Navigating the *Dishonored* series can be a bit tricky with titles like *Dishonored: Death of the Outsider* and *The Brigmore Witches*. To help you enjoy the series to its fullest, let's outline the *Dishonored* games in the order they were released, which also reflects their chronological timeline.
The *Dishonored* series follows a straightforward timeline with no prequels, making the release order the ideal way to experience the story:
Understanding the setting of *Dishonored* can enhance your gameplay. The series unfolds in a Steampunk-inspired world, governed by emperors and empresses, where a fragile peace exists among nations. Magic, though not as common as in some fantasy worlds, plays a crucial role, emanating from The Void—a mysterious dimension home to The Outsider. This enigmatic entity grants supernatural abilities to selected individuals, often for reasons that remain unclear.
The technology in this world is powered by whale oil, a potent resource due to the supernatural nature of whales. This oil drives inventions created by the genius Anton Sokolov, making whaling a significant industry. As Corvo Attano, you're thrust into this complex and intriguing world.
Here's a detailed breakdown of where each *Dishonored* game and DLC fits into the series timeline, with mild spoilers included:
1837 – Dishonored: The story begins in Dunwall with the assassination of Empress Jessamine Kaldwin. Her bodyguard, Corvo Attano, is framed for the murder and imprisoned. With The Outsider's aid, Corvo escapes to rescue Jessamine’s daughter, Emily, clear his name, and seek justice amidst a rat-borne plague.
1837 – Dishonored DLC The Knife of Dunwall: You take on the role of Daud, the assassin responsible for Jessamine's death. Summoned by The Outsider, Daud's quest leads him to pursue The Brigmore Witches and Delilah Copperspoon, a former friend of the late empress.
1837 – Dishonored DLC The Brigmore Witches: Daud continues his mission, uncovering Delilah's plot to possess Emily, which he must thwart.
1852 – Dishonored 2: Now an adult, Emily is empress, with Corvo as her protector. A serial killer threatens the peace, and Delilah Copperspoon returns, claiming to be Jessamine's sister and rightful heir. You can play as either Corvo or Emily, who must flee to Karnaca to counter Delilah's plot.
1852 – Dishonored: Death of the Outsider: Billie Lurk, once Daud's follower, rescues him from the Eyeless cult and delves into their sinister activities.
While it's not mandatory, playing *Dishonored* first will enrich your understanding of The Outsider's role and influence in the series.
The DLC isn't crucial for *Dishonored 2*, but it's highly recommended before *Death of the Outsider* to better understand Billie Lurk's background and her connection to Daud. The Definitive Edition of *Dishonored*, available on PlayStation 4, Xbox One, and PC, includes the DLC, offering a comprehensive experience.
Starting with *Dishonored* is advisable as it introduces the mechanics and the limitations of The Outsider's powers, making the subsequent games more enjoyable and understandable.
Here's a look at the major characters in the *Dishonored* series, with potential spoilers ahead:
Corvo Attano: The protagonist of the first game, Corvo serves as the Royal Protector and Spymaster to Empress Jessamine Kaldwin, and is also Emily's father.
Emily Kaldwin: Daughter of Corvo and Jessamine, Emily grows from a child into a capable fighter and diplomat by *Dishonored 2*.
The Outsider: A mysterious figure residing in The Void, The Outsider grants supernatural abilities to chosen individuals, with motives that remain enigmatic.
Daud: An assassin empowered by The Outsider, Daud leads his group until he assassinates Jessamine and later seeks redemption.
Billie Lurk / Meagan Foster: Daud's apprentice and eventual protagonist of *Dishonored: Death of the Outsider*, Billie has a complex relationship with Daud.
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.