How To Play the Dishonored Games in Order

The Dishonored series, with titles like 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 game franchises, Dishonored's release order mirrors its chronological timeline. There are no prequels.

Playing Order:

1. Dishonored (2012)
2. The Knife of Dunwall (Dishonored DLC) (2013)
3. The Brigmore Witches (Dishonored DLC) (2013)
4. Dishonored II (2016)
5. Dishonored: Death of the Outsider (2017)

World Setting:

Dishonored unfolds in a steampunk world ruled by emperors and empresses, where uneasy peace prevails. Magic, linked to The Void and The Outsider (a mysterious entity granting supernatural abilities), is present but not ubiquitous. Whale oil fuels many inventions, due to its potent properties derived from supernatural whales.

Chronological Breakdown & Summaries (with minor spoilers):

• 1837 – Dishonored: Empress Jessamine is assassinated, and her bodyguard, Corvo Attano, is framed. He escapes, aided by The Outsider, to rescue Emily, Jessamine's daughter. Dunwall is ravaged by a rat-borne plague.

• 1837 – The Knife of Dunwall: Daud, the empress's assassin, is tasked by The Outsider to hunt the Brigmore Witches, including Delilah Copperspoon.

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

• 1852 – Dishonored II: Emily, now empress, faces a new threat: Delilah, claiming to be Jessamine's sister and rightful heir. Players control either Corvo or Emily, with the other petrified. The action shifts to Karnaca.

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

Playing Order Recommendations:

While Dishonored II is playable without prior experience, playing the first game enhances understanding of The Outsider's influence. The DLCs are less crucial for Dishonored II, but highly recommended before Death of the Outsider to fully grasp Billie Lurk's backstory and relationship with Daud. The Dishonored Definitive Edition includes all DLC.

Ease of Play:

Starting with Dishonored provides a solid foundation for understanding the game mechanics and powers granted by The Outsider.

Main Characters (with major spoilers):

• Corvo Attano: Jessamine's protector, lover, and Emily's father.
• Emily Kaldwin: Jessamine and Corvo's daughter, a capable fighter and diplomat.
• The Outsider: A mysterious entity granting powers.
• Daud: Leader of assassins, responsible for Jessamine's death.
• Billie Lurk: Daud's apprentice, protagonist of Death of the Outsider.

(Article updated 1/21/25 to include additional information.)