Check Out Battlefleet Gothic: Armada 2’s Massive Campaign Trailer

In the grim darkness of the past, there were disappointments when it came to Warhammer 40K games. Sure, there are those that set the bar such as Dawn of War 2 and 40K: Mechanicus. Far too often, however, were a slew of middling titles. Some were based on canon events, others were just made up. Rarely do some games depict the vast struggles of a galaxy at war. Well, that’s until now. Battlefleet Gothic: Armada 2, the sequel to the tactical space battle game from 2016, is almost upon us. After some delays, developer Tindalos Interactive and publisher Focus Home Interactive have shown the fruits of their labor in a massive six-minute campaign trailer.

Give it a watch below, mind you, it’s as grand and ambitious as it gets:

The 13th Black Crusade

Battlefleet Gothic: Armada 2’s campaign takes place during the 13th Black Crusade. Abaddon the Despoiler, champion of the Chaos Gods, takes another step closer to Holy Terra. From the maelstrom known as the Eye of Terror, the forces of Chaos set their sights on humanity’s bastion — Cadia.

Aside from the prologue, there are three main campaigns each with their own unique stories, cinematics, and events. The Imperium campaign puts you at the helm with an armada comprised of Space Marines, Imperial Guard, and Adeptus Mechanicus forces. The full might of the Imperium stands at the ready to counter threats.

Meanwhile, the Necron campaign focuses on awakening lost dynasties in various tomb worlds, as the forgotten race rises from the ashes. Last but not least are the Tyranids, ravenous hordes looking to devour entire planets and turn organic life into biomass.

As mentioned, each campaign will have unique quirks for the factions. For instance, it’s mentioned that the Tyranids have vanguard forces that are sent out to disrupt planetary defenses (Genestealers, perhaps). They’ll also encounter other races and factions vying for control of the Aegis Ocularis, a part of the galaxy which contains the Eye of Terror and Cadia. Players will even experience “Annihilation Arcs” where they can obliterate an opposing faction off the map.

Fan Service

This is surely a treat for long-time Warhammer 40K fans. Many have often clamored for titles that conveyed the massive scale of warfare among disparate races in the lore. Battlefleet Gothic: Armada 2 looks like it can do just that.

Given that the game takes place during one of the more recent and “world-shattering” (pun intended, no spoilers) events in Warhammer 40K lore, we’re going to see some cameos and events from favorites. You can see one above from Yvraine, the Herald of Ynnead, the Eldar (or Aeldari) God of Death. We also see glimpses of Primarch Roboute Guilliman’s fleet, Trazyn the Infinite, Blackstone Fortresses, and yes, even space whales! The game also has a plethora of customization options and variations. The multiplayer/skirmish modes have twelve Warhammer 40K races, each with their own sub-factions, ships, and special skills.

Yes, from the trailer alone, it looks like Battlefleet Gothic: Armada 2 is stunning in terms of visuals and content. It already seems like one of the most ambitious Warhammer 40K offerings to date. Of course, this is just a trailer, there will still be some kinks (of the non-Dark Eldar variety) to iron out. Another pre-order beta will be underway on January 15, and the game will launch on January 24.

We’ll keep you up to date with more coverage, and even a review later on. Time will tell if Battlefleet Gothic: Armada 2 can live up to expectations, or if it’ll have numerous setbacks to the cruel laughter of thirsting gods. For now, check out the game’s Steam store page here.