The *Dishonored* series is renowned for its immersive storytelling and unique gameplay, but with titles like *Dishonored: Death of the Outsider* and *The Brigmore Witches*, it's easy to get lost in the sequence. To help you navigate this captivating universe, we've laid out the *Dishonored* games in their proper order.
Dishonored Games in Release Order
The *Dishonored* series follows a straightforward timeline, with no prequels to confuse the order. Playing the games in their release order will also align with the chronological sequence of events. Here's how to experience the *Dishonored* series in 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
To fully appreciate the *Dishonored* series, it's essential to understand its setting. The games are set in a steampunk-inspired world, governed by emperors and empresses, where nations maintain a fragile peace. Magic exists but is rare, linked to The Void—a mysterious dimension inhabited by The Outsider, who grants supernatural abilities to select individuals for reasons unknown.
The technology in this world is powered by whale oil, thanks to the genius inventor Anton Sokolov. Whales, considered supernatural beings, provide a potent energy source, making whaling a crucial industry. As Corvo Attano, you navigate this intricate world.
Dishonored Timeline in Chronological Order
Here's a detailed look at where each *Dishonored* game and DLC fits into the timeline, along with a brief summary of each, courtesy of the *Dishonored* Wiki. Be aware, there are mild spoilers ahead.
1837 – Dishonored: In Dunwall, Empress Jessamine Kaldwin is assassinated, and her bodyguard, Corvo Attano, is framed and imprisoned. With The Outsider's help, Corvo escapes to rescue Jessamine's daughter, Emily, clear his name, and seek justice. The city is also battling a rat-borne plague.
1837 – Dishonored DLC The Knife of Dunwall: You play as Daud, the assassin responsible for the empress's death. Summoned by The Outsider, Daud embarks on a quest to find The Brigmore Witches, led by Delilah Copperspoon, a former friend of Jessamine.
1837 – Dishonored DLC The Brigmore Witches: Daud's journey continues as he uncovers Delilah's plot to possess Emily supernaturally, which he must thwart.
1852 – Dishonored 2: Emily, now an adult and empress, faces a new threat as Delilah Copperspoon claims to be Jessamine's sister and the rightful heir. You can play as either Corvo or Emily, with the other character turned to stone. The story takes you to Karnaca to stop Delilah's coup.
1852 – Dishonored: Death of the Outsider: You take on the role of Billie Lurk, a former follower of Daud. She rescues Daud from the Eyeless cult and investigates their activities.
Do You Need to Play Dishonored Before Dishonored 2?
While not mandatory, playing *Dishonored* first enhances your understanding of The Outsider and his impact on the world, which is a recurring theme throughout the series.
Do You Need to Play Dishonored’s DLC Before Dishonored 2?
The DLC for *Dishonored* isn't crucial for *Dishonored 2*, but it's highly recommended if you plan to play *Death of the Outsider*. It provides deeper insight into Billie Lurk and her relationship with Daud. The Definitive Edition of *Dishonored*, available on PlayStation 4, Xbox One, and PC, includes the DLC, which is well worth your time for both gameplay and story.
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 limitations of The Outsider's powers. Playing the games in release order provides a smoother learning curve and a more cohesive narrative experience.
Who Are the Main Characters in the Dishonored Series?
Here are the key characters in the *Dishonored* series, with potential spoilers:
Corvo Attano: The protagonist of Dishonored, he serves as Empress Jessamine Kaldwin's Royal Protector and Spymaster, and is secretly her lover and Emily's father.
Emily Kaldwin: Daughter of Corvo and Jessamine, she grows from a child in the first game to a skilled fighter and diplomat in Dishonored 2.
The Outsider: A mysterious figure residing in The Void, he bestows supernatural powers on chosen individuals, with motives that remain unclear.
Daud: An assassin empowered by The Outsider, he kills Jessamine but later regrets his actions, becoming a central figure in the DLCs.
Billie Lurk / Meagan Foster: Daud's apprentice and later the protagonist of Dishonored: Death of the Outsider, she has a complex relationship with her mentor.
And that's how to play the *Dishonored* games in order, ensuring you experience the full depth and richness of this remarkable 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.*
