If you read our previous guides on Warhammer: The Old World and Bretonnia, you’ll already know that this game thrives on flavourful factions and rich lore. And honestly, few armies deliver that atmosphere quite like the Tomb Kings of Khemri.
These aren’t your typical undead. They’re not mindless zombie hordes raised by the darkest of magic. The Tomb Kings are ancient rulers – proud race and utterly convinced that the world still belongs to them. Marching from the deserts of Nehekhara they bring with them legions of skeletal warriors and a determination that simply refuses to stay buried.
If you like the idea of commanding an army that just keeps coming back, backed up by imposing statues and regal characters, this faction is an absolute classic.
Who Are the Tomb Kings of Khemri?
The Tomb Kings hail from Nehekhara, once a flourishing human civilisation long before the rise of the Empire. Their rulers sought immortality, but instead of eternal life, they were cursed to be forever undead. Now, thousands of years later, they’ve risen again – not as shambling corpses, but as organised legions led by their ancient kings.
What makes them stand out is their sense of order on the battlefield. Unlike earlier undead factions from Warhammers fantasy battles – the Tomb Kings retain their hierarchy and discipline. Their armies march in formation, commanded by Liche Priests and resurrected monarchs who still believe they are rightful rulers of the world.
On the tabletop, that translates into an army that doesn’t rely on morale in the same way as living forces. They don’t panic, they don’t flee – they simply endure.
How the Tomb Kings Play in Warhammer The Old World
If you’re coming from something like Bretonnia, the Tomb Kings feel completely different.
This is a faction built around attrition, positioning and synergy. Your units aren’t individually powerful in the traditional sense, but they work together in a way that grinds your opponent down over time.
- You’ll rely on characters and magical support to keep your army working its best
- Units are often more about holding ground than dealing damage
- Constructs and elite elements provide the real punch when you need it
In short, you’re not trying to win in a single charge – you’re slowly overwhelming your opponent with an army that simply refuses to disappear.
Key Tomb Kings Units and Their Battlefield Roles
Let’s break down some of the core units you’ll see in a Tomb Kings of Khemri army and what they bring to the table.
Skeleton Warriors
Your bread and butter.
Skeleton Warriors form the backbone of most Tomb Kings armies. They’re not particularly strong or durable on their own, but that’s not really the point. These units are all about holding objectives, tying up enemy units, and forming a reliable battle line.
They’re the kind of unit you expect to lose models from – but with the right support, they’ll keep coming back and keep your opponent locked in place.
Skeleton Archers
One of the more interesting ranged options in the game.
Skeleton Archers provide consistent shooting support, and while they won’t delete units outright, they’re great for chipping away at enemies and forcing your opponent to react.
They’re especially useful for softening targets before your heavier units move in.
Skeleton Horsemen & Chariots
This is where the army starts to pick up speed.
- Skeleton Horsemen offer mobility for flanking, screening, and grabbing objectives
- Chariots bring impact hits and offensive pressure, making them one of the more aggressive elements in the army
Chariots in particular are a staple for many players – they give the Tomb Kings a way to actually push into enemy lines rather than just absorbing attacks.
Ushabti
Now we’re talking serious presence.
Ushabti are towering constructs that act as your heavy hitters. Compared to your core infantry, these are far more capable in combat and can deal real damage to enemy units.
They’re ideal for supporting your main battle line – sending them in where you need to break through.
Necropolis Knights
Fast, durable, and genuinely dangerous.
Necropolis Knights combine mobility with strong combat ability, making them one of the most versatile units available. They’re perfect for flanking, hunting key targets, or reinforcing weaker parts of your line.
If you like having a unit that can react to the flow of the game, these are a standout choice.
Screaming Skull Catapult
Classic Tomb Kings.
This artillery piece gives you long-range pressure and helps disrupt your opponent’s plans. It’s great for forcing movement, targeting key units, and adding psychological pressure to the game.
Even if it doesn’t always land devastating hits, it changes how your opponent plays – and that’s valuable in itself.
Tomb King & Liche Priests
The heart of the army.
Your characters are absolutely essential:
- Tomb Kings provide leadership and combat strength
- Liche Priests support the army with magical abilities
Without them, your army loses a lot of its effectiveness. With them, everything starts to click into place.
Why Choose the Tomb Kings of Khemri?
If you’re deciding on your next army for Warhammer: The Old World, the Tomb Kings offer something genuinely different.
- A unique undead playstyle focused on discipline rather than chaos
- Identity rooted in ancient Egyptian-inspired lore
- Infantry, cavalry, monsters and constructs – whats not to like!
- An army that rewards planning and positioning
They’re not the easiest faction to master but that’s part of their appeal. When the stars align it feels incredibly satisfying to watch your opponent struggle against an army that simply won’t die!
Final Thoughts
The Tomb Kings of Khemri are one of those factions that just feel like Warhammer. Ancient empires, cursed rulers, endless legions – it’s all there.
If you enjoyed our Bretonnia guide, this is the perfect contrast. Where Bretonnia charges in with honour and steel, the Tomb Kings advance with inevitability. Slow, relentless, and completely unstoppable when played well.
And honestly? There’s something very satisfying about winning a battle with an army that’s technically already dead.
FAQ – Tomb Kings of Khemri
Are Tomb Kings a good army for beginners?
They can be a bit challenging at first due to their reliance on synergy and characters, but they’re very rewarding once you understand how the army works.
Do Tomb Kings rely heavily on magic?
Yes, magical support from Liche Priests plays a key role in keeping the army effective and enhancing your units.
What makes Tomb Kings different from other undead factions?
Unlike more chaotic undead armies, the Tomb Kings are structured, disciplined, and led by ancient rulers rather than necromancers.
What is the main strength of the Tomb Kings army?
Their ability to outlast opponents through attrition while maintaining a strong battlefield presence.
