teaser is undeniably impressive, but the Warhammer Community website revealed a crucial detail: none of the footage is from the actual animation. Instead, it's a compilation of shots representing the past lives of characters who will appear in Astartes 2. A subtle hint at the story's direction is offered at the trailer's conclusion, leaving fans to speculate.

The lack of a disclaimer on the trailer is likely to cause confusion. Many viewers will assume the teaser showcases actual Astartes 2 content, without seeing the clarifying Warhammer Community post.

Despite this, the teaser's impact is undeniable, sparking excitement and speculation. The final image suggests the characters may ultimately join an Inquisition-led Deathwatch Terminator squad.

Meanwhile, Space Marine 2 fans have expressed their envy, hoping some elements, perhaps even capes, might find their way into the game. With Saber Interactive continuing to update Space Marine 2, the possibility of further inspiration from Astartes remains.