Ogryn

Ogryns are a human subspecies (called "abhumans") that are large and physically powerful, evolved from Human colonists stranded on high-gravity planets, adapting to these conditions over enough time that they have exaggerated physical characteristics, but diminished higher functions to favor survival instincts.

They are tolerated by the xenophobic Imperium of Man by virtue of Ogryns possessing many traits prized by the Imperium; they are brutally strong and completely loyal, although extremely limited intellectually. They are limited to simple labor or as bodyguards within civilian society, but they are much more often seen in a military role, often employed as shock troopers in the Astra Militarum's Militarum Auxilla. Their diminished intellect restricts their battlefield role to simple positions, typically as bodyguards for officers and direct assaults.

Ogryns compensate for their mental deficiencies with overwhelming physicality -- the brutish creatures stand around ten Terran feet tall and can shrug off wounds that would kill an Imperial Guardsman several times over. These qualities mean that Ogryns make exceptional shock troops, and are often deployed on the front lines of battle by Imperial commanders.

It is fair to say that Ogryns do have their limitations. Their equipment must be simple and exceptionally rugged, as anything within arm's reach is likely to see brief and violent service as an improvised club. Their heavily built Ripper Guns must also be fitted with burst limiters to stop the Ogryns from firing ceaselessly -- thirty solar seconds of noisy enjoyment can easily leave these Abhumans short of ammunition before a battle has even begun.

Ogryns are easily confused, meaning they work best when given simple, straightforward missions, and their lack of personal hygiene borders on the criminal. However, once indoctrinated into the Imperial Creed they are doggedly loyal, and their strength and resilience make them a potent weapon.