How To Play the Dishonored Games in Order

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 mirrors the chronological order of events.

Playing the Games:

1. Dishonored (2012): The initial adventure establishes the core mechanics and introduces the world.
2. The Knife of Dunwall (2013): This DLC shifts perspective to Daud, the assassin responsible for the Empress's death.
3. The Brigmore Witches (2013): Daud's story continues in this DLC, revealing a larger conspiracy.
4. Dishonored 2 (2016): Fifteen years later, Emily Kaldwin faces a new threat.
5. Dishonored: Death of the Outsider (2017): Billie Lurk takes center stage in this standalone adventure.

The World of Dishonored:

Dishonored is set in a steampunk world ruled by emperors and empresses. Magic, tied to The Void and bestowed by The Outsider, plays a significant role. Whale oil fuels much of the technology.

Chronological Summary (with spoilers):

• 1837 – Dishonored: Empress Jessamine's assassination frames Corvo, leading to his escape and quest for justice.
• 1837 – The Knife of Dunwall: Daud's perspective on the Empress's murder and his subsequent actions.
• 1837 – The Brigmore Witches: Daud confronts Delilah Copperspoon's plot.
• 1852 – Dishonored 2: Emily, now Empress, battles Delilah's claim to the throne.
• 1852 – Dishonored: Death of the Outsider: Billie Lurk's pursuit of Daud and the Eyeless.

Play Order Recommendations:

While Dishonored 2 is playable without prior experience, playing the first game enhances understanding of The Outsider's influence. The DLCs are crucial for understanding Death of the Outsider. The Dishonored Definitive Edition bundles the DLC, making it a convenient option.

Key Characters:

• Corvo Attano: Protagonist of Dishonored, Jessamine's protector and Emily's father.
• Emily Kaldwin: Empress in Dishonored 2, Corvo's daughter.
• The Outsider: A mysterious entity granting supernatural abilities.
• Daud: Assassin responsible for Jessamine's death, featured in the DLC and Death of the Outsider.
• Billie Lurk: Daud's apprentice, protagonist of Death of the Outsider.

The optimal play order is the release order, providing a smoother narrative experience and better understanding of character development. This updated guide (1/21/25) provides a comprehensive overview of the Dishonored series.