Dishonored is an FPP stealth action game developed by Arkane Studios and published by Bethesda Softworks. The player controls Corvo, a former bodyguard-turned-assassin, who is sent on several assassination missions.
The game emphasizes free choice of how to undertake missions, with the player being able to carry out their tasks in various unscripted ways, using different tools and Corvo's unique abilities. The game received critical acclaim, with reviewers praising the style of the title and diverse gameplay mechanics.
The Definitive Edition of Dishonored includes four DLCs released for the title:
- The Knife of Dunwall,
- The Brigmore Witches,
- Dunwall City Trials,
- Void Walker's Arsenal.
Stealth and action gameplay
Dishonored main gameplay feature is how it blends action and stealth mechanics. The player is able to choose how do they want to carry out their missions: burst in guns blazing, killing everyone in the flashiest way possible, or stealthily dispose of the enemies, hiding in shadows and attacking when they suspect it the least.
The game's missions are set within self-contained levels, constructed in a way that offers several ways of carrying them out. In between tasks, Corvo returns to the Hound Pits Pub, where he can talk with the NPCs, receive briefings and upgrade his tools with the loot collected during missions.
The game features RPG elements, allowing Corvo to upgrade his equipment and magical abilities. Moral choices are also a part of the gameplay, with the player able to decide whether or not to kill their enemies. The more death and destruction the player causes, the bigger the „chaos” factor becomes, affecting the narrative of the game.
Story of revenge and redemption
Corvo Attano, a bodyguard to the Empress of the Isles, returns to the city of Dunwall after long travels. The city has fallen into chaos, caused by the spread of the plague. As he visits the Empress, both of them are attacked by assassins. They immobilize Corvo with magic, kill the Empress and kidnap her daughter, Emily. Framed for the murder, Corvo is imprisoned, and the Empress' Spymaster – the mastermind behind the assassination – seizes power. On the day of his execution, Corvo is rescued by the Loyalist and transported to their hideout. From there he begins his quest to clear his name, avenge the killed ruler and rescue Emily.
Dishonored Definitive Edition
The Definitive Edition of Dishonored includes four DLCs.
In The Knife of Dunwall and The Brigmore Witches, the player controls the character of Daud, a master assassin. Playing as Daud gives the player access to new abilities and weapons in a completely different story. The Dunwall City Trials have the player participate in a series of challenges testing their magical, stealth and combat skills. Void Walker's Arsenal adds content available for those who pre-ordered the game, including character bonuses and more.
Reception
Dishonored for PC received a very positive reception from the critics. Reviewers were full of praise for the game's mechanics, blending fast-paced action with stealth and role-playing elements. The story of the game was likewise praised, especially the voice acting provided by Susan Sarandon, Brad Dourif, Carrie Fisher, and Michael Madsen among others. Dishonored won several awards, including Best Action-Adventure Game at the 2012 Spike Game Awards.
Key features
- A combination of stealth and action gameplay
- Various methods of carrying out each mission
- Self-contained levels crafted to facilitate different gameplay styles
- A gripping story, with stellar voice acting
- A large array of tools and magical powers at the player's disposal
