If you like Orcs but you want to play something a little different on the tabletop then how about the Riftforged Orcs of Kings Of War from Mantic Games? This is one of the newest factions that will soon be gracing the battlefields of Pannithor.

Riftforged Orcs With Hammers // Kings Of War

In a recent article, the team at Mantic went into detail as to how these Orcs have come to be in the world of Pannithor...

"Their twisted bodies animated by the power of a raging storm, their souls infused with very essence of the Nexus, the orcs that emerged from Garkan’s flesh forges were unlike any that had come before them. Their cracked skin was of a green-grey hue, and broader, more muscular, and yet possessed of a cruel cunning and impressive martial prowess, these ‘Riftforged orcs’ were truly Garkan’s finest creation.

But there was more to these creatures than mere brute strength. Their affinity with the rift-storms brought about by the Nexus of Power manifested in crackling energy, which wreathed their bodies and lent strength to their sword-arms. The more Riftforged orcs gathered, the greater this power became, and with extraordinary swiftness the young race began to master this energy, fuelling it with their battle-rage."

So not only do these Orcs embody the power and strength of their race as you'd traditional expect but also the raging tempest of the storm. A very cool idea that makes them quite the force to be reckoned with on the tabletop I don't doubt!

Riftforged Orcs With Shields // Kings Of War

I have to say, I really like the new look of these Orcs. I am always in two minds about a lot of the Kings Of War range but these new Orcs are just awesome. They look big, brutal, hefty and absolutely murderous. I like the style of their armour in particularly which is more fit for purpose and not simply bodged together on the fly.

This is by no means the only set of releases and previews we've seen for the Riftforged Orcs either. There are loads of characters, monsters and more landing for this faction, bulking them put and making them into a seriously fine fighting force.

Stormcaller & Riftforger // Kings Of War

I like the idea that hammers and storms are worked into all aspects of their design and aesthetic. It makes them stand out from other Orc forces on the tabletop and is also a cheeky little nod to the Stormcast Eternals I don't doubt!

Thunderseers // Kings Of War

One thing that Mantic does really well is monsters and monstrous infantry and this gives you just a little peek at some of the creatures they have designed for the Riftforged Orcs. This Stormslayer for example looks absolutely amazing.

Stormslayer // Kings Of War

Loads of additional characters and warriors are on the way for those wanting to make this their army of choice. You might have noticed one of them on the front cover of the latest Clash Of Kings book too. Well, he's coming to the tabletop too!

Riftforged Orcs Art // Kings Of War

If you don't fancy collecting them as a full army you could always dive in and make a force for the likes of Vanguard if you prefer. That would give you a taste of the faction without having to submerge yourself in miniatures!

What do you think of their overall look and could you see yourself picking them up?