The *Dishonored* series is renowned for its intricate storytelling and unique gameplay, but titles like *Dishonored: Death of the Outsider* and *The Brigmore Witches* can make the order of play a bit confusing. To help fans navigate through the series, here's a clear guide on how to experience the *Dishonored* games in order.

Dishonored Games in Release Order

The *Dishonored* series follows a straightforward timeline without any prequels, making the release order the same as the chronological order. Here's how you can 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 setting. The games are set in a steampunk-style world, ruled by emperors and empresses, where nations maintain an uneasy peace. Magic, tied to The Void—a mysterious parallel dimension—is present but not as widespread as in other fantasy settings. The current inhabitant of The Void, The Outsider, can grant supernatural abilities to individuals, though his reasons for doing so remain enigmatic.

The technology in this world relies heavily on whale oil, a potent substance derived from supernatural whales, and is largely the creation of the genius inventor, Anton Sokolov. As you step into this world as Corvo Attano, you're immersed in its unique blend of magic and industrial innovation.

Dishonored Timeline in Chronological Order

Here's a detailed look at where each *Dishonored* game and DLC fits within the series' timeline, along with a brief summary of each:

• 1837 – Dishonored: The story begins in Dunwall with the assassination of Empress Jessamine Kaldwin. Corvo Attano, her bodyguard, is wrongfully accused and imprisoned. With help from The Outsider, Corvo escapes to rescue Jessamine’s daughter, Emily, clear his name, and seek justice for the real culprits. The city is also battling a rat-borne plague.
• 1837 – Dishonored DLC The Knife of Dunwall: You play as Daud, the assassin behind Jessamine's death. Summoned by The Outsider, Daud embarks on a quest to find The Brigmore Witches, led by Delilah Copperspoon, a former friend of the late empress.
• 1837 – Dishonored DLC The Witches of Brigmore: Daud's journey continues as he uncovers Delilah's plan to possess Emily Kaldwin, which he must thwart.
• 1852 – Dishonored 2: Now an adult, Emily Kaldwin is the empress, with Corvo as her protector. A serial killer is loose, and some suspect Corvo. Delilah Copperspoon returns, claiming 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 plot.
• 1852 – Dishonored: Death of the Outsider: As Billie Lurk, a former follower of Daud, you rescue him from the Eyeless cult and investigate their activities.

Do You Need to Play Dishonored Before Dishonored 2?

While not mandatory, playing *Dishonored* first enhances your understanding of the series, especially regarding The Outsider and his influence on the world.

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

The DLC is less crucial for *Dishonored 2* but highly recommended before *Death of the Outsider* to better understand Billie Lurk's backstory and 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 enhancements.

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

Starting with *Dishonored* is advisable as it introduces you to the mechanics and the powers bestowed by The Outsider, making the transition to subsequent games smoother.

Who Are the Main Characters in the Dishonored Series?

Here are the central figures in the *Dishonored* series:

• Corvo Attano: The protagonist of the first game, he serves as Empress Jessamine Kaldwin's Royal Protector and is secretly her lover and father to Emily Kaldwin.
• Emily Kaldwin: Daughter of Corvo and Jessamine, she evolves from a child into a skilled fighter and diplomat by *Dishonored 2*.
• The Outsider: A mysterious entity residing in The Void, he grants supernatural abilities but his motives are unclear.
• Daud: An assassin with powers from The Outsider, he kills Jessamine Kaldwin and later seeks redemption.
• Billie Lurk / Meagan Foster: Daud's apprentice and later the protagonist of *Dishonored: Death of the Outsider*, she has a deep bond with him.

With this guide, you're now equipped to navigate the *Dishonored* series in order, fully immersing yourself in its captivating world and storyline.

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