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*, it's easy to get confused. To help you navigate this steampunk universe, we've outlined the *Dishonored* games in their release order, which also serves as the chronological order.
Dishonored Games in Release Order
The *Dishonored* series unfolds linearly without any prequels, making it straightforward to follow the timeline by playing the games in their release order. Here’s the sequence:
- *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
Understanding the setting of *Dishonored* enhances your gameplay experience. The series is set in a steampunk world governed by emperors and empresses, where uneasy peace prevails. Magic, though rare, exists through the influence of The Void, a parallel dimension home to The Outsider, who grants supernatural abilities to select individuals for reasons unknown.
Technology in this world is powered by whale oil, a potent energy source derived from supernatural whales. The genius inventor Anton Sokolov is behind many of these innovations. As Corvo Attano, you'll immerse yourself in this unique universe.
Dishonored Timeline in Chronological Order
Here’s a detailed breakdown of the *Dishonored* timeline, including each game and DLC, with minor spoilers:
1837 – Dishonored: The narrative kicks off in Dunwall with the assassination of Empress Jessamine Kaldwin. Framed for her murder, her bodyguard Corvo Attano escapes prison with The Outsider's help to rescue her daughter, Emily, and seek justice amidst a rat-borne plague.
1837 – Dishonored DLC The Knife of Dunwall: You take on the role of Daud, the assassin behind the empress's death. Guided by The Outsider, Daud sets out to confront The Brigmore Witches, led by Delilah Copperspoon, a former friend of Jessamine.
1837 – Dishonored DLC The Witches of Brigmore: Continuing Daud's story, he uncovers Delilah's plot to possess Emily and works to thwart her plans.
1852 – Dishonored 2: Now grown, Emily Kaldwin is the empress with Corvo as her protector. Amidst a new threat from Delilah Copperspoon, who claims to be the true heir, you can play as either Corvo or Emily, the other being petrified. The game offers a choice to use supernatural powers or not, adding depth to gameplay.
1852 – Dishonored: Death of the Outsider: As Billie Lurk, a former follower of Daud, you rescue him from the Eyeless cult and delve into their sinister activities.
Do You Need to Play Dishonored Before Dishonored 2?
While not mandatory, playing *Dishonored* first will enrich your understanding of The Outsider and his impact on the game's world.
Do You Need to Play Dishonored’s DLC Before Dishonored 2?
The DLC isn't crucial for *Dishonored 2*, but it's highly recommended before playing *Death of the Outsider* to understand Billie Lurk's backstory 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 worth exploring.
Is It Easier to Play the Dishonored Games in Any Particular Order?
Starting with *Dishonored* is advisable as it introduces you to the mechanics and The Outsider's powers, making subsequent games easier to grasp when played in release order.
Who Are the Main Characters in the Dishonored Series?
Here are the central figures in the *Dishonored* series, with spoilers:
Corvo Attano: The protagonist of *Dishonored*, he's the Royal Protector and secret lover of Empress Jessamine Kaldwin, and father to Emily Kaldwin.
Emily Kaldwin: Daughter of Corvo and Jessamine, she grows from a child eager to learn from her father in the first game to a skilled fighter and diplomat in *Dishonored 2*.
The Outsider: A mysterious entity residing in The Void, he bestows supernatural abilities on chosen individuals, his intentions always enigmatic.
Daud: An assassin empowered by The Outsider, he kills Jessamine but later seeks redemption through his quests in the DLC.
Billie Lurk / Meagan Foster: Initially Daud's apprentice, she plays a pivotal role in *Death of the Outsider*, showcasing her deep bond with Daud.
And that’s your guide to playing the *Dishonored* games in order.
The above article was updated on 1/21/25 by the original author to include additional information about the order of the Dishonored games.
