The Stronghold is a rather unique faction. I wouldn't say it's overpowered, quite the opposite. It's just... distinctive. Without magic, it's definitely struggling, and no amount of shouts can compensate for that. But at the same time, the rage ability noticeably reduces damage...
By the way, I finished the tests a long time ago - in a duel with an automated opponent, three Orcs lose to everyone except the Academy and the Dungeon.