The *Dishonored* series is renowned for its immersive storytelling and intricate world-building, but with titles like *Dishonored: Death of the Outsider* and *The Brigmore Witches*, navigating the series can be a bit daunting. To help you dive into this steampunk adventure without missing a beat, here's a comprehensive guide on how to experience the *Dishonored* games in the correct order.
Dishonored Games in Release Order
One of the great things about the *Dishonored* series is its straightforward timeline. The games follow a linear narrative, making the release order the same as the chronological order. Here's how to play the *Dishonored* games in the order they were released:
- *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
To fully appreciate the *Dishonored* series, understanding its setting is crucial. The games are set in a steampunk universe governed by emperors and empresses, where nations maintain a fragile peace. Magic exists in this world but is less common than in typical fantasy settings, being linked to The Void—a mysterious dimension inhabited by The Outsider. This enigmatic figure can grant supernatural abilities to individuals, though his reasons remain unclear.
Technology in this world is powered by whale oil, a resource vital for electricity and other innovations, primarily thanks to the genius inventor Anton Sokolov. Whales, considered supernatural beings, provide oil with extraordinary properties. As Corvo Attano, players are thrust into this unique world.
Dishonored Timeline in Chronological Order
Let's delve into where each *Dishonored* game and its DLCs fit into the series' timeline, and provide a brief overview of each, with some mild spoilers included:
1837 – Dishonored: The story begins in Dunwall, where Empress Jessamine Kaldwin is assassinated. Her bodyguard, Corvo Attano, is framed for the murder and imprisoned. With help from The Outsider, Corvo escapes to rescue Jessamine's daughter, Emily, clear his name, and seek justice for the empress. The city is also battling a plague spread by rats.
1837 – Dishonored DLC The Knife of Dunwall: Players take on the role of Daud, the assassin responsible for the empress's death. Summoned by The Outsider, Daud embarks on a quest to find The Brigmore Witches, led by Delilah Copperspoon, a former friend of Jessamine.
1837 – Dishonored DLC The Brigmore Witches: Daud's journey continues as he uncovers Delilah's plot to possess Emily through supernatural means, which he must thwart.
1852 – Dishonored 2: Now an adult, Emily is the empress, with Corvo as her protector. A new threat emerges as Delilah Copperspoon returns, claiming to be the true heir to the throne. Players can choose to play as either Corvo or Emily, with the other character being turned to stone. The mission is to stop Delilah's scheme in the city of Karnaca.
1852 – Dishonored: Death of the Outsider: Players control Billie Lurk, a former follower of Daud, as she rescues him from the Eyeless cult and investigates their activities.
Do You Need to Play Dishonored Before Dishonored 2?
While not mandatory, playing *Dishonored* first can enhance your understanding of the series. It introduces The Outsider, a pivotal character whose influence is felt throughout the games.
Do You Need to Play Dishonored's DLC Before Dishonored 2?
The DLCs are not essential for enjoying *Dishonored 2*, but they're highly recommended if you plan to play *Death of the Outsider*. They provide deeper insight into characters like Billie Lurk and her relationship with Daud. The Definitive Edition of *Dishonored*, available on PlayStation 4, Xbox One, and PC, includes these DLCs, making it a great value for players.
Is It Easier to Play the Dishonored Games in Any Particular Order?
Starting with *Dishonored* is advisable as it introduces the game mechanics and the supernatural powers bestowed by The Outsider. Playing the games in release order will provide a smoother learning curve and a more cohesive narrative experience.
Who Are the Main Characters in the Dishonored Series?
Here are the key figures in the *Dishonored* series, with some spoilers:
Corvo Attano: The protagonist of the first game, he serves as Empress Jessamine Kaldwin's Royal Protector and Spymaster, and is also her lover and father to Emily Kaldwin.
Emily Kaldwin: Daughter of Corvo and Jessamine, she grows from a child in the first game to a skilled fighter and diplomat in *Dishonored 2*.
The Outsider: A mysterious entity residing in The Void, he grants supernatural powers to select individuals, though his motives are unclear.
Daud: An assassin empowered by The Outsider, he kills Jessamine but later regrets his actions and seeks redemption.
Billie Lurk / Meagan Foster: Daud's apprentice and later second-in-command, she becomes the protagonist of *Dishonored: Death of the Outsider*.
And that's how to play the *Dishonored* games in order, ensuring you get the most out of this captivating series.
*The above article was updated on 1/21/25 by the original author to include additional information about the order of the Dishonored games.*
