Is playing as Corvo or Emily canon?

Is Playing as Corvo or Emily Canon?

Dishonored is an action-adventure stealth video game that has left a lasting impact on gamers with its unique blend of supernatural powers, intricate plotting, and immersive world. Within the game’s storyline, players have the opportunity to play as two unique characters: Corvo Attano and Emily Kaldwin. But the question arises: which one of them is canon?

In Dishonored’s narrative, the Lord Regent’s son Corvo Attano, along with the Empress, is accused of her assassination. This sets in motion a chain of events as Corvo seeks revenge, uncovering a grand conspiracy that threatens the throne.

On the other hand, Dishonored 2 marks the return of Corvo in a new timeline where Corvo has been reincarnated, and it takes place 15 years after the events of the original game. In Dishonored 2, players can once again play as Corvo Attano, but now Emily Kaldwin takes the limelight. So, does Dishonored’s storyline prioritize playing as Corvo or Emily canon?

Corvo vs. Emily: What are the differences?

Below is a table that compares the key differences between Dishonored 1 and Dishonored 2:

Corvo is Canon, but Only partially…

To summarize: there are three main endings in Dishonored 1: the Good, Average, and Bad endings. Based on the game’s programming, it is unlikely to achieve a "canon" ending, given that the story is divided between the two main plot twists. Corvo being Corvo is canon… most of the time, because he is the narrator for the majority of the storyline. However, we cannot disregard the twist involving Emily’s usurption.

When Harvey Smith, Dishonored’s Creative Director, was asked about canon: "In the first game, Corvo was silent. Raphael Colantonio and I always knew that if Corvo ever spoke, we needed exactly the right actor." Therefore, Corvo Attano is the prime narrative focus of Dishonored 1, but this does not explicitly exclude Emily Kaldwin from canon in Dishonored 2. When playing as Emily Kaldwin, the focus changes, but the lore continues to develop.

When Corvo Speaks: A Compromise between Lore and Canon

Daud, Corvo’s twin brother, is said to have killed the empress. Corvo mentions he has been living in fear (Emphasis mine), giving a glimpse into living in fear after sparing Daud’s life (in the "Good Ending"). Anyways, he killed Granny Rags, and saved Slackjaw – bringing his kill count to 49 people!

The Power Called Bend Time: A returning power granted by the Outsider

Bend Time – a returning power in the series – allows slowing and stopping time. But before this power, time did not bend. Think twice before stopping time or replaying your actions (read: cheating).

From there, Dishonored 2’s story diverges significantly in terms of narrative tone. Emily’s storyline shifts more towards action and fighting rather than stealth and evasion (Corvo’s methods of choice). Emily does kill Granny Rags – with the intent to punish or kill Corvo; ultimately, the fate is unsure.

Conclusion

Despite the mixed narrative choices for Dishonored 2, I’ll conclude that both characters are canon but on different levels. When the game first released in Dishonored, Corvo was considered primary canon due to historical events mentioned through the storyline. Upon his return in Dishonored 2 with the power Bend Time, his actions reiterating his character role cemented his canon placement – albeit in a reincarnation. Emily’s rise to power created more questions than answers within Dishonored’s vast array of characters.

Finalizing the conclusion: corvo’s story plays alongside emily’s struggle and the canon narrative as if both stories are concurrent branches within the Dishonored universe.

Endings: Which one was Best?

Which game were you most invested in playing? Was it Dishonored or Dishonored 2? Are your favorite moments from a mix of both games’ soundtracks, or more character interactions? Share with others your experience and impressions regarding the series!

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