Dishonored 2 Review: A Masterclass in Stealth and Storytelling

Dishonored 2 Review: A Masterclass in Stealth and Storytelling

Introduction

Dishonored 2, the highly anticipated sequel to 2012’s critically acclaimed Dishonored, was released in 2016 by Arkane Lyon and published by Bethesda Softworks. Available on PlayStation 4, Windows, and Xbox One, this action-adventure game builds upon the foundation laid by its predecessor, offering players an even more intricate world, complex characters, and a refined blend of stealth and action gameplay. In this review, we’ll explore how Dishonored 2 not only lives up to the legacy of the original but in many ways surpasses it, delivering a rich and immersive experience that stands out in the genre.

Gameplay Mechanics

Dishonored 2’s gameplay is a brilliant fusion of stealth, exploration, and combat. Players can choose between two protagonists: Corvo Attano, the lead from the first game, and Emily Kaldwin, the Empress of Dunwall. Each character has a unique set of abilities, which significantly alters the way you approach the game. Corvo’s abilities will be familiar to those who played the first game, with his time-bending and teleportation powers, while Emily introduces new mechanics like “Far Reach” and “Domino,” allowing for creative approaches to stealth and combat.

The game’s level design is nothing short of exceptional. Each mission offers a sprawling environment filled with secrets, alternative pathways, and hidden objectives, giving players the freedom to approach their targets in myriad ways. Whether you prefer to take a non-lethal route, sneaking past guards and using tranquilizers, or to embrace chaos with lethal force, the game accommodates both playstyles seamlessly.

One of the most praised aspects of Dishonored 2 is the "Clockwork Mansion" level, a masterpiece of design where the environment itself shifts and changes as you explore, offering new routes and challenges. This level, along with others, showcases the game’s commitment to providing a truly dynamic experience where player choice is paramount.

Story and Characters

Set 15 years after the events of the first game, Dishonored 2 plunges players into a world where the throne of Dunwall is under threat. The story kicks off with a coup that sees Emily deposed, forcing her and Corvo into hiding. The narrative is engaging, weaving themes of revenge, power, and morality throughout its plot. The game’s branching storylines and multiple endings are directly influenced by the player’s actions, offering a personalized narrative experience that encourages replayability.

The characters are well-developed, with both Emily and Corvo having distinct personalities and motivations. Their relationship adds emotional depth to the story, as they navigate the complex world of politics, magic, and assassination. The game’s antagonist, Delilah Copperspoon, is a formidable foe, her backstory and motivations making her a compelling character in her own right.

Visuals and Sound

Dishonored 2 boasts a stunning visual style that combines the steampunk aesthetic of the first game with richly detailed environments and characters. The city of Karnaca, where most of the game takes place, is beautifully rendered, with a mix of decaying grandeur and vibrant coastal life. The art direction enhances the game’s atmosphere, creating a world that feels both lived-in and otherworldly.

The game’s sound design is equally impressive. The voice acting is top-notch, with each character delivering believable and emotionally resonant performances. The soundtrack, composed by Daniel Licht, perfectly complements the game’s tone, with haunting melodies that heighten the tension and drama of each mission.

Replayability

Dishonored 2 is a game that begs to be played multiple times. The choice between Emily and Corvo alone offers two distinct playthroughs, each with different abilities and perspectives on the story. Moreover, the game’s emphasis on player choice means that no two playthroughs are exactly the same. Whether you aim for a high-chaos, lethal approach, or a low-chaos, non-lethal run, the game’s outcomes will vary, encouraging experimentation and exploration.

Dishonored 2 FAQ

1. What is Dishonored 2?

• Answer: Dishonored 2 is a 2016 action-adventure game developed by Arkane Lyon and published by Bethesda Softworks. It is the sequel to the 2012 game Dishonored and is available on PlayStation 4, Windows, and Xbox One.

2. Who are the playable characters in Dishonored 2?

• Answer: Players can choose between two characters: Corvo Attano, the protagonist of the first game, and Emily Kaldwin, the Empress of Dunwall. Each character has unique abilities and a distinct playstyle.

