The Warhammer world would not be what it is without the presence of great lords, valiant heroes and mighty Wizards. Such powerful individuals add a new dimension to your games of Warhammer: the Old World, either as inspiring leaders or skilled warriors able to trounce hordes of lesser fighters. Such potent personages are called 'characters'.

Characters are generally known by different names appropriate to their nation or race. Orc characters, for example, are known by suitably 'Orcy' names, such as Boss and Warboss, whilst the leaders of the Empire are Captains, Warrior Priests and Engineers.

The types of character available to an army will vary to reflect the personality of that army. Most races of the Warhammer world can call upon the services of powerful fighters and wise Wizards in equal measure, some have unique types of specialist character, and a few have jack-of-all-trades characters that are adept in many different aspects of war.