Half-Orcs Species in The Arbour Coast | World Anvil

Half-Orcs

Description:

Half-orcs are the result of crossbreeding between humans and orcs. Such creatures tend to be outcasts within Human communities, but sometimes rise to positions of leadership within orcish communities. Half-orcs are a bit shorter than humans. Their features tend to favor the orcish parent. An average Half-orc male in good health stands around six feet tall and weighs about 185 pounds. Most Half-orcs live around 70 years.  

Morals and Ethics:

Due to their orcish bloodline, half-orcs often have a natural inclination towards aggression and combat. While this doesn’t mean they are always violent or barbaric, their cultural upbringing and orcish instincts can manifest in a more assertive or forceful demeanor.   Half-orcs possess a level of adaptability that stems from their mixed heritage. This adaptability can manifest in various ways, such as learning to navigate different social environments, blending orcish tenacity with human cunning, or embracing versatility in their chosen professions or roles.

Views on Race:

  • Dwarves: Half-orcs respect dwarves for their renowned skill in craftsmanship and their prowess in battle. Dwarven weapons and armor are often highly valued, and half-orcs may appreciate the durability and effectiveness of these items. On the other hand, tension can arise between the two races. Dwarves might see half-orcs as uncivilized or brutish, while half-orcs might resent perceived arrogance or aloofness from the dwarves. 
  • Halflings: Half-orcs, often priding themselves as physically robust and imposing, view halflings as small and potentially fragile. Still, some half-orcs who spend a extended period of time with the small race appreciate their adaptability, seeing halflings as individuals who can navigate situations with finesse where they can't.
  • Humans: Half-orcs can tend to feel a strong connection to humanity. They appreciate the shared characteristics and experiences with humans, such as ambition and adaptability. On the other hand, half-orcs tend to experience biases from humans. In such cases, their view of humans is tainted by negative experiences and being treated poorly.
  • Elves: Half-orcs tend to view elves as physically frail or lacking in the raw power they themselves possess and even too refined or aloof. Elves are frequently associated with magic, particularly arcane and nature magic. Half-orcs view this with suspicion, especially when their own magical traditions are more shamanistic in their approaches.

Race Restrictions:

Half-orcs have no minimum or maximum ability score requirements.  

Class Restrictions:

Half-orcs may become members of any class. A half-orc must have a minimum Constitution of 9, and are limited to a maximum Intelligence of 17.

Special Abilities:

Half-orcs gain a bonus of 5% on all earned experience. When dealing with humanoids of human-size or smaller, a half-orc gains an additional +1 on any reaction die roll, in addition to their Charisma bonus.  

Saving Throws:

Half-orcs save at +1 vs. Death Ray or Poison.

HALF-ORC CHARTS

 
Ability Requirements CON 9 or higher, INT 17 or lower
Classes Any
Hit Die Any
Weapons Large weapons require two hands
Special
  • +5% to all earned experience
  • +1 on reaction die roll when dealing with humanoids of human-size or smaller
Save Bonus +1 vs. Death Ray or Poison
Languages
  • Common, Orcish
  • +1 / point of INT bonus
Description Typically about 6' tall, 185 lbs, and lives about 70 years.
Geographic Distribution
Related Organizations
Related Ethnicities