The Dishonored series, with titles like Dishonored: Death of the Outsider and The Brigmore Witches, can be confusing. This guide clarifies the optimal play order.
Release Order vs. Chronological Order:
Unlike some franchises, the Dishonored timeline is straightforward. The release order perfectly mirrors the chronological order of events.
Game Order:
- Dishonored (2012)
- The Knife of Dunwall (Dishonored DLC) (2013)
- The Brigmore Witches (Dishonored DLC) (2013)
- Dishonored II (2016)
- Dishonored: Death of the Outsider (2017)
World Setting:
The Dishonored universe blends steampunk aesthetics with magic. Emperors and empresses rule, nations exist in uneasy alliances. Magic, connected to The Void and granted by The Outsider, is a key element. Whale oil, a potent energy source derived from supernatural whales, fuels many inventions.
Chronological Breakdown & Story Summaries (Minor Spoilers):
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1837 – Dishonored: Empress Jessamine Kaldwin's assassination frames Corvo Attano, her bodyguard. He escapes with The Outsider's help, aiming 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: Players control Daud, Jessamine's assassin, as he embarks on a quest directed by The Outsider, involving the Brigmore Witches, including Delilah Copperspoon.
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1837 – The Brigmore Witches: Daud's quest continues, confronting Delilah's attempt to seize control of Emily through supernatural means.
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1852 – Dishonored II: Emily, now Empress, faces a new threat: Delilah Copperspoon, claiming to be Jessamine's sister and rightful heir. Players control either Corvo or Emily as the other is petrified. The game unfolds in Karnaca.
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1852 – Dishonored: Death of the Outsider: Billie Lurk, Daud's former associate, rescues him from a cult and investigates their activities.
Playing Order Recommendations:
While Dishonored II is playable without prior experience, playing the first game enhances understanding of The Outsider's role and the world. Playing the DLC is recommended before Death of the Outsider to fully appreciate Billie Lurk's connection to Daud. The Dishonored Definitive Edition bundles the DLC.
Main Characters (Spoilers):
- Corvo Attano: Jessamine's protector, lover, and Emily's father.
- Emily Kaldwin: Corvo and Jessamine's daughter, becoming a capable leader.
- The Outsider: A mysterious entity granting supernatural powers.
- Daud: An assassin who kills Jessamine, later regretting his actions.
- Billie Lurk: Daud's apprentice, becoming the protagonist of Death of the Outsider.
(Updated 1/21/25)
