
Dishonored 2
"Choose your champion. Shape the world."
Score
88.0/10
Overview
Arkane Lyon released this action-adventure stealth sequel on November 11, 2016, for Windows, PlayStation 4, and Xbox One. The story picks up fifteen years after the first game when Empress Emily Kaldwin faces a coup led by the witch Delilah Copperspoon. Players choose between playing as Corvo Attano or Emily to reclaim the throne of the Isles. This dual protagonist structure lets fans see the same events through the eyes of an experienced veteran or a young ruler just stepping into power.
The game takes place across two distinct cities: the industrial gothic sprawl of Dunwall and the sun-drenched port of Karnaca. Developers drew inspiration from 1851 Mediterranean locations like Larnaca, Italy, and Spain to create a vibrant contrast to the grim atmosphere of the original title. A cast including Rosario Dawson, Sam Rockwell, and Pedro Pascal provided voice work for the characters, adding emotional depth to the narrative.
Gameplay
This immersive sim refines the formula established by its predecessor with non-linear level design that encourages multiple approaches. Players navigate complex environments using supernatural abilities, gadgets, and environmental interactions rather than linear corridors. Each character brings a unique toolkit to the table; Corvo retains powers like Blink and Possession while gaining new variations, whereas Emily wields Far Reach, Bend Time, and Soul Swap.
A Chaos system tracks player behavior throughout the journey. Killing enemies or causing destruction raises the Chaos level, triggering plague outbreaks and darker story outcomes. Choosing non-lethal methods lowers Chaos, leading to more hopeful endings. Players collect runes and bone charms to unlock upgrades, allowing deep customization of their preferred playstyle.
Story
The narrative opens in the year 1852 within the fictional Empire of the Isles. After defeating the Lord Regent and ending the Rat Plague, Corvo Attano served as protector to Empress Emily Kaldwin. Now fifteen years later, a coup orchestrated by the witch Delilah Copperspoon forces Emily into exile in the Void. Corvo must rally allies to rescue her and restore order to the kingdom.
The plot unfolds across the decaying streets of Dunwall and the tropical port city of Karnaca. Players witness how their choices ripple through these settings, altering the physical state of the world and the fate of its inhabitants. The story emphasizes agency, showing how different paths lead to drastically different political landscapes and personal fates for the supporting cast.
Trailers
Awards & Acclaim
Game Critics Awards: Best Action/Adventure Game: (2016)
Golden Joystick Awards: Ultimate Game of the Year: (2016)
BAFTA Games Awards: Best Game: (2017)
Keywords
Sources
Game Info
- Developer
- Arkane Lyon
- Publisher
- Bethesda Softworks
- Engine
- id Tech 4 (modified)
- Release Date
- November 11, 2016
- Age Rating
- Mature 17+
- Modes
- Single-player
- Platforms
- Microsoft Windows, PlayStation 4, Xbox One
- Composer
- Daniel Licht
- Voice Cast
- Sam Rockwell, Rosario Dawson, Pedro Pascal, Masiela Lusha
- Setting
- Empire of the Isles (Dunwall and Karnaca)
- Time Period
- 1852 (15 years after Dishonored)
Join the community
fans discussing

