Warhammer Total War Codexery

Lizardmen

Ancient reptilian guardians rising to fulfill a cosmic destiny.

The Lizardmen are an ancient race of reptilian humanoids known as Saurians, created by the mysterious Old Ones to serve as guardians of the planet. They operate under a strict caste system and follow the Great Plan, a cosmic design intended to prepare Earth for a future destiny. In the world of Total War, they appear as a defensive powerhouse faction, emerging from hidden ruins to combat threats like Chaos or aggressive human kingdoms. Their society is driven by duty rather than ambition, viewing themselves as shepherds guiding lesser races while protecting the sanctity of the Old Ones' legacy.

Race
Saurian (Lizardmen)
Affiliation
Servants of the Old Ones
Leadership
Slann Mage-Priests
Status
Active Guardians
Primary Enemy
Chaos & Corrupt Mankind
Home Region
Ancient Ruins and Jungles

Lore & Background

Forged in the distant past by the Old Ones, the Lizardmen were tasked with preparing Earth for humanity's eventual rise. When the Great Plan was disrupted by Chaos and the fall of their creators, they retreated into hibernation within stone temples across the world. They sleep until the stars align or a threat to the natural order awakens them. Their civilization is built around sacred rituals and the preservation of knowledge. While lesser races fight for gold or glory, the Saurians fight only to maintain balance. The Slann Mage-Priests hold immense magical power, channeling the energies of the Old Ones to enforce the Great Plan. They view Chaos as a cancer that must be excised from reality. Despite their ancient wisdom, they are often misunderstood by other races who see them as monsters rather than protectors. Their temples dot the landscape, hidden in jungles or mountains, serving as anchors for their magic and resting places for their armies between conflicts.

In Their Own Story

The stone temple hummed with a low vibration that only Saurus could feel. High Priestess Kroxus watched the horizon where smoke rose from human settlements burning under Chaos influence. She raised her staff, feeling the ancient stones awaken beneath her claws. The time of slumber was over; the Great Plan demanded action. Her warriors marched into the mist, scales gleaming like emeralds in the twilight.

Reader's Guide

The Lizardmen were crafted by the enigmatic Old Ones to protect Earth until humanity was ready. In Total War, they play defensively, utilizing powerful magic and summoning units like Carnexi to overwhelm foes. Their armies favor high armor and slow, deliberate advances rather than speed. Key units include Saurus Warriors for the frontline, Skinks for skirmishing, and Slann Mage-Priests who command the battlefield with spells. Players must manage Monoliths to boost magic output while defending sacred ruins from Chaos corruption. The caste system allows specialized roles, from Kroxigor heavy infantry to Cold One cavalry. Campaign objectives focus on restoring the Great Plan by reclaiming lost territories or purging chaotic entities. Success requires patience, strong magical defense, and leveraging their unique summoning mechanics to turn the tide of war against overwhelming odds. They excel at holding ground while attrition wears down enemy forces through relentless magical pressure. Their natural magic resistance makes them resilient against enemy spellcasters, allowing Slann to dominate the arcane battlefield without fear of counter-spells.

Did You Know?

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