The Dishonored series, with titles like Dishonored: Death of the Outsider and The Brigmore Witches, can be confusing. This guide clarifies the optimal playing order.
Release Order vs. Chronological Order:
Unlike some game franchises, the Dishonored timeline is straightforward. The release order mirrors the chronological order of events.
Playing Order:
- Dishonored (2012)
- The Knife of Dunwall (Dishonored DLC) (2013)
- The Brigmore Witches (Dishonored DLC) (2013)
- Dishonored II (2016)
- Dishonored: Death of the Outsider (2017)
Game World Overview:
Dishonored unfolds in a Steampunk world ruled by emperors and empresses, where uneasy peace prevails. Magic, linked to The Void (a parallel dimension inhabited by The Outsider), grants supernatural abilities. Whale oil, a byproduct of supernatural whales, fuels much of the technology, a key element devised by Anton Sokolov. The player embodies Corvo Attano within this unique setting.
Chronological Breakdown (with Spoilers):
- 1837 – Dishonored: Empress Jessamine Kaldwin's assassination frames Corvo Attano, leading him on a quest for redemption and Emily's rescue amidst a rat-borne plague.
- 1837 – The Knife of Dunwall: Daud, the empress's assassin, is tasked by The Outsider to hunt the Brigmore Witches, including Delilah Copperspoon.
- 1837 – The Brigmore Witches: Daud continues his pursuit, thwarting Delilah's attempt to possess Emily.
- 1852 – Dishonored II: Empress Emily Kaldwin faces Delilah Copperspoon's claim to the throne, forcing a journey to Karnaca. The player controls either Corvo or Emily.
- 1852 – Dishonored: Death of the Outsider: Billie Lurk, Daud's former apprentice, investigates the Eyeless cult.
Playing Order Recommendations:
While not strictly required, playing Dishonored first enhances understanding of The Outsider's influence. The DLC is less crucial for Dishonored II, but essential for fully appreciating Death of the Outsider and Billie Lurk's connection to Daud. The Dishonored Definitive Edition conveniently bundles the DLC.
Ease of Play:
Starting with Dishonored provides a solid foundation for the series' mechanics and powers.
Main Characters:
- Corvo Attano: Empress Jessamine's protector, lover, and Emily's father.
- Emily Kaldwin: Corvo and Jessamine's daughter, a capable leader in Dishonored II.
- The Outsider: A mysterious entity granting powers.
- Daud: The empress's assassin, later seeking redemption.
- Billie Lurk: Daud's apprentice, protagonist of Death of the Outsider.
(This article was updated on 1/21/25 to incorporate additional information regarding the Dishonored game order.)
