The Dishonored series, with titles like Dishonored: 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 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 II (2016)
• Dishonored: Death of the Outsider (2017)

The World of Dishonored:

The Dishonored universe blends steampunk aesthetics with magic. Emperors and empresses rule, maintaining uneasy peace. Magic, linked to The Void (a parallel dimension inhabited by The Outsider), grants supernatural abilities. Whale oil, a byproduct of supernatural whales, fuels much of the technology, a creation of the genius Anton Sokolov. You play as Corvo Attano within this unique setting.

Chronological Gameplay Order and Summaries:

(Mild spoilers ahead)

• 1837 – Dishonored: Empress Jessamine Kaldwin's assassination frames Corvo Attano, her bodyguard. He escapes, aided by The Outsider, to rescue Emily (Jessamine's daughter), clear his name, and expose the true assassins amidst a city-wide plague.

• 1837 – The Knife of Dunwall: Playing as Daud (the empress's assassin), summoned by The Outsider, you embark on a quest involving the Brigmore Witches, including Delilah Copperspoon.

• 1837 – The Brigmore Witches: Daud's quest continues, confronting Delilah's attempt to possess Emily.

• 1852 – Dishonored II: Emily, now empress, faces a new threat: Delilah Copperspoon, claiming to be the rightful heir. You play as either Corvo or Emily, with the other petrified. The game unfolds in Karnaca.

• 1852 – Dishonored: Death of the Outsider: Billie Lurk, Daud's former apprentice, rescues him from a cult and investigates their activities.

Recommended Playing Order:

While not strictly mandatory, playing Dishonored first enhances the experience of Dishonored II. Understanding The Outsider's role and influence is beneficial. Playing the DLC before Dishonored II is less critical, but it significantly enriches Death of the Outsider, providing context for Billie Lurk and her relationship with Daud. The Dishonored Definitive Edition offers all DLC.

Ease of Gameplay:

Starting with Dishonored is recommended, as it introduces the core mechanics and the Outsider's powers. However, each game offers a smooth learning curve.

Main Characters:

(Significant spoilers ahead)

• Corvo Attano: Empress 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 powers.
• Daud: An assassin who kills Jessamine, later regretting his actions.
• Billie Lurk: Daud's apprentice, becoming the protagonist of Death of the Outsider.

This comprehensive guide ensures a more enjoyable and coherent Dishonored experience. The article was last updated January 21, 2025.