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 not included in the final animation.

Astartes 2 serves as a sequel to the acclaimed fan-made original, created by Syama Pedersen. Considered by many as the pinnacle of Warhammer 40,000 animation, it arguably only trails Amazon's recent Space Marine 2 animation in Secret Level's anthology. Its impact was significant, inspiring Saber Interactive's successful Space Marine 2 game, leading Games Workshop to recruit Pedersen for the sequel.

Years of silence surrounding Astartes 2 fueled speculation of cancellation. The January 29th, 2025 teaser trailer release, however, proved otherwise. The trailer boasts unprecedented scale and quality for a Warhammer 40,000 animation, featuring intense melee and ranged combat, vehicle warfare, and even spaceship battles. Various Space Marine chapters clash across diverse environments against Tyranids, Orks, and Tau.

While the teaser generates immense excitement, Games Workshop's Warhammer Community website clarifies that the footage is not from the actual animation. Instead, it depicts scenes representing the characters' past lives, hinting at the final storyline. The lack of a disclaimer on the trailer itself is a potential issue, as many viewers will likely assume the depicted scenes will appear in the final product.

The trailer's final image suggests the characters' convergence into an Inquisition-led Deathwatch Terminator squad. This has already sparked speculation and excitement amongst fans, with some hoping elements, such as capes, will be incorporated into the Space Marine 2 game. Given Saber Interactive's ongoing updates, this isn't entirely outside the realm of possibility. The teaser, while impressive, leaves fans eagerly awaiting the actual Astartes 2 content, slated for a 2026 release exclusively on the Warhammer+ streaming service.