"Mastering Dishonored: Optimal Game Order Guide"

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 narrative sequence. To help fans navigate this captivating universe, we've organized the *Dishonored* games in the order they were released.

Dishonored Games in Release Order

The *Dishonored* series follows a straightforward timeline, with no prequels to complicate the sequence. Playing the games in their release order will also align with the chronological story. Here's how you can experience the *Dishonored* saga 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

Before diving deeper into the series, it's essential to grasp the setting of *Dishonored*. The games are set in a steampunk-inspired world ruled by emperors and empresses, where nations maintain an uneasy peace. Magic, though not as widespread as in traditional fantasy settings, plays a significant role. It's linked to The Void, a mysterious dimension, and The Outsider, its enigmatic resident, who grants supernatural abilities to select individuals.

The technology in this world is powered by whale oil, a potent resource due to the supernatural nature of whales. This oil fuels inventions created by the brilliant Anton Sokolov, making whaling a crucial industry. As players, we step into this world as Corvo Attano, navigating its complex dynamics.

Dishonored Timeline in Chronological Order

Understanding where each game and DLC fits within the *Dishonored* timeline, along with a brief overview of each, can enhance your gaming experience. Below is a summary, with mild spoilers, sourced from the *Dishonored* Wiki:

1837 – Dishonored: In Dunwall, Empress Jessamine Kaldwin is assassinated, and her bodyguard, Corvo Attano, is wrongfully accused and imprisoned. With help from The Outsider, Corvo escapes to rescue Jessamine's daughter, Emily, clear his name, and seek justice amid a city plagued by a rat-borne disease.

1837 – Dishonored DLC The Knife of Dunwall: Players take on the role of Daud, the assassin responsible for Jessamine's death. Summoned by The Outsider, Daud's journey leads him to pursue The Brigmore Witches and their leader, Delilah Copperspoon, a former friend of the empress.

1837 – Dishonored DLC The Brigmore Witches: Daud's quest continues as he uncovers Delilah's plan to possess Emily supernaturally. It's up to Daud to thwart her sinister intentions.

1852 – Dishonored 2: Now grown, Emily is empress, with Corvo as her protector. A new threat emerges as Delilah Copperspoon, claiming to be Jessamine's sister and the rightful heir, attempts to seize the throne. Players can choose to play as either Corvo or Emily, who must flee to Karnaca to combat Delilah's plot.

1852 – Dishonored: Death of the Outsider: Players control Billie Lurk, once a follower of Daud. She rescues him from the Eyeless cult and delves into their mysterious activities.

**Related: How to Play the Dragon Age Games in Order**

Do You Need to Play Dishonored Before Dishonored 2?

While not mandatory, playing the original *Dishonored* can significantly enhance your understanding of the series' themes, especially The Outsider's role and influence.

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

The DLC for *Dishonored* isn't crucial for enjoying *Dishonored 2*, but it's highly recommended if you plan to play *Death of the Outsider*. It provides valuable context about Billie Lurk and her connection to Daud. The Definitive Edition of *Dishonored*, available on PlayStation 4, Xbox One, and PC, includes these DLCs, offering a comprehensive experience. Unlike some lackluster DLCs, *Dishonored*'s expansions are well-regarded for their engaging gameplay and storytelling.

Is It Easier to Play the Dishonored Games in Any Particular Order?

Starting with the original *Dishonored* is advisable, as it introduces the mechanics and the impact of The Outsider's powers, making it easier to appreciate the subsequent games in the series.

Who Are the Main Characters in the Dishonored Series?

Below are the key figures in the *Dishonored* series, with potential spoilers ahead:

Corvo Attano: The protagonist of the first game, he serves as Empress Jessamine Kaldwin's protector and is the father of her daughter, Emily Kaldwin.

Emily Kaldwin: The daughter of Corvo and Jessamine, she grows from a child in the first game to a formidable leader in the sequel.

The Outsider: A mysterious entity residing in The Void, he bestows supernatural powers on chosen individuals, with motives that remain enigmatic.

Daud: An assassin empowered by The Outsider, he regrets his role in Jessamine's assassination and seeks redemption.

Billie Lurk / Meagan Foster: Initially Daud's apprentice, she later becomes the protagonist in Dishonored: Death of the Outsider, driven by her connection to Daud.

This guide should help you navigate the *Dishonored* series in order, ensuring a rich and coherent gaming experience.

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