"Guide: Playing Dishonored Games Sequentially"

Navigating the *Dishonored* series can feel like a maze with titles like *Dishonored: Death of the Outsider* and *The Brigmore Witches*. To help you find your way, we've organized the *Dishonored* games in the order they were released—and conveniently, the order they occur in the game's universe.

Dishonored Games in Release Order

The *Dishonored* series follows a straightforward timeline. Unlike some franchises that play with prequels and flashbacks, *Dishonored* keeps it simple: the release order is the chronological order. Here’s how to dive into the series:

• 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

Before diving deeper, let’s explore the fascinating world of *Dishonored*. Set in a steampunk universe, it's a place where emperors and empresses reign, and a delicate peace hangs between nations. Magic here is tied to The Void, a mysterious dimension home to The Outsider, who can grant supernatural powers to select individuals for reasons known only to him.

The world’s technology runs on whale oil, thanks to the genius inventor Anton Sokolov. These whales are not just ordinary sea creatures but supernatural beings, making their oil a potent energy source. As Corvo Attano, you'll navigate this intriguing landscape.

Dishonored Timeline in Chronological Order

Let's delve into the timeline of the *Dishonored* series, with a nod to the *Dishonored* Wiki for some insights. Be prepared for mild spoilers as we outline the story arcs.

1837 – Dishonored: In Dunwall, Empress Jessamine Kaldwin is assassinated, and her bodyguard, Corvo Attano, is wrongfully accused and imprisoned. You play as Corvo, escaping with The Outsider’s aid to rescue Jessamine’s daughter Emily, clear his name, and pursue justice. The city is also grappling with a rat-borne plague.

1837 – Dishonored DLC The Knife of Dunwall: You step into the shoes of Daud, the assassin behind Jessamine’s murder. Summoned by The Outsider, Daud searches for The Brigmore Witches, including Delilah Copperspoon, a former friend of the empress.

1837 – Dishonored DLC The Brigmore Witches: Daud's journey continues as he uncovers Delilah’s plot to possess Emily supernaturally, which he must prevent.

1852 – Dishonored 2: Now an adult, Emily is empress, with Corvo as her protector. A new threat emerges with Delilah Copperspoon, claiming to be Jessamine’s sister and rightful heir. You can play as either Corvo or Emily, who must flee to Karnaca to thwart Delilah's scheme. Notably, you can choose not to use supernatural powers in this installment.

1852 – Dishonored: Death of the Outsider: As Billie Lurk, a former follower of Daud, you rescue him from the Eyeless cult and investigate their activities.

Do You Need to Play Dishonored Before Dishonored 2?

While not mandatory, playing *Dishonored* first enriches your understanding of the series, particularly the pivotal role of The Outsider and his influence on the game’s world.

Do You Need to Play Dishonored’s DLC Before Dishonored 2?

The DLC 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 connection with Daud. The Definitive Edition of *Dishonored*, available on PlayStation 4, Xbox One, and PC, includes the DLC, and it’s well worth exploring for both story and gameplay.

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 supernatural powers granted by The Outsider. Playing in release order ensures a smooth progression through the series.

Who Are the Main Characters in the Dishonored Series?

Here are the key figures in the *Dishonored* series (spoilers ahead):

Corvo Attano: The protagonist of the first game, he’s the Royal Protector and Spymaster to Empress Jessamine Kaldwin, as well as her secret lover and father to Emily.

Emily Kaldwin: Daughter of Corvo and Jessamine, she grows from a child in the first game to a skilled fighter and diplomat in the sequel.

The Outsider: Residing in The Void, he grants supernatural abilities to chosen individuals. His true intentions remain enigmatic.

Daud: An assassin with powers from The Outsider, he assassinates Jessamine but later seeks redemption.

Billie Lurk / Meagan Foster: Daud’s apprentice and eventual protagonist of *Death of the Outsider*, she shares a complex relationship with her mentor.

And there you have it—the complete guide on how to play the *Dishonored* games in order.

*The above article was updated on 1/21/25 by the original author to include additional information about the order of the Dishonored games.*