The Dishonored series, with titles like 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. No prequels exist. Here's the release order:
- Dishonored (2012)
- The Knife of Dunwall (Dishonored DLC) (2013)
- The Brigmore Witches (Dishonored DLC) (2013)
- Dishonored 2 (2016)
- Dishonored: Death of the Outsider (2017)
The World of Dishonored: A Quick 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 many inventions, devised largely by Anton Sokolov. You play as Corvo Attano, navigating this unique setting.
Chronological Gameplay Order & Story Summaries (Minor Spoilers)
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1837 – Dishonored: Empress Jessamine Kaldwin's assassination frames Corvo Attano. He escapes, aided by The Outsider, to rescue Emily, clear his name, and expose the true assassins amidst a city-wide plague.
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1837 – The Knife of Dunwall: Playing as Daud, the empress's assassin, you're tasked 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 2: Emily, now empress, faces a new threat: Delilah Copperspoon, claiming to be the rightful heir. You play as either Corvo or Emily, fighting Delilah's plot in 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 2 is playable without prior experience, playing the first game enhances understanding of The Outsider's influence. The DLC is less crucial for Dishonored 2, but highly recommended before Death of the Outsider to fully appreciate Billie Lurk's character arc. The Dishonored Definitive Edition (PS4, Xbox One, PC) includes all DLC.
Starting with Dishonored provides a smoother introduction to the game mechanics and The Outsider's powers.
Key Characters (Major Spoilers)
- Corvo Attano: Empress Jessamine's protector, lover, and Emily's father.
- Emily Kaldwin: Corvo and Jessamine's daughter, a capable leader in Dishonored 2.
- 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 updated guide (1/21/25) provides a comprehensive overview of the Dishonored series' optimal playing order and storyline.
