Arkane reveals Dishonored 2 gameplay, Collector's Edition

At this year's BE3 press conference, publisher Bethesda revealed the first gameplay for developer Arkane's anticipated Dishonored 2.

Dishonored 2 will explore Karnaca, which was created using a custom engine called the Void Engine. Dishonored 2 stars two characters — Corvo Attano, the returning protagonist and former bodyguard and agent of the dead Empress of The Empires of the Isles from the original Dishonored, along with Emily Kaldwin, daughter of the Empress — and Corvo — and rightful heir to the throne. Each character has their own story beats and abilities, making for what Bethesda claims is very different gameplay.

On-stage, Arkane's Harvey Smith explained that in crafting Dishonored 2, the developer tried to imagine how Emily's past experiences would have shaped her; the game is set 15 years after the first Dishonored.

"We envisioned Emily grown up," Smith said."Twenty-five years of age."

Further gameplay demonstrated a mission set in the Dust District, where Smith said players will have multiple ways to complete their mission. Players are encouraged to explore the game vertically, Smith said, pointing to the use of rooftops over streets. As Emily continues her mission, she uses the wind — a unique aspect of Karnaca, Smith said — to power or turn off machines. She's also able to use her mesmerize ability to distract enemies and avoid combat completely; all of Emily's powers will be new and upgradable, Smith added. In a demonstration of her domino power, Emily is able to link several foes together.

"There are many creative ways to use domino," Smith said.

In a second demo, Smith narrated a mission called "A Crack in the Slab," which takes place in a ruined manner sealed for several years. After jumping backwards in time, the player is able to see the manner while it was still inhabited; they can then jump back and forth to carry out their mission.

Dishonored 2 will release on PS4, Xbox One and PC on November 11, 2016. The game will also be available in a limited Collector’s Edition, pictured below.

Celebrate Emily and Corvo w/ #Dishonored2's Collector's Edition feat.Corvo's mask replica and Emily's ring pic.twitter.com/yFC0njzNgG

— Bethesda Softworks (@bethesda) June 13, 2016

Dishonored 2: Emily Kaldwin