Dishonored Series: How to Play in Chronological Order

The *Dishonored* series is renowned for its compelling narrative and immersive gameplay, but with titles like *Dishonored: Death of the Outsider* and *The Brigmore Witches*, the sequence can be a bit confusing. To help you navigate the saga, we’ve arranged the *Dishonored* games in order.

Dishonored Games in Release Order

Unlike some franchises where timelines can jump around, *Dishonored* keeps things straightforward. None of the games are prequels, so the release order is also the chronological order. 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

Before diving deeper, it's beneficial to understand the setting of the *Dishonored* universe. The games are set in a Steampunk-inspired world ruled by emperors and empresses, where peace among nations is often uneasy. Magic is present but not as widespread as in fantasy realms like *Dungeons and Dragons*. It originates from The Void, a mysterious dimension inhabited by The Outsider, who grants supernatural abilities to select individuals for reasons unknown.

The technology in this world is powered by whale oil, a resource central to the economy and innovations of genius inventor Anton Sokolov. Due to the supernatural nature of these whales, their oil is exceptionally potent, powering everything from lights to complex machinery. As Corvo Attano, you navigate this intricate world filled with political intrigue and mystical elements.

Dishonored Timeline in Chronological Order

Let’s explore where each *Dishonored* game and DLC fits within the series timeline and what unfolds in each. Here’s a breakdown, with minor spoilers:

1837 – Dishonored: The game begins in Dunwall with the assassination of Empress Jessamine Kaldwin. Her bodyguard, Corvo Attano, is framed for the crime and imprisoned. With assistance from The Outsider, Corvo escapes to rescue Jessamine’s daughter, Emily, clear his name, and seek justice for the real perpetrators. The city is also battling a rat-borne plague.

1837 – Dishonored DLC The Knife of Dunwall: You play as Daud, the assassin responsible for the empress's death. Summoned by The Outsider, Daud embarks on a mission to track down The Brigmore Witches, led by Delilah Copperspoon, a former friend of Jessamine.

1837 – Dishonored DLC The Brigmore Witches: Daud’s journey continues as he uncovers Delilah’s plan to possess Emily supernaturally. He must thwart this sinister plot.

1852 – Dishonored 2: Now an adult, Emily is the empress, with Corvo as her protector. A new threat emerges in the form of Delilah Copperspoon, who claims to be Jessamine’s sister and the rightful heir. You can play as either Corvo or Emily, who must flee to Karnaca to stop Delilah’s coup. Unlike the original, supernatural powers are optional.

1852 – Dishonored: Death of the Outsider: You take on the role of Billie Lurk, a former follower of Daud. After rescuing him from the Eyeless cult, Billie investigates their activities.

Do You Need to Play Dishonored Before Dishonored 2?

While not mandatory, playing *Dishonored* first enhances your understanding of the series. The recurring theme of The Outsider and his influence on the world is better appreciated with this background.

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

The DLC is less crucial for *Dishonored 2*, but it’s highly recommended if you plan to play *Death of the Outsider*. It provides context on Billie Lurk and her connection to Daud. The Definitive Edition of *Dishonored*, available on PlayStation 4, Xbox One, and PC, includes the DLC, which is well worth exploring for its story and gameplay.

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

Each *Dishonored* game introduces its mechanics, but starting with *Dishonored* is beneficial. It familiarizes you with The Outsider’s powers and their limitations, making the subsequent games slightly easier to grasp when played in release order.

Who Are the Main Characters in the Dishonored Series?

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

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

Emily Kaldwin: Daughter of Corvo and Jessamine, she evolves from a child interested in her father's skills to a formidable fighter and diplomat by the second game.

The Outsider: A mysterious entity residing in The Void, he bestows supernatural abilities on chosen individuals, though his intentions remain enigmatic.

Daud: An assassin empowered by The Outsider, he leads a group of killers and is responsible for Jessamine’s death, later expressing remorse.

Billie Lurk / Meagan Foster: Initially Daud’s apprentice and second-in-command, she has a complex relationship with him and becomes the protagonist in *Dishonored: Death of the Outsider*.

And that’s 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.