3. How does the gameplay differ between Corvo and Emily?

• Answer: Corvo retains the abilities from the first game, such as "Blink" (teleportation) and "Bend Time." Emily, on the other hand, has new abilities like "Far Reach," a grappling hook-like power, and "Domino," which links the fate of multiple enemies. This difference allows for varied approaches to stealth and combat.

4. Is it possible to play Dishonored 2 non-lethally?

• Answer: Yes, Dishonored 2 allows for non-lethal playthroughs. Players can use stealth, non-lethal takedowns, and tranquilizer darts to complete the game without killing enemies. Your choices affect the game’s ending and the overall chaos level in the world.

5. What is the "chaos" system in Dishonored 2?

• Answer: The chaos system tracks the player's actions throughout the game. High chaos results from killing many enemies and causing destruction, leading to a darker world and a more tragic ending. Low chaos, achieved through non-lethal and stealthy play, results in a more optimistic outcome.

6. How long is the average playthrough of Dishonored 2?

• Answer: A single playthrough of Dishonored 2 typically takes around 12 to 20 hours, depending on the player’s approach (stealthy vs. aggressive) and exploration of the game’s environments. However, multiple playthroughs are encouraged to experience both characters and different outcomes.

7. What is the "Clockwork Mansion" level?

• Answer: The "Clockwork Mansion" is one of Dishonored 2’s most famous levels. It features a mechanically shifting environment where walls, floors, and rooms move and change configuration as you navigate the mansion. This level is a highlight of the game’s innovative design.

8. Does Dishonored 2 have multiple endings?

• Answer: Yes, Dishonored 2 has multiple endings based on the player's choices throughout the game, including the chaos level and key decisions made during the story. These endings provide different outcomes for the characters and the world.

9. Are there any DLCs or expansions for Dishonored 2?

• Answer: Dishonored 2 does not have traditional DLC, but there is a standalone expansion called Dishonored: Death of the Outsider, which follows a new character, Billie Lurk, in a story that serves as a conclusion to the Dishonored series.

10. Can I customize the difficulty in Dishonored 2?

• Answer: Yes, Dishonored 2 offers multiple difficulty settings, ranging from easy to very hard. Additionally, the game includes a custom difficulty mode where players can adjust various gameplay elements, such as enemy awareness and health regeneration.

11. Does Dishonored 2 have a new game plus (NG+) mode?

• Answer: Yes, Dishonored 2 features a New Game Plus mode. After completing the game, players can start a new playthrough with all the abilities and upgrades they unlocked in their previous run. This mode also allows players to mix and match abilities from both Corvo and Emily.

12. How does the game perform on different platforms?

• Answer: Dishonored 2 generally performs well across platforms, but some players have reported performance issues on Windows, particularly at launch. Patches and updates have improved stability, but it’s recommended to check system requirements and reviews for the latest information on performance.

13. Can I switch between Corvo and Emily during the game?

• Answer: No, once you choose your character at the start of the game, you cannot switch between Corvo and Emily during that playthrough. However, you can start a new game to experience the other character's abilities and storyline.

14. What are the system requirements for playing Dishonored 2 on PC?

• Answer: Dishonored 2 requires a mid-to-high-end PC for optimal performance. The minimum requirements include an Intel i5-2400 or AMD FX-8320 processor, 8 GB RAM, and an NVIDIA GTX 660 2GB or AMD Radeon HD 7970 3GB graphics card. For the best experience, higher specifications are recommended.

15. Is Dishonored 2 worth playing if I haven’t played the first game?

• Answer: While Dishonored 2 can be enjoyed as a standalone game, playing the first Dishonored will enhance your understanding of the story and character motivations. The sequel builds on the lore and events of the original, making it more rewarding for those familiar with the series.

Conclusion

Dishonored 2 is a masterclass in stealth gameplay, storytelling, and world-building. It takes the best elements of the original game and elevates them, offering players a richly detailed world filled with meaningful choices and consequences. The game’s blend of intricate level design, varied combat mechanics, and engaging narrative makes it a standout title in the action-adventure genre. Whether you’re a fan of stealth games or simply enjoy well-crafted stories, Dishonored 2 is an experience not to be missed.