Review: Sigmar’s Toll

Sigmar’s Toll is a three-part animated series for Warhammer Age of Sigmar, released on Warhammer TV, serving as a prequel to Warhammer Underworlds. Viewers will see the forces of the Hallowed Knights and the rat-like Skaven contend against each, as well as within themselves. Amid all this, the recycling of souls, and its ultimate cost, may soon play out.

 

The three-parter starts with “Morrda’s Echo,” which sees Embergard dealing with the fallout of the Skaven. Long nights become filled with fire and blood, with the Hallowed Knights set on saving what appears to be the only city left standing. Meanwhile, even the Skaven sense a hint of fear in the air. This segues into Grey Seer Vreek and Warlord Skabpelt, both plotting to obtain glory, and the precious Emberstone deposit found beneath Embergard, even if that means subduing the other.

 

All the while, Knight-Questor Leodus seeks guidance in Sigmar. A prayer leads to a vision of a mountain citadel and a journey. Before things come to a close, viewers will be treated to an appearance from the Prosecutors, the avenging angels of the Stormcast forces.

 

 

The second episode, “Soul-thin,” sees the two opposing forces continue their plans. Leodus seeks aid from the Ruination Chamber, while the Skaven plan to unveil a new weapon. In fact, the Skaven would even kill each other to prevent news of this weapon from coming out, setting up the threat it can unleash. Through this, Skabpelt also helps to lead his forces into battle without the aid of the seer. One figure could help turn the tide of battle by the episode’s end.

 

The third installment, “Final Death,” sees the Reclusians learn the true nature of the Skavens’ new weapon. Meanwhile, the cost of an ongoing cycle between life and death looms in the background, as seen in the rite that gives the episode its name. One character’s fate might soon be sealed by the story’s end.

 

The animation is decent, resembling the games at times while gradually taking things in its own direction. First going into it, some viewers might find things visually too dark. Patience will pay off, since it highlights the moments that call forth light and energy all the more. For example, this makes the appearance of the angelic Prosecutors, who light up the sky like a storm, all the more eye-catching, not to mention “shocking.”

 

The plot mostly draws from “Assault on Hel’s Claw,” so it focuses on established lore more than introducing more. For many, one thing to enjoy is how the story evolves into a study in contrast as it goes on. While the two forces start off battling each other, they are not without internal battles amid their own ranks, even in different ways.

 

The Skaven arguably aren’t showcased in all their villainous glory, but they are still fun to watch. Many fans don’t seem to like that the series was only a three-parter, but something must have been done right when viewers are left wanting more.