Step into the shadows of Dunwall, a city steeped in industrial grime and arcane mystery. This immersive first-person action game places you in the role of a supernatural assassin seeking retribution. Framed for the murder of the Empress you were sworn to protect, you are cast out and branded a killer, known only by the unsettling mask you wear.

The world of Dunwall is a unique blend of steampunk-inspired technology and otherworldly forces, a city grappling with plague and ruled by a corrupt regime. As you navigate this treacherous landscape, dark powers offer you abilities far beyond those of ordinary men, but these gifts come with a profound cost. The truth behind your betrayal is as obscured as the city's fog-laden waters, and the life you once knew is irrevocably lost.

The World of Dunwall

Dunwall is a character in itself – a sprawling, industrial whaling city where the air is thick with soot and secrets. Its architecture reflects a society powered by whale oil and arcane energies, creating a distinct and atmospheric setting. The city's decay and the pervasive plague contribute to a palpable sense of desperation and corruption, setting the stage for a deeply personal quest for justice.

Unparalleled Player Agency and Choice

At its core, this game is defined by its commitment to player freedom. The flexible combat system allows for a multitude of approaches to every objective. You can choose to be a phantom, slipping through the darkness unseen, or a direct force, confronting your enemies head-on. The game actively tracks your actions and their consequences, ensuring that the outcome of each mission, and indeed the entire narrative, is shaped by the decisions you make.

A Symphony of Supernatural Abilities and Gadgets

To achieve your goals, you are equipped with a diverse arsenal. This includes conventional weaponry, but more importantly, a range of supernatural abilities and inventive gadgets. These tools can be creatively combined to overcome obstacles and eliminate targets in highly imaginative ways. Whether you're teleporting across rooftops, possessing rats to scout ahead, or manipulating time itself, the game encourages experimentation and rewards ingenuity.

Gameplay Mechanics and Progression

The gameplay loop revolves around infiltration, assassination, and evasion. Players are given a primary objective, but the path to achieving it is entirely up to them. Stealth is often rewarded, with opportunities to bypass guards, disable security systems, and reach your target without raising an alarm. Conversely, a more aggressive approach is also viable, though it may attract more attention and lead to different narrative consequences.

The Cost of Power

The supernatural abilities granted to you are not without their price. The game subtly explores the moral implications of wielding such power, and your choices regarding its use can influence the world around you and the perception of your character.

Core Game Information

Release and Platforms

This main game was released on October 9, 2012. It is available on Xbox 360, PC (Microsoft Windows), and PlayStation 3.

Genres

The game blends elements of Puzzle, Role-playing (RPG), and Adventure genres, offering a rich and multifaceted experience.

What is the core gameplay loop?

The core gameplay loop involves receiving an objective, planning an approach using the available supernatural powers, weapons, and gadgets, executing that plan through stealth or direct confrontation, and dealing with the consequences of your actions. This cycle repeats as you progress through the narrative, uncovering the truth behind your betrayal.