The *Dishonored* series is renowned for its immersive storytelling and complex world, but with titles like *Dishonored: Death of the Outsider* and *The Brigmore Witches*, navigating the series can be a bit challenging. To help you through, we've laid out the *Dishonored* games in order, ensuring you can enjoy the narrative without missing a beat.
Dishonored Games in Release Order
Unlike some series, the *Dishonored* timeline is straightforward without any prequels, meaning the release order is the same as the chronological order. Here's how you can dive into the *Dishonored* universe:
- 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
Before delving deeper, understanding the *Dishonored* world is crucial. Set in a Steampunk universe, it's governed by emperors and empresses, where peace is often uneasy. Magic is scarce, primarily linked to The Void, a mysterious dimension home to The Outsider, who grants supernatural abilities to chosen individuals, though his motives remain unclear.
The society thrives on whale oil, thanks to the genius inventor Anton Sokolov, whose inventions power the realm's technology. Whales, being supernatural, make their oil exceptionally potent. As Corvo Attano, you're thrust into this unique world, navigating its challenges and mysteries.
Dishonored Timeline in Chronological Order
Here's how each *Dishonored* game and DLC fits into the timeline, with brief summaries and mild spoilers:
1837 – Dishonored: In Dunwall, Empress Jessamine Kaldwin is assassinated, and her bodyguard, Corvo Attano, is framed. You guide Corvo as he escapes, seeks to rescue Emily, clear his name, and uncover the true culprits amidst a rat-borne plague.
1837 – Dishonored DLC The Knife of Dunwall: You play as Daud, the assassin behind Jessamine's murder. Summoned by The Outsider, Daud embarks on a mission to find The Brigmore Witches, including Delilah Copperspoon, a former friend of the Empress.
1837 – Dishonored DLC The Witches of Brigmore: Daud's journey continues, thwarting Delilah's plot to possess Emily supernaturally.
1852 – Dishonored 2: Emily, now empress, faces a new threat from Delilah Copperspoon, who claims to be Jessamine's sister and rightful heir. You choose to play as either Corvo or Emily, who is turned to stone, and journey to Karnaca to stop Delilah's scheme. Notably, supernatural powers are optional in this installment.
1852 – Dishonored: Death of the Outsider: You take on the role of Billie Lurk, Daud's former apprentice, as she rescues him from the Eyeless cult and investigates their operations.
Related: How to Play the Dragon Age Games in Order
Do You Need to Play Dishonored Before Dishonored 2?
While not mandatory, playing *Dishonored* first enhances your understanding of The Outsider's role and influence in the series.
Do You Need to Play Dishonored’s DLC Before Dishonored 2?
The DLC is less crucial for *Dishonored 2*, but highly recommended before *Death of the Outsider* for deeper insight into Billie Lurk and her connection with Daud. The Definitive Edition of *Dishonored* includes the DLC, making it a comprehensive package.
Is It Easier to Play the Dishonored Games in Any Particular Order?
Starting with *Dishonored* is advisable as it introduces the mechanics and the limitations of The Outsider's powers, making the subsequent games easier to grasp.
Who Are the Main Characters in the Dishonored Series?
Here are the key figures in *Dishonored*, with potential spoilers:
Corvo Attano: The protagonist of the first game, he serves as Empress Jessamine Kaldwin's Royal Protector and secret lover, fathering Emily Kaldwin.
Emily Kaldwin: Daughter of Corvo and Jessamine, she evolves from a child in the first game to a skilled fighter and diplomat in the sequel.
The Outsider: A mysterious entity residing in The Void, he grants supernatural powers but his intentions are enigmatic.
Daud: An assassin empowered by The Outsider, he regrets assassinating Jessamine and leads a group of assassins.
Billie Lurk / Meagan Foster: Daud's apprentice and later the protagonist of *Death of the Outsider*, she shares a complex relationship with him.
And that's how to play the *Dishonored* games in order, ensuring you experience the full depth 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.
