Of Orcs and Men

This 2012 Role-Playing Game casts you as Arkail, an elite Orc soldier tasked with assassinating the Human Emperor to shift the tide of war against Humankind; you are soon joined by Styx, a Goblin ally. The core gameplay loop centers on utilizing the distinct, complementary skills of both protagonists—the Orc for direct combat and the Goblin for stealth and agility—to navigate environments and overcome challenges. Success hinges on mastering the tactical switching between these two characters to solve puzzles and win battles in this conflict-driven narrative.

This is a role-playing game (RPG) released in late 2012 for PC, Xbox 360, and PlayStation 3. Set in a world steeped in conflict, the narrative centers on the ongoing war between the Orcs and Goblins on one side and the oppressive forces of Humankind on the other. Players step into the boots of Arkail, a seasoned and elite Orc soldier hailing from the legendary Bloodjaws legion. Tasked by his commander with a mission of monumental importance—to assassinate the Emperor responsible for the widespread bloodshed—the player embarks on a journey that could decisively alter the war's trajectory. Early in this quest, Arkail finds himself allied with an unexpected, yet crucial, companion: a Goblin named Styx.

Core Gameplay Loop and Mechanics

The central focus of the experience revolves around the mandatory partnership between the two protagonists, Arkail and Styx. While the game is rooted in the RPG genre, it emphasizes tactical, real-time combat and the dynamic interplay between the two characters, each possessing distinct abilities necessary for overcoming obstacles and enemies.

The primary gameplay loop involves navigating environments, engaging in combat scenarios, and advancing the central plot concerning the war and the assassination mission. Players must utilize the unique strengths of both the Orc warrior and the Goblin operative to progress through the narrative challenges presented by the hostile world.

What makes the combat system unique?

The defining feature of this title is the mandatory dual-protagonist structure. Players directly control both Arkail and Styx, often switching between them on the fly to leverage their specific skill sets. Arkail typically handles direct confrontation and heavy damage, embodying the brute strength of the Orc warrior, while Styx offers stealth, agility, and specialized tactical options essential for infiltration and solving environmental puzzles.

This reliance on complementary skills means that success in combat and exploration often hinges on mastering the transition between the two characters and coordinating their actions effectively against the human adversaries.

Setting and Narrative Focus

The game explores themes of prejudice and alliance within a dark fantasy setting where the Orcs and Goblins are fighting for survival against human persecution. The story drives the player through various locations as Arkail and Styx attempt to forge an unlikely truce between their peoples while pursuing their high-stakes objective.

Available Content Status

As a main game release, this title is self-contained. There are no officially released downloadable content (DLC) packs or major expansions associated with this specific version of the game.

Core Gameplay Loop and Mechanics

What makes the combat system unique?

Setting and Narrative Focus

Available Content Status

As a main game release, this title is self-contained. There are no officially released downloadable content (DLC) packs or major expansions associated with this specific version of the game.