Warhammer 40,000: Boltgun 2, the sequel to the retro-inspired first-person shooter Warhammer 40,000: Boltgun, is set to launch on Xbox Series X|S in 2026. Developed by Auroch Digital and published by Devolver Digital and Big Fan Games, the game expands the original’s fast-paced combat while introducing a second playable character to enhance variety and replayability.
The new character, Sister of Battle Nyra Veyrath, joins returning Ultramarine Malum Caedo in the fight against Chaos. According to lead designer Matt Bone, players had repeatedly requested an additional protagonist, and the team aimed to deliver a contrasting playstyle that complements Malum’s gameplay. Nyra is designed as an agile and aggressive character, with a focus on flame-based weaponry and high mobility.
A Distinct Combat Style
Nyra’s arsenal includes bolters, flamers, and melta weapons, reflecting the traditional armaments of the Adepta Sororitas. The development team placed significant emphasis on making her flame weapons both visually and audibly impactful, ensuring that damage feedback is clear while conveying the intensity of her attacks. The Heavy Flamer, in particular, is designed to deliver a strong sense of destructive force while remaining satisfying and readable in combat scenarios.
Her melee combat revolves around the Power Sword, complemented by a one-handed Bolt Pistol. This combination encourages close-range engagement, allowing players to execute combo slashes and thrust attacks. The forward thrust not only increases damage output but also serves as a movement tool, adding tactical options for navigating battlefields and chaining abilities together.
Mobility and Tactical Abilities
Mobility is a central component of Nyra’s design. Her Fervent Slide ability allows her to move quickly through levels, damaging enemies in her path. By jumping during the slide, Nyra can perform a Leap to reach higher areas, and players can slow time mid-air to assess the battlefield or aim more precisely. These mechanics are intended to be intuitive for new players while offering depth for advanced playstyles.
Grenade usage has also been expanded in Boltgun 2. Nyra wields a Melta Bomb that can be thrown at enemies for area damage. Players can hold the throw input to slow time for better placement or detonate it midair, providing opportunities for strategic execution and high-skill plays.
Expanding the Game World
Boltgun 2 continues the story of its predecessor with a branching single-player campaign. Players will navigate new locations, including massive hive cities and dense mangrove swamps, each offering unique challenges. Enemy encounters evolve alongside player progression, introducing new foes such as Bloodletters and Juggernauts. The game aims to balance exploration and combat, encouraging players to experiment with Nyra’s and Malum’s distinct abilities.
The newly revealed key art, created by Johan Grenier, positions Nyra and Malum at the center of a chaotic battlefield, highlighting the dual-protagonist structure of the game. This artwork reflects the ongoing development focus on variety, replayability, and fidelity to the Warhammer 40,000 universe.
Anticipated Features and Future Updates
As development progresses, additional details about Boltgun 2’s gameplay and story are expected. The sequel maintains the retro FPS mechanics of the original while introducing new characters, expanded weapons systems, and diverse environments. Fans of the original are likely to appreciate the added options for mobility, tactical combat, and replayability.
Make sure to check out our articles about top games to play in 2026:
Best Nintendo Switch Games for 2026
Best First-Person Shooters for 2026
Best PlayStation Indie Games for 2026
Best Multiplayer Games for 2026
Most Anticipated Games of 2026
Top Game Releases for January 2026
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
When will Warhammer 40,000: Boltgun 2 release?
The game is scheduled for release in 2026 on Xbox Series X|S. No additional platforms have been officially confirmed.
Who are the playable characters in Boltgun 2?
Players can choose between Malum Caedo, an Ultramarine Sternguard Veteran, and Nyra Veyrath, a Sister of Battle Celestian. Each character has unique weapons, abilities, and combat styles.
What new weapons are available in Boltgun 2?
Nyra wields flame-based weapons including bolters, flamers, and melta weapons, as well as a Power Sword for melee combat. Malum retains his Chainsword and firearms from the original game.
What is Fervent Slide?
Fervent Slide is Nyra’s core mobility ability. It allows her to move quickly across levels while damaging enemies, and can be combined with a Leap for vertical movement. Players can slow time mid-air for tactical advantage.
Are there new enemy types?
Yes, Boltgun 2 introduces new enemies, including Bloodletters and Juggernauts, which increase the challenge as players progress through different biomes and campaign branches.
What platforms will the game be available on?
Currently, Boltgun 2 is confirmed for Xbox Series X|S, with no announcements regarding other platforms.
How does the campaign structure work?
The campaign features branching paths, allowing players to experience different levels and environments depending on their choices. Each path introduces unique challenges and enemy encounters.
Where can players follow updates for Boltgun 2?
Updates can be followed through Auroch Digital’s social media channels, including X, TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube.
