Ossiarch Bonereapers: A Deep Dive Into The Undead Legion

Hey guys! Today, we're diving deep into the world of the Ossiarch Bonereapers, a truly unique and terrifying faction in the Age of Sigmar. If you're looking for a disciplined, powerful, and undeniably cool undead army, then you've come to the right place. Forget shambling hordes; these are the elite, the meticulously crafted legions of Nagash, and they’re here to bring order to the Mortal Realms – whether you like it or not!

What are the Ossiarch Bonereapers?

The Ossiarch Bonereapers stand apart from other undead factions in Age of Sigmar. They aren't just mindless zombies or spectral ghosts. These are constructs of bone, soul-stuff, and martial prowess, forged in the image of Nagash's will. They are the ultimate expression of order and control, built to conquer and enforce Nagash's dominion. Imagine Roman legions made of bone, animated by powerful souls and driven by an unwavering sense of duty. That’s the essence of the Bonereapers. Their creation process is fascinatingly grim. Nagash, the Supreme Lord of the Undead, doesn't just raise corpses. He meticulously selects bone from worthy warriors across the realms, combines it with mortis anima (soul energy), and binds it together with necromantic magic. The resulting Ossiarch warriors are stronger, more resilient, and far more intelligent than your average skeleton. Each Bonereaper is essentially a composite being, embodying the skills and experiences of the warriors whose bones they are made from. This gives them a unique edge on the battlefield, making them adaptable and capable of executing complex strategies.

The Legions of Nagash needed a standing army, and the Bonereapers are it. They are not driven by the hunger for living flesh or the desire for destruction. They are cold, calculating, and utterly devoted to their purpose: to bring order to the Mortal Realms under Nagash's rule. This makes them a particularly frightening foe because they are not motivated by emotion or irrationality. They are simply fulfilling their programmed purpose with ruthless efficiency. On the tabletop, this translates to an army that is incredibly resilient, disciplined, and capable of both dishing out and taking a beating. They excel at holding ground, grinding down the enemy, and executing precise tactical maneuvers. If you enjoy playing armies that are methodical, reliable, and strategically deep, the Ossiarch Bonereapers might be the perfect fit for you. They offer a unique playstyle that rewards careful planning and skillful execution.

Lore and History of the Bonereapers

The lore behind the Ossiarch Bonereapers is rich and compelling, adding depth to their already imposing presence. These aren't just mindless automatons; they have a history, a purpose, and a complex social structure that sets them apart from other undead factions. Their origins are deeply intertwined with Nagash's grand design for the Mortal Realms. After countless defeats and betrayals, Nagash sought to create an army that was utterly loyal and perfectly obedient. He needed warriors who wouldn't question his commands, wouldn't succumb to fear or doubt, and wouldn't be swayed by the temptations of chaos. Thus, the Ossiarch Bonereapers were born. They are the culmination of Nagash's necromantic mastery, a testament to his unwavering ambition and his relentless pursuit of absolute control.

The history of the Ossiarch Bonereapers is one of conquest and subjugation. They have marched across the Mortal Realms, crushing all who oppose Nagash's will. They are the enforcers of his dominion, the iron fist that maintains order in his undead empire. They have fought in countless battles, against daemons, beasts, and even other undead factions. Their victories are numerous, and their reputation is fearsome. The Bonereapers are not just warriors; they are also builders and administrators. They oversee the construction of necropolises, the collection of tithes, and the enforcement of Nagash's laws. They are the backbone of his empire, the engine that drives his expansion. Their society is rigidly hierarchical, with each Bonereaper occupying a specific rank and fulfilling a specific role. This structure ensures efficiency and obedience, making them a highly effective fighting force. At the top of the hierarchy are the Mortarchs, the most powerful and influential of Nagash's servants. They command the Bonereaper legions and lead them into battle. Beneath them are the Lieges, the generals and officers who oversee the day-to-day operations of the army. And below them are the Morteks, the rank-and-file soldiers who make up the bulk of the Bonereaper forces. This rigid structure, combined with their unwavering loyalty and their formidable martial skills, makes the Ossiarch Bonereapers a force to be reckoned with.

