"Dishonored Games: Optimal Play Order Revealed"

The *Dishonored* series is renowned for its immersive storytelling and intricate gameplay, but titles like *Dishonored: Death of the Outsider* and *The Brigmore Witches* can make the timeline a bit confusing. To help you navigate through the series, we’ve arranged the *Dishonored* games in their proper order.

Dishonored Games in Release Order

The *Dishonored* series follows a straightforward timeline, with no prequels to complicate things. The release order mirrors the chronological order of the games, making it easy to follow the story as it unfolds. Here's how to play the *Dishonored* games 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 unique setting. The games are set in a steampunk-inspired world governed by emperors and empresses, where an uneasy peace reigns. Magic, though rare, is connected to The Void—a mysterious parallel dimension inhabited by The Outsider, who grants supernatural abilities to select individuals for reasons unknown.

The world's technology is powered by whale oil, a resource derived from supernatural whales and harnessed by the inventive genius, Anton Sokolov. This reliance on whale oil underscores the importance of whaling in this universe. As Corvo Attano, you are introduced to this fascinating world.

Dishonored Timeline in Chronological Order

Here's a detailed look at where each *Dishonored* game and its DLC fits into the timeline, with a summary of key events. Be aware that there may be mild spoilers ahead.

1837 – Dishonored: The story begins in Dunwall, where Empress Jessamine Kaldwin is assassinated, and her bodyguard, Corvo Attano, is framed for the crime. With assistance from The Outsider, Corvo escapes and sets out to rescue Jessamine's daughter, Emily, clear his name, and bring the true culprits to justice amidst a rat-borne plague.

1837 – Dishonored DLC The Knife of Dunwall: You take on the role of Daud, the assassin responsible for the empress's murder. Summoned by The Outsider, Daud embarks on a quest to find The Brigmore Witches, led by Delilah Copperspoon, a former friend of Empress Jessamine.

1837 – Dishonored DLC The Brigmore Witches: Daud's journey continues as he discovers Delilah's plan to possess Emily supernaturally. His mission is to thwart this sinister plot.

1852 – Dishonored 2: Emily, now an adult, is the empress, with Corvo still serving as her protector. A new threat emerges in the form of Delilah Copperspoon, who claims to be the rightful heir to the throne. You can play as either Corvo or Emily, with the other character being turned to stone. Your mission leads you to Karnaca to stop Delilah's coup.

1852 – Dishonored: Death of the Outsider: You play as Billie Lurk, a former follower of Daud. After rescuing him from the Eyeless cult, Billie delves into their mysterious activities.

Do You Need to Play Dishonored Before Dishonored 2?

While not strictly necessary, playing the first *Dishonored* game is highly beneficial. It introduces The Outsider, a pivotal character whose influence permeates the series, and helps you understand the world and its mechanics.

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

The DLC for *Dishonored* isn't essential for *Dishonored 2*, but it's highly recommended if you plan to play *Death of the Outsider*. It provides crucial backstory on 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 worth your time for both its gameplay and narrative.

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

Starting with the original *Dishonored* game is advisable as it introduces you to the series' mechanics and the supernatural abilities granted by The Outsider. Playing the games in release order provides the most cohesive 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 the first game, he is the Royal Protector and secret lover of Empress Jessamine Kaldwin, as well as the father of Emily Kaldwin.

Emily Kaldwin: Daughter of Corvo and Jessamine, she grows from a child in the first game to a formidable empress and fighter in *Dishonored 2*.

The Outsider: A mysterious entity residing in The Void, he bestows supernatural powers on selected individuals, influencing the series' events.

Daud: An assassin empowered by The Outsider, he kills Jessamine Kaldwin but later regrets his actions and becomes a central figure in the DLCs.

Billie Lurk / Meagan Foster: Daud's apprentice and second-in-command, she emerges as the protagonist of *Dishonored: Death of the Outsider*, driven by her connection to Daud.

Understanding the order and context of the *Dishonored* games enhances your experience, allowing you to fully appreciate the depth of its narrative and the evolution of its characters.

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