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, Dishonored's release order mirrors its chronological timeline. There are no prequels.
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)
The World of Dishonored:
The Dishonored universe is a steampunk setting ruled by emperors and empresses, with a fragile peace and a unique magic system tied to The Void and The Outsider, a mysterious entity who grants supernatural abilities. Whale oil, derived from supernatural whales, fuels many inventions, a key element of the world's economy.
Chronological Breakdown (with Spoilers):
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1837 – Dishonored: Empress Jessamine Kaldwin's assassination frames Corvo Attano, her bodyguard. He escapes, aided by The Outsider, to rescue Emily, Jessamine's daughter, clear his name, and expose the true assassins amidst a city-wide plague.
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1837 – The Knife of Dunwall: Players control Daud, the empress's assassin, summoned by The Outsider to hunt the Brigmore Witches, including Delilah Copperspoon.
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1837 – The Brigmore Witches: Daud's quest continues, thwarting Delilah's attempt to possess Emily.
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1852 – Dishonored II: Emily, now empress, faces a new threat: Delilah Copperspoon, claiming to be the rightful heir. Players control either Corvo or Emily, while the other is petrified. The action shifts to Karnaca.
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1852 – Dishonored: Death of the Outsider: Billie Lurk, Daud's former apprentice, rescues him from a cult and investigates their activities.
Playing Order Recommendations:
While Dishonored II is playable without prior experience, playing the first game enhances understanding of The Outsider's influence. The DLC is less crucial for Dishonored II, but highly recommended before Death of the Outsider to appreciate Billie Lurk's backstory. The Dishonored Definitive Edition (PS4, Xbox One, PC) includes all DLC.
Main Characters:
- Corvo Attano: Empress Jessamine's protector, lover, and Emily's father.
- Emily Kaldwin: Jessamine's daughter, a capable fighter and diplomat in the second game.
- The Outsider: A mysterious entity granting powers.
- Daud: The empress's assassin, later regretful.
- Billie Lurk: Daud's apprentice, protagonist of Death of the Outsider.
Starting with Dishonored and following the release order provides the smoothest gameplay and narrative experience. This guide ensures a comprehensive understanding of the Dishonored universe.
(Updated 1/21/25 to include additional information.)
