Background and Origins
Orcs, along with Goblins, Snotlings, and other creatures, are collectively known as Greenskins, a term derived from their vibrant green skin tones. In the Oldhammer era of Warhammer Fantasy, Orcs were a central part of the game’s lore, known for their violent and chaotic nature. Their society is organized into tribes, each led by the biggest and strongest Orc, typically a Warboss or Warlord. These tribes thrive on a culture of constant battle and rivalry, where strength and cunning dictate status. Orcs revere two deities, Gork and Mork, who embody the brutal and cunning ideals that dominate their way of life.
Appearance and Characteristics
Physically, Orcs are larger and stronger than humans, their muscular forms built for battle and endurance. Their rough green skin, pronounced tusks, and brutish features make them instantly recognizable. Orcs grow bigger and tougher the more they fight, making constant warfare an essential part of their nature. Their weapons and armor reflect their savage lifestyle—crude but effective tools cobbled together from whatever materials they can scavenge. Orcs often wield choppas, brutal axes or clubs designed for hacking through foes, and wear mismatched, scrap-built armor that offers both functionality and chaotic aesthetic appeal.
Culture and Behavior
Orcs live for war and are happiest when fighting, whether it’s against their enemies or each other. Even when not engaged in battle, they brawl constantly within their tribes to establish dominance, keeping their brutal hierarchy in flux. Central to their culture is the Waaagh!, a unique and powerful collective energy that drives them into massive war campaigns. When an Orc Warboss becomes strong or charismatic enough, he can rally entire tribes into a Waaagh!, uniting Greenskins into devastating hordes. This relentless love of violence and disorder makes Orcs one of the most dangerous and unpredictable forces in the Old World.
Units and Warfare
The core of any Orc army is made up of Boyz, the basic infantry units. Tough, numerous, and highly aggressive, they overwhelm enemies through sheer brute force. Black Orcs, larger and more disciplined than their counterparts, serve as elite warriors, often forming the Warboss’s personal guard. Orc Boar Boyz, cavalry units mounted on ferocious war boars, add speed and impact to their otherwise brutal and straightforward tactics. Orc armies also make use of crude war machines, ranging from chariots to cobbled-together catapults, with some even incorporating looted artillery from other factions. Their unpredictable, improvisational approach to warfare is both their strength and weakness.
Oldhammer Lore and Iconography
The Oldhammer depiction of Orcs is vibrant and full of character, often blending exaggerated, comedic elements with their savage nature. The artwork from this era emphasizes their chaotic spirit, portraying them in dynamic, anarchic scenes filled with brawls, battles, and carnage. Orcs in Oldhammer were often shown with oversized features and improvised, ragged gear, reflecting their scavenging and resourceful way of life. This visual style captures both their brutality and their darkly humorous charm, making them an enduring and iconic part of the Warhammer Fantasy universe.