Key Units and Characters

The Ossiarch Bonereapers army is filled with impressive units and characters, each contributing to the overall strength and tactical flexibility of the faction. Let's take a look at some of the standouts that make this army so compelling on the tabletop.

• Katakros, Mortarch of the Necropolis: Arguably the most impressive model in the range, Katakros is not just a powerful warrior but a brilliant strategist. He buffs nearby units and can single-handedly turn the tide of battle. Katakros is a must-have for any serious Bonereapers player. His presence on the battlefield inspires his troops, making them even more resilient and deadly. He is a master of tactics, able to anticipate his opponent's moves and counter them with ruthless efficiency.
• Mortek Guard: These are your bread-and-butter troops. Heavily armored and surprisingly resilient, they form the backbone of your army. Mortek Guard are excellent for holding objectives and grinding down the enemy in prolonged engagements. Their shields provide excellent protection, and their spears can deliver a deadly thrust. They are the unwavering core of the Bonereaper legions.
• Necropolis Stalkers: Elite melee units that can switch fighting styles on the fly, adapting to different threats. Necropolis Stalkers are perfect for flanking maneuvers and taking down heavily armored opponents. Each Stalker embodies the skills of multiple warriors, allowing them to adapt to any combat situation. They are swift, deadly, and utterly relentless.
• Mortek Crawler: This artillery piece hurls bone-shattering projectiles across the battlefield, providing crucial ranged support. Mortek Crawlers can devastate enemy formations and soften up key targets before your main forces engage. Their bone-shattering ammunition is incredibly effective against heavily armored units and fortifications. They are the siege engines of the Bonereaper legions.

These are just a few of the key units and characters in the Ossiarch Bonereapers army. Each unit has its own unique strengths and weaknesses, allowing you to build a variety of different army lists to suit your playstyle. Whether you prefer a slow and grinding advance, a swift and flanking attack, or a balanced approach, the Bonereapers have the tools you need to succeed.

Tactics and Strategies

Playing the Ossiarch Bonereapers effectively requires a good understanding of their strengths and weaknesses. They are not the fastest army, but they are incredibly resilient and can dish out a surprising amount of damage. Here are a few key tactics and strategies to keep in mind:

• Resilience is Key: The Bonereapers excel at weathering the storm. Use their high armor saves and abilities to shrug off damage and outlast your opponents. Don't be afraid to take a beating; you can probably handle it better than they can. This makes them particularly effective in objective-based scenarios, where holding ground is crucial.
• Synergy is Your Friend: Many Bonereaper units have abilities that buff nearby allies. Position your units carefully to maximize these synergies and create a powerful, cohesive fighting force. Katakros, in particular, is a master of this, boosting the effectiveness of nearby units with his presence.
• Control the Battlefield: The Bonereapers are excellent at controlling territory and dictating the terms of engagement. Use your durable units to hold key objectives and force your opponent to come to you. This allows you to grind them down at your own pace, wearing them down with attrition.
• Mortek Crawlers for Support: Don't underestimate the power of the Mortek Crawlers. These artillery pieces can provide crucial ranged support, softening up enemy targets before your main forces engage. Position them carefully to maximize their range and line of sight.

By mastering these tactics and strategies, you can unlock the full potential of the Ossiarch Bonereapers and lead them to victory on the tabletop. They are a challenging but rewarding army to play, offering a unique blend of resilience, power, and strategic depth.

Why Play Ossiarch Bonereapers?

So, why should you choose the Ossiarch Bonereapers as your army in Age of Sigmar? Here are a few compelling reasons:

• Unique Aesthetic: The Bonereapers have a distinctive and imposing look that sets them apart from other armies. Their bone constructs are both terrifying and beautiful, a testament to Nagash's twisted genius.
• Strategic Depth: The Bonereapers offer a rewarding playstyle that emphasizes careful planning and tactical execution. They are not a