Warhammer Studio has unveiled the first teaser trailer for the highly anticipated sequel to their acclaimed Astartes animated series, set within the brutal Warhammer 40,000 universe. Production is well underway, with the original creator, Shyama Pedersen, returning to helm this new chapter. The teaser offers glimpses into the past lives of key characters, featuring footage specifically created for the trailer, and concludes with a tantalizing hint at the overarching narrative. The premiere is slated for 2026.
In the grim darkness of the far future, there is only war. But how does one truly immerse oneself in the horrors of the 41st millennium? How can we draw closer to the grace of the God-Emperor? This visual guide explores several animated series that offer a glimpse into the life of an Adeptus Astartes.
Table of Contents
- Astartes
- Hammer and Bolter
- Angels of Death
- Interrogator
- Pariah Nexus
- Helsreach
Astartes
Immerse yourself in the grim darkness of Warhammer 40,000 with Astartes, a fan-made animated series that has captivated a global audience. Created by the visionary Syama Pedersen, this series follows a Space Marine squad on a brutal mission against the forces of Chaos. Boasting millions of views on YouTube, Astartes is celebrated for its stunning visuals, bringing the intricate details of the 40K universe to life with breathtaking animation. Remarkably, this phenomenal achievement was accomplished by a single individual, fueled by an unwavering passion for the source material. The series showcases intense warfare, from meticulous deployments in deep space to the use of sacred weaponry and the strategic tactics of insurgent forces, offering a level of immersion that rivals official Warhammer 40K productions.
"I’ve been a longtime fan of Warhammer 40K and always dreamed of bringing it to life in CG. My focus is on quality over quantity, and I hope that shines through in my work." – Syama Pedersen.
Hammer and Bolter
Hammer and Bolter masterfully blends the efficient elegance of Japanese anime with the grim darkness of Warhammer 40,000. Employing minimalist framing, recycled movements, and powerful poses, it conveys large-scale action with remarkable economy. Dynamic backgrounds heighten the intensity, immersing viewers in the brutal chaos of the far future. The strategic use of CGI models enhances key scenes, creating faster, more explosive sequences. This fusion of traditional anime style and cutting-edge technology results in a visually stunning experience that perfectly captures the essence of the Warhammer 40,000 universe. The art style evokes a nostalgic feel reminiscent of classic superhero cartoons from the late 1990s and early 2000s, with dynamic character designs and a striking color palette that contrasts deep golds, reds, blues, and greens against dark shadows. The haunting soundtrack, blending synthetic tones with eerie strings, amplifies the sense of dread and foreboding, intensifying during action sequences with frantic electric sounds and booming drums.
Angels of Death
Angels of Death, a gripping 3D animated series, delves into the heart of the Warhammer 40,000 universe. Created by director Richard Boylan, this series demonstrates the power of fan-driven creativity and the limitless potential of the Warhammer 40K IP. Born from Boylan's fan-made Helsreach miniseries, which impressed Games Workshop enough to commission official content for Warhammer+, the series honors the rich lore while pushing the boundaries of storytelling and visual artistry. Following a squad of Blood Angels on a perilous mission to find their lost captain on a mysterious and horrifying planet, Angels of Death masterfully blends mystery, action, and horror. The striking black-and-white visual style, punctuated only by the crimson red of the Blood Angels' armor and the blood of battle, enhances the emotional impact, immersing viewers in a world of dread. The meticulous attention to detail further enhances the immersive experience.
Interrogator
Interrogator offers a unique perspective on the Warhammer 40,000 universe, exploring its shadowy underbelly with a film noir-inspired visual style. Unlike previous adaptations that focus on large-scale conflicts, Interrogator takes a more intimate approach, drawing inspiration from Necromunda. The story follows Jurgen, a fallen interrogator and psyker haunted by addiction and guilt, as he embarks on a bloody journey of self-discovery and redemption. His path intertwines with a local crime gang, adding layers of complexity. The innovative use of Jurgen's psychic abilities serves as a narrative device, unraveling the story's layers and offering a poignant exploration of the human condition in a universe devoid of hope.
Pariah Nexus
Pariah: Nexus, a three-episode animated series, showcases breathtaking CG animation, dynamic action sequences, and a haunting score. Set on the war-torn world of Paradyce, it follows an unlikely alliance between a Sister of Battle and an Imperial Guardswoman amidst the ruins of their civilization. Their quest for hope contrasts with the story of Sa’kan, a Salamanders Space Marine protecting a small family and a priest, all while pursued by a relentless Necron sniper. This series is a visual and emotional masterpiece, appealing to both seasoned fans and newcomers alike.
Helsreach
Helsreach: The Animation, created by Richard Boylan, revolutionized Warhammer 40K animation. Adapted from Aaron Dembski-Bowden's novel, it tells a quintessential Space Marine story of a planet facing annihilation. The black-and-white aesthetic, enhanced by marker inks over CGI, creates a timeless, gritty atmosphere. Boylan's expertise in storyboarding, cinematography, and blocking elevates the action sequences to rival those of big-budget productions. Helsreach inspired a new generation of creators and laid the foundation for Warhammer+, cementing its legacy as a transformative work of art.
There is only the Emperor, and he is our Shield and Protector.
