Ossiarch Bonereapers: A Deep Dive Into The Undead Legion

Hey guys! Ever heard of the Ossiarch Bonereapers? If you're into Warhammer Age of Sigmar, you're in for a treat. These skeletal warriors are not your average undead horde. They're disciplined, powerful, and meticulously crafted from the bones of the fallen. Let's dive deep into what makes them so awesome.

What are the Ossiarch Bonereapers?

Ossiarch Bonereapers are the supreme undead legion created by Nagash, the Supreme Lord of the Undead. Unlike the shambling hordes of zombies or the ethereal forms of ghosts, these warriors are constructed from the bones of countless individuals, forged together into powerful and highly disciplined soldiers. Think of them as the elite special forces of the undead – Nagash's personal guard, if you will. They aren't driven by mindless hunger or lingering spirits but by a cold, calculating purpose: to enforce Nagash's will across the Mortal Realms.

The creation of a Bonereaper is a complex and intricate process. It's not just about piling up bones. The Mortisan soul-smiths, masters of necromantic engineering, carefully select and combine bones based on their strength, size, and the skills of the individuals they once belonged to. A single Bonereaper might contain the bones of dozens, even hundreds, of warriors, each contributing their past martial prowess to the composite being. This process ensures that each Bonereaper is not only physically imposing but also possesses a fragment of the skills and memories of those whose bones they bear.

The organization of the Ossiarch Bonereapers is another aspect that sets them apart. They are structured in a rigid, hierarchical manner, mirroring the military formations of the living but with an undead twist. Legions are divided into cohorts, and cohorts into smaller units, each with specific roles and responsibilities. This structured approach allows them to execute complex strategies and tactics with chilling efficiency. They don't just swarm the enemy; they methodically break them down, exploiting weaknesses and pressing advantages with relentless precision. Their battlefield maneuvers are akin to a perfectly oiled machine, each component working in harmony to achieve a singular objective: victory for Nagash.

The Hierarchy and Structure

The hierarchy and structure of the Ossiarch Bonereapers is incredibly rigid and efficient, reflecting their purpose as the supreme enforcers of Nagash's will. Understanding this structure is key to appreciating their tactical prowess and overall effectiveness on the battlefield.

At the very top, you have the Mortarchs, Nagash's most trusted and powerful lieutenants. While not all Mortarchs are exclusively Bonereapers, they exert significant influence over the legions. Below them are the Lieges, the supreme commanders of the Ossiarch armies. These are the generals who lead the Bonereapers in battle, directing their forces with cold, calculating precision. They are masters of strategy and tactics, able to analyze the battlefield and make decisions that maximize their advantages.

Beneath the Lieges are the Mortisan priesthood, the soul-smiths and bone-shapers responsible for creating and maintaining the Bonereapers. These are the necromantic engineers who weave together the bones of the fallen, imbuing them with martial skill and unwavering loyalty. They also play a crucial role in the repair and reconstruction of damaged Bonereapers, ensuring that the legions remain at peak efficiency.

The rank and file of the Ossiarch Bonereapers are divided into various cohorts, each with specialized roles. The Mortek Guard form the backbone of the legions, disciplined infantry units that advance with implacable resolve. The Kavalos Deathriders are swift and deadly cavalry, used for flanking maneuvers and shock assaults. The Immortis Guard are elite bodyguards, tasked with protecting important characters and objectives. And then there are the Necropolis Stalkers, terrifying hunters who stalk the shadows, seeking out and eliminating key targets.

This structured approach extends down to the smallest units, with each warrior knowing their place and purpose within the larger formation. Orders are relayed swiftly and efficiently, and discipline is enforced with ruthless severity. The result is a fighting force that is both incredibly powerful and exceptionally well-coordinated. They move as one, fight as one, and die as one – all in service to Nagash's grand design.

Key Units and Characters

When you're building your Ossiarch Bonereapers army, understanding the key units and characters is crucial. Here’s a rundown of some of the most notable:

• Katakros, Mortarch of the Necropolis: Katakros is the ultimate strategist and commander. He's not just a fighter; he's a tactical genius. His presence on the battlefield significantly enhances the abilities of nearby Bonereapers, making him an invaluable asset. He is also a beast in combat, able to go toe-to-toe with some of the toughest characters in the game.

• Mortek Guard: These are your bread-and-butter infantry. Mortek Guard are resilient, disciplined, and form the unbreakable core of your army. They can hold objectives, screen your more valuable units, and grind down the enemy with their relentless attacks. They're not flashy, but they're essential.

• Kavalos Deathriders: Fast and deadly cavalry units, Kavalos Deathriders are perfect for flanking maneuvers and charging into the enemy's lines. Their impact hits hard, disrupting enemy formations and creating openings for your other units to exploit. They're also great for hunting down enemy artillery or support units.

• Immortis Guard: Think of these guys as the bodyguards. Immortis Guard are elite warriors whose sole purpose is to protect your key characters. They're incredibly tough and can withstand a tremendous amount of punishment, making them ideal for keeping your leaders alive.

