Battle Report - Stand against the horde (Orcs vs Empire & High Elves)

Here follows a brief account of a 4-player,  2,500 point battle between a mighty Orc and Goblin horde and the stout defenders of order (a combined force of Empire and High Elves).  The game was played as a pitched battle, for a duration of 7 possible turns.

The large Orc Horde consists of both large groups of infantry (Orcs, Black Orcs and Goblins) alongside more mobile forces comprising a large number of Boar Boyz, supported by Goblin Wolf Riders and Chariots.  Two rock lobbers also accompany the horde into battle.  The Orcs also field a large number of characters, including heroes riding Chariots and a Wyvern as well as 4 Shaman to get the green magic flowing.

By comparison the Empire and High Elf forces consist of a significant body of armoured knights (both Empire Knights and Silver Helms) supported by a unit of high elf chariots.  Both High Elves and Empire also field a decent number of infantry, with large numbers of bow and crossbow troops included.  The Empire also field a unit of cannon and a Steam Tank.  Two Wizards accompany the twin Generals and single Empire Hero into battle.

The Orcs deploy their Rock Lobbers on a small rise, and then send their Orc Warriors out to meet the enemy.  Behind them march the fearsome Black Orcs, and bringing up the rear the massed line of Boar Boyz.

The Empire deploy their cannons on an opposing hill and the knights form up in two main groups in the centre of the battle line, supported by ranks of infantry.

The initial turns of the battle are tentative, with both sides advancing cautiously - careful not to let their units get too far from their support.  On both sides the infantry press forward, while the cavalry position themselves for a major counterstrike.

The only exception is the Giant, who charges into the pristine massed ranks of Silver Helms causing considerable chaos.  The Giant is eventually cut down by the elves with the help of a Weird Enchantment cast by the Empire Wizard, but not before he has weakened two of their units.  This sudden brutal violence clearly shakes the confidence of the noble elves...

Meanwhile the surging Orc Warriors are driven back by well placed fire from Empire crossbows and magically-infused elf archers. The Goblin Shaman supports their advance, causing Elf chariots to withdraw before they can crash into the greenskins, and driving the cannons from the hill. Some of the Orcs reach the elf lines, but are driven back by thrusting spears.  Sensing an opportunity, the Empire Knights charge into the flanks of the Orcs, slaying many of them.

However, the Orcs now unleash their most potent weapon.  The Boar Boyz charge forward led by heroes on Wyvern and Chariot, while the Shaman infuse them with the magical power of the Waaagh. The slaughter is fearsome, and many of the Empire and Elf forces are cut down as the Orcs burst through their carefully ordered lines.


In response the Empire knights surge forward, and slay many of the Orcs who have survived the charge (including both Orc heroes) and then both Empire and Elf Wizards unleash terrifying magics upon the green horde, inflicting further damage. The Empire and Elf casualties have been high, and their armies morale is wavering. 

The Orcs and Goblins have suffered many casualties, but their numbers mean they are still willing to fight on - however the massed elf Silver Helms have not yet been committed to the battle as they are still shaken from their encounter with the Giant so victory is within the grasp of the alliance.  The battle hangs in the balance with just one turn left to play.

Now the Orcs commit their last reserves, Goblin Wolf Riders surge forward, infused with the magic of Waaagh.  They cut down a unit of frothing flagellants who try to stop them, and ride on into the Silver Helms slaying many of the knights, while Goblin Wolf Chariots mow down the last of the Empire knights.  Realising this is the last chance for victory, even the Orc General joins the fight.  It is enough, and confronted with the fresh assault the Elf and Empire forces buckle and flee, withdrawing from the field.  Victory to the Orcs!