How To Play the Dishonored Games in Order

The Dishonored series, with titles like Dishonored: Death of the Outsider and The Brigmore Witches, can be confusing. This guide clarifies the optimal play order.

Release Order vs. Chronological Order:

Unlike some franchises, Dishonored's release order mirrors its chronological timeline. No prequels exist, simplifying the sequence.

Playing the Games:

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

World Setting:

Dishonored unfolds in a steampunk world ruled by emperors and empresses, where magic, linked to The Void and The Outsider, exists alongside advanced technology powered by whale oil. Anton Sokolov's inventions are central to this world.

Chronological Breakdown:

• 1837 – Dishonored: Empress Jessamine's assassination frames Corvo Attano, leading to his escape and quest for justice amidst a plague.
• 1837 – The Knife of Dunwall: Daud, Jessamine's assassin, is tasked by The Outsider to pursue The Brigmore Witches.
• 1837 – The Brigmore Witches: Daud's pursuit continues, focusing on Delilah Copperspoon's attempt to possess Emily.
• 1852 – Dishonored 2: Emily, now empress, faces Delilah Copperspoon's claim to the throne.
• 1852 – Dishonored: Death of the Outsider: Billie Lurk investigates the Eyeless cult and rescues Daud.

Play Order Recommendations:

While Dishonored 2 is playable independently, starting with Dishonored enhances understanding of The Outsider's influence. Playing the DLC before Death of the Outsider provides crucial context for Billie Lurk's character arc. The Dishonored Definitive Edition conveniently bundles the DLC.

Key Characters:

• Corvo Attano: Protagonist, Jessamine's protector and lover.
• Emily Kaldwin: Corvo and Jessamine's daughter, future empress.
• The Outsider: Mysterious entity granting supernatural powers.
• Daud: Assassin who kills Jessamine, later seeking redemption.
• Billie Lurk: Daud's apprentice, protagonist of Death of the Outsider.

This revised play order ensures a cohesive narrative experience. The article was updated on 1/21/25 to reflect this information.