• Necropolis Stalkers: These are the hunters of the Ossiarch Bonereapers. Necropolis Stalkers are fast, stealthy, and deadly in close combat. They excel at taking out enemy characters and disrupting enemy plans. They are able to switch fighting styles in combat making them able to adapt to any threat thrown their way.

• Mortisan Soulreaper: A support caster that provides powerful buffs and debuffs to your units and the enemy. Mortisan Soulreapers provide healing and buffs to your units using their Soulreaper ability. The Mortisan also provides a debuff to enemy units making them easier to hit by your army.

Each of these units brings something unique to the table, and a well-balanced Ossiarch Bonereapers army will incorporate a mix of them to maximize its effectiveness.

Nagash, Supreme Lord of the Undead

No discussion about the Ossiarch Bonereapers is complete without mentioning Nagash, the Supreme Lord of the Undead. Nagash is the architect of the Ossiarch Bonereapers, the master necromancer whose will drives their every action. He is the ultimate power behind their legions, and his influence permeates every aspect of their existence.

Nagash's story is one of ambition, betrayal, and ultimate power. He was once a priest-king in the ancient land of Nehekhara, but his thirst for immortality led him down a dark path. He discovered the secrets of necromancy and used them to cheat death, transforming himself into the first and most powerful lich. Through centuries of scheming and conquest, he has amassed a vast empire of the undead, and his ultimate goal is to bring all of the Mortal Realms under his dominion.

The Ossiarch Bonereapers are Nagash's most prized creation, the culmination of his necromantic genius. They are the perfect expression of his will, disciplined, relentless, and utterly loyal. They are not driven by personal ambition or petty desires; they exist solely to serve Nagash's grand design. They are his enforcers, his soldiers, and his instruments of conquest.

Nagash's presence looms large over the Bonereapers, even when he is not physically present on the battlefield. His necromantic energy empowers them, enhancing their strength, resilience, and martial skill. They are connected to him through a network of necromantic conduits, allowing him to communicate with them and direct their actions from afar. In essence, they are extensions of his will, acting in perfect synchronicity with his plans.

For players of the Ossiarch Bonereapers, understanding Nagash's lore and motivations is crucial. It provides context for their actions and adds depth to their overall strategy. Knowing that they are fighting for a being of such immense power and ambition gives their battles a greater sense of purpose. They are not just fighting for territory or resources; they are fighting for the future of the Mortal Realms, a future shaped by the will of Nagash.

Tactics and Strategies

So, how do you actually play the Ossiarch Bonereapers on the tabletop? Their playstyle is all about control, attrition, and overwhelming force. Here are some tactics and strategies to keep in mind:

• Control the battlefield: The Bonereapers excel at holding ground and denying territory to the enemy. Use your Mortek Guard to form a solid defensive line, and use your Kavalos Deathriders to harass the flanks and disrupt enemy movements. The use of terrain to your advantage will help control key points.

• Attrition warfare: Don't be afraid to take a few hits. The Bonereapers are incredibly resilient, and they can weather a lot of punishment. Focus on grinding down the enemy over time, wearing them down with relentless attacks and unwavering defense. Focus on buffing your units with a Mortisan Soulreaper to increase the damage output of your army.

• Synergize your units: The Bonereapers are at their best when their units are working together. Use Katakros to buff your Mortek Guard, and use your Immortis Guard to protect your key characters. Coordinate your attacks to maximize their impact, and always be aware of how your units can support each other.

• Exploit weaknesses: The Bonereapers are not the fastest or most mobile army, but they are incredibly adaptable. Identify the enemy's weaknesses and exploit them ruthlessly. If they're weak against magic, bring a Mortisan Soulreaper. If they're vulnerable to melee attacks, charge in with your Kavalos Deathriders. The Bone Tithe Nexus terrain piece is also very strong, allowing a unit to redeploy anywhere on the battlefield.

• Never underestimate the power of command abilities: The Ossiarch Bonereapers have access to some incredibly powerful command abilities that can turn the tide of battle. Use them wisely, and don't be afraid to spend command points to gain an advantage.

Collecting and Painting

One of the coolest things about the Ossiarch Bonereapers is their unique aesthetic. They're not just skeletons; they're works of art. Collecting and painting them can be a really rewarding experience. The models have a ton of detail, and the bone texture is really fun to work with.

When painting, start with a good primer. Wraithbone is a good color to start with as it provides a warm base for the bone color. Then, use a combination of washes and drybrushing to bring out the details. Experiment with different shades of bone to create a realistic and weathered look. You can also add some color to the armor and weapons to make them stand out. The use of metallic paints is also a good idea, giving your army a nice contrast to the bone armor.

Don't be afraid to get creative! The Ossiarch Bonereapers are a relatively new faction, so there's plenty of room to develop your own unique color schemes and painting techniques. Check out some tutorials online for ideas, and don't be afraid to experiment.

Final Thoughts

The Ossiarch Bonereapers are a fantastic addition to the Warhammer Age of Sigmar universe. They're powerful, unique, and incredibly fun to play. Whether you're a seasoned veteran or a new player, they offer a rewarding and challenging experience. So, if you're looking for a new army to collect, consider joining the ranks of the undead legions. You won't regret it!