Half-Orcs

(Dragon #62)

Roger wraps up his exploration of PHB races with half-orcs, focusing on orc society and how half-orcs fit in. This approach makes this article already more useful than his piece on half-elves.

What’s it about?

Orcs are social Darwinists, where only the strong and clever thrive. They must survive in harsh environments, forcing the weak into servitude or eliminating them to preserve resources. Friendship and love are seen as weaknesses to exploit.  Orcs are made this way by their gods. Orc tribes eternally war with other tribes for food and territory. 

Orc women are relegated to childbearing and maintaining the cave, which feels uninspired. Orcs live entirely in the present, with no concern for the future. Half-orcs often excel in orc bands, using their intelligence to rise to leadership positions. 

The article also touches on orc religion, their relationships with other humanoids, and their enmity with elves—rooted in their oppositional natures (short life vs. long life, short-term vs. long-term views). Personally, Corellon shooting out Gruumsh’s eye feels like a more compelling basis for their grudge, especially given the active role orc gods play in the lives of their tribes.

Anything insightful?

• The "survival of the fittest" and short-term mindset make orcs distinct from other PHB races.
• Smart half-orcs as the leader of orc bands is a good idea.

Should I share this with my players?  

Yes. Approaching half-orcs through an orcish lens makes for compelling characters. This is making the ‘best of’ list.