Dishonored: Return of the Stealth Action-Adventure Franchise is a video game franchise released in 2012 by Bethesda Softworks and developed by Arkane Studios. It is a single-player stealth action-adventure game with heavy emphasis on strategy and stealth mechanics, and is set in the fictional land of Dunwall. Players assume the role of a supernatural assassin who has the ability to possess individuals and move through the world unseen, and must use these supernatural powers to avoid or engage enemies, and complete objectives. The game has received critical praise for its unique and well-crafted design, with its carefully balanced blend of stealth and action-adventure gameplay.
The Dishonored series is set in Dunwall, a steampunk-infused city inspired by London during the Victorian era. The game begins when the mysterious character known as the Outsider grants the protagonist, Corvo Attano, supernatural abilities such as teleportation and possession. Corvo is framed for the murder of the Empress of Dunwall, and must enlist the assistance of a group of characters to clear his name and restore peace to the city. The game follows Corvo and his allies as they complete missions and pursue revenge on those responsible for the Empress' death.
The game makes use of several core mechanics that set it apart from other stealth games. One of the most interesting elements is the way in which players interact with the environment. The game has several opportunities for creative problem solving, allowing players to interact with objects in the environment in order to solve puzzles or manipulate enemies. For instance, objects can be used as distractions or traps, and enemies can be manipulated by luring them away or setting them up for electrocution.
Dishonored also features a flexible approach to combat and stealth. The game rewards players for taking risks in order to gain an advantage over enemies, but also encourages careful strategy in order to succeed without detection. During missions, players can use their supernatural abilities along with weapons and gadgets to take on enemies in a variety of ways. Players who prefer to remain unseen can take a stealth approach, using darkness and shadows to hide from enemies and limit confrontations. Players who opt for a faster-paced approach can engage in combat and use their supernatural abilities to gain an advantage over enemies.
The player also has at their disposal a variety of weapons to choose from. Melee weapons such as swords, crossbows and daggers are used to deal direct damage to enemies. Ranged weapons including pistols, machine guns and throwable objects provide further options. Additionally, the game features a range of customisable gadgets that can be used to access areas that would otherwise remain inaccessible. These vary from devices that act as a grappling hook or elevator to a heart that reveals secrets about characters and locations within Dunwall.
Players are also able to choose between two difficulty levels — Flee or Fight. The Flee difficulty focuses on stealth and evasion, rewarding players for avoiding confrontation and enemies in favor of finding alternative routes to objectives. The Fight difficulty focuses on combat and allows players to approach enemies more aggressively. It also increases the damage dealt to enemies and reduces the amount of health recovered by the player.
Finally, Dishonored also features a variety of character upgrades and customisations. As the player progresses through the game, Corvo can unlock additional abilities and upgrade existing ones. The game also features a levelling system which grants access to more powerful abilities as the player continues to progress. Furthermore, players can choose between a range of different clothing and armour to customise their appearance.
All in all, Dishonored: Return of the Stealth Action-Adventure Franchise is an excellent example of how to create a unique and engaging game experience. The game's combination of stealth, action and strategy along with its serious yet vibrant atmosphere, make it an enjoyable and exciting experience. While the game does not offer much in terms of storyline, the various scenarios and challenges presented in the game make up for it. Undoubtedly, the game offers a unique and satisfying experience and stands as a testament to the strength of well-crafted game design.
