Dishonored
" Immersive action-adventure with supernatural powers and mission freedom but clunky sword combat "
Dishonored Review
Dishonored is widely regarded as a masterclass in stealth-action gameplay, offering players remarkable freedom in how they approach each mission. Set in the plague-ridden, steampunk-inspired city of Dunwall, players control Corvo Attano, framed for the Empress's murder and seeking revenge. The game excels in immersive world-building, with a dark, atmospheric setting enriched by complex characters and a morally engaging chaos system that influences the story and endings.
The gameplay combines supernatural powers, stealth mechanics, and versatile combat options, rewarding creativity and multiple playstyles. While the graphics show their age, the distinctive art style remains striking and timeless. The game also features acclaimed DLCs that deepen the lore and character arcs. Despite minor issues like repetitive voice acting and some clunky combat elements, Dishonored stands as a timeless, highly replayable immersive sim that continues to influence the stealth genre and remains a must-play title.
Highlights
Players praise Dishonored for its exceptional gameplay mechanics, especially the freedom to choose stealth or lethal approaches, and the creative use of supernatural powers like Blink and Bend Time.
The game's rich, dystopian steampunk world and strong atmosphere are frequently highlighted, with excellent level design and immersive storytelling.
The moral choice system and chaos mechanics add depth, impacting the world and multiple endings, boosting replay value.
Additionally, the DLCs (The Knife of Dunwall and The Brigmore Witches) are celebrated for expanding the story and character development, particularly of the anti-hero Daud.
Criticisms
Common criticisms include the clunky first-person sword combat and occasional frustration with stealth mechanics, such as awkward Blink aiming and limited vision powers.
The moral choice system, while praised, is sometimes seen as binary and immersion-breaking due to the pressure to avoid lethal methods for the good ending.
Voice acting is noted as repetitive and low quality in some areas, and the ending lacks a strong climax.
Some players find the Dunwall City Trials DLC frustrating and luck-based. Minor bugs exist but generally do not detract significantly from the experience.
Pros
- • Exceptional freedom in mission approaches and playstyles enhances player creativity.
- • Supernatural powers add unique tactical depth and gameplay variety.
- • Rich, immersive steampunk world-building and atmospheric design.
- • Multiple endings influenced by player choices and chaos system.
- • Excellent level design with intricate, sandbox-style missions.
- • High replay value supported by diverse strategies and DLC content.
- • Strong storytelling with morally complex characters and political intrigue.
Cons
- • First-person sword combat feels clunky and unsatisfying.
- • Moral choice system feels binary and punishes lethal playstyles.
- • Some powers like Dark Vision and Blink can be frustrating to use.
- • Repetitive and low-quality voice acting for some NPCs.
- • Ending is anticlimactic with limited narrative payoff.
- • Dunwall City Trials DLC is considered luck-based and frustrating.
- • Occasional minor bugs and technical issues reported.
Rating Criteria
Dishonored is an immersive first-person action game that casts you as a supernatural assassin driven by revenge. With Dishonored’s flexible combat system, creatively eliminate your targets as you combine the supernatural abilities, weapons and unusual gadgets at your disposal.
