Nukezilla Review: Dishonored (Xbox 360)

This late into the console cycle it’s rare to see a new tripple-A IP hit the market, but Arkane Studios and Bethesda Softworks introduces gamers to the plague infested city of Dunwall with Dishonored. Does this newcomer do enough to stand out in the crowded, sequel-filled holiday?

This first person stealth game puts players under the mask of Corvo Attano, a disgraced bodyguard who is framed of murdering the Empress. Corvo seeks his revenge and also to help find the missing Empress’ daughter Emily in order to clear his name.

Instead of killing everything in sight, stealth is Corvo’s main tool in fighting his conspirators. Weapons like a sleep darts can put enemies to sleep from a distance, or players can sneak behind to knock a guard unconscious to get the kill.

Dishonored gives the player a ridiculous amount of choice. Players can choose to be as stealthy or as loud and violent as they wish, but there are consequences to both actions. Killing enemies can open or close dialog options and missions depending on how an enemy was killed. It’s really interesting to see the world change based on your violent or benevolent actions.

Along with the wonderful toys Corvo carries he’s empowered with abilities to help in his quest that are incredibly fun to use.  Blink can teleport him to high locations so he can either sneak by or get the drop on guards, but the most satisfying and eerie power is the devouring swarm of rats Corvo can sick on a helpless enemy. It’s a small sample of some of the creative thinking and brilliant design that has gone into this game.

With all of the options given to the player to make their way through the game it can be pretty lengthy if savored, but players who run in guns blazing can probably get through it in 6 hours. But it’s a tragedy if they don’t stop and tinker with all of the possible ways to interact with this rich playground.

Dishonored is a brilliant pallet cleanser in this late console cycle of sequels and remakes. Every gamer who enjoys choice will absolutely eat up the multiple paths and variety here.

Disclaimer: Bethesda provided a copy of this game for review.