The *Dishonored* franchise delivers an exceptional gaming experience, though titles like *Dishonored: Death of the Outsider* and *The Brigmore Witches* can create some confusion. To help players navigate this universe, we've organized the series in the proper sequence.
Dishonored Games in Release Order
Unlike some franchises with complex timelines, *Dishonored* follows a straightforward chronological progression. None of the entries serve as prequels, making the release order identical to the in-universe timeline. Here's the complete series in 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 into the series, understanding its unique setting enhances the experience. *Dishonored* presents a Steampunk-inspired world ruled by hereditary monarchs where nations maintain fragile peace agreements. Magic exists but remains rare, originating from The Void - a parallel dimension inhabited by a mysterious entity called The Outsider.
This world relies heavily on whale oil for technological advancement, which holds supernatural properties due to the mystical nature of whales. The brilliant inventor Anton Sokolov drives much of the technological progress in this universe.
Dishonored Timeline in Chronological Order
Here's the complete story progression with essential plot points (minor spoilers included):
1837 – Dishonored: Follows royal protector Corvo Attano after he's framed for empress Jessamine Kaldwin's assassination. With help from The Outsider, Corvo fights to rescue Emily (the heir to the throne) while Dunwall suffers from a rat-borne plague.
1837 – The Knife of Dunwall DLC: Players control assassin Daud (Jessamine's killer) as he investigates the Brigmore Witches faction.
1837 – The Brigmore Witches DLC: Concludes Daud's story as he thwarts witch Delilah Copperspoon's attempt to possess Emily.
1852 – Dishonored II: Fifteen years later, an adult Emily faces Delilah's challenge to her rule while a serial killer stalks Karnaca.
1852 – Death of the Outsider: Former assassin Billie Lurk investigates supernatural threats while helping her mentor Daud.
Essential Playing Order Questions
Playing Dishonored Before Dishonored 2? Not mandatory but recommended for understanding The Outsider's role and worldbuilding.
Necessity of DLC Before Dishonored 2? The DLC becomes particularly valuable for appreciating Billie Lurk's backstory before *Death of the Outsider*.
Optimal Play Order? Starting with the original *Dishonored* provides the most natural introduction to gameplay mechanics and lore.
Key Characters
The series features:
- Corvo Attano: Royal protector-turned-outlaw seeking redemption
- Emily Kaldwin: Child empress who matures into a capable leader
- The Outsider: Enigmatic deity who grants supernatural gifts
- Daud: Master assassin with a crisis of conscience
- Billie Lurk: Daud's protégé who becomes a protagonist
