18:00 CEST – 20 JULY 2026: Deep Silver and KING Art Games today unveiled the third of four in-game CGI narrative sequences for Warhammer 40,000: Dawn of War IV, revealing the return of the Necrons as they awaken to reclaim the ancient tomb world of Kronus.
The deathless Necron traded their mortal bodies for mechanical supremacy, paying with their souls in the process. After a 60-million-year slumber, they have awakened to reclaim their ancient dominion. Watch the trailer here: https://youtu.be/wFtKLe0IMwE
Necron CGI Overview
Each cinematic chapter introduces one of the four playable factions in Dawn of War IV. This latest trailer focuses on the Necrons, as the undying legions of the Szerkhan Dynasty prepare to reclaim Kronus from the “lesser species” now locked in endless war across its surface.
The trailer opens with Thothmek, a powerful Necron Chronomancer, observing the brutal conflict on Kronus from orbit as Space Marines and Orks battle for dominance. Looking upon the planet with cold disdain, Thothmek laments how the Necron tombs were desecrated and destroyed during his people’s long slumber, while lesser races infested what was once a sacred world of the ancient dynasties.
As haunting mechanical chants echo through the void, Thothmek begins awakening the dynasty’s full military might.
Endless ranks of Necron Warriors rise in unison beside towering Triarch Stalkers, swarming Canoptek Scarabs, and imposing Lych Guards, assembling into a vast army of living metal.
The cinematic culminates in a chilling final reveal: a colossal Necron fleet gathered above Kronus under Thothmek's command, ready to descend upon the planet and purge all who stand in the way of its reclamation.
The war for Kronus is no longer between mortals.
The Necrons have returned
Warhammer 40,000: Dawn of War IV launches on September 17, 2026, with Commander Edition players deploying from September 14 through a 3-Day Early Unlock. Both editions are available to pre-order now with a 10% discount.
The war will continue long after launch. Year One includes free updates featuring the return of Crusade Mode, new maps, modes, Commanders, and the Mission Editor, alongside two major story expansions that will deepen the conflict on Kronus and introduce a new playable faction to the battlefield.
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About Dawn of War IV
Dawn of War IV delivers an unforgettable sci-fi RTS experience set within a faithful recreation of the beloved Warhammer 40,000 universe. Take charge of four factions in an epic story that spans multiple non-linear campaigns, clash with other players in tense multiplayer combat, and enjoy fan-favorite modes including Last Stand, Skirmish and more!
Visit dawnofwar4.com for more details.
NOTES TO EDITORS:
Latest assets can be found here: Dawn of War IV - Assets - PLAION Press Server
Title: Warhammer 40,000: Dawn of War IV
Platform: PC
Genre: RTS
Developer: KING ART Games
Publisher: Deep Silver / PLAION
Release Date: September 17 (Commander Edition on September 14)
KING Art is an independent game developer, celebrating 25 years of experience in creating high-quality games for all major platforms. More than 100 employees across several teams are located at the offices in Bremen, Germany and work with about as many freelancers around the globe. Founded in 2000, KING Art has since released more than 50 titles in different genres, with a focus on narrative games, RPGs and strategy games. The company and its games have received multiple prestigious awards, including Best Strategy Game and Best Development Studio, multiple German “Games of the Year” and “Studio of the Year” awards.
KING Art is a licensed developer for Microsoft, Sony and Nintendo platforms and member of Verband der deutschen Games-Branche (GAME)
For more information, please visit www.deepsilver.com
Founded nearly three decades ago, PLAION has firmly established itself within the entertainment arena. With a diverse range of services and solutions, PLAION stands as the premier publishing partner for console and PC games across both physical and digital channels. Moreover, its strong foothold in the Virtual Reality (VR) domain highlights the company's commitment to varied gaming experiences.
PLAION is an Embracer Group company.