Which Dishonored should I start with?

Which Dishonored Should You Start With?

In the world of stealth games, none capture our imaginations quite like the Dishonored series. With two main titles, a pair of spin-offs, and countless DLC chapters, it’s easy to get lost in the complexity of the universe. In this article, we’ll break down each game and help you determine which Dishonored series you should start with. So, grab your tongs, put on your thinking hat, and dive into the world of Victorian-era revenge.

Getting Started

Before we jump into the meat of things, it’s essential to understand that Dishonored is a game that prioritizes choice over force. These games reward players who excel at stealth, strategy, and exploration over those who rely on brute force or quick reflexes. Given this focus on choice, it’s crucial to develop a understanding of the player’s playstyle and narrative preferences before diving into any of the games.

The Order of Playability

For new players to the series, we’d recommend playing the games in release order for the most immersive experience.

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

Should I Start with Dishonored or Dishonored 2?

Despite the importance of playing games in release order, newcomers to the series often stumble upon a common question: which game should they play first? In terms of storytelling, Dishonored and Dishonored 2 are quite distinct from one another, with Dishonored laying the foundation for the second game. If you focus on narrative coherence, play Dishonored first. However, if you prefer a fresher experience with a non-linear design, Dishonored 2 offers an excellent chance to start your journey there.

Non-Lethal and Lethal Playthroughs

Now that you know which order to play the games, it’s time to learn about chaos choices in Dishonored. For those who seek a non-lethal playthrough, Dishonored is designed to foster stealth, strategy, and exploration, with the end goal of reaching the same conclusion. For those with a penchant for murder and mischief, the outcome is very different. Chaos choices significantly impact the tone and storyline of the series. By adopting various lethal (or non-lethal) playstyles, you alter the trajectory of the characters and narrative, leading to multiple story endings.

Stealth, Subterfuge, or Brute Force?

Your Choice Influences the Game

• Killing may solve certain immediate issues but reduces the likelihood of achieving High Chaos endings.
• Stealth and careful planning open up new story paths, unlock hidden powers, and provide a taste of victory without the sacrifice of stealth.
• Exploration and uncovering the mysteries of Corvo or Emily’s adventures can greatly impact the balance of Chaos in the respective games.

Conclusion
In the world of Dishonored, choice trumps force. By playing in release order, understanding non-lethal or lethal playthroughs, and recognizing the importance of exploration and Stealth, you’ll be all set for an immersive gaming experience that challenges your playstyle, storytelling preferences, or problem-solving methods.

Play the Dishonored series in release order to unlock the potential of your choices and watch the narrative unfold. Trust us – it’s more than just a game series; it’s an incredible journey waiting to be unlocked with these amazing new stories at your fingertips.

Want to Start with Dishonored: Death of the Outsider?

Go for it! While DOO may be the ‘newcomer’ without a strict chronological order or direct impact on the central storyline, it’s crafted as an exceptional standalone spin-off that provides an engrossing, action-focused experience.

However, take note: Death of the Outsider doesn’t incorporate the Chaos system, altering the story, and non-lethal options are few and far between. We recommend considering this as an introductory title as it allows for a strong, fast-paced thrill ride, and an intuitive introduction to the Dishonored series.