The Outsider
A timeless observer who grants powers to those brave enough to carve their own destiny.
The Outsider is a mysterious, supernatural entity who exists outside of time and space within the pre-existing Void. He explicitly denies being a deity, stating 'I am not your god,' yet acts as an observer who grants powers to those he deems interesting or worthy of his attention. His presence is marked by a single glowing blue eye on his forehead and a permanent, enigmatic smile that hints at secrets only he knows.
- Role
- Supernatural Entity / Source of Powers
- Affiliation
- The Void
- First Appears
- Dishonored (2012)
- Status
- Alive and Observing
- Domain
- The Void
- Symbolism
- Choice, Chaos, and Fate
Lore & Background
The Outsider’s relationship with humanity is complex and often misunderstood. Some revere him as a deity, while others fear him as a trickster or a demon. He demands no worship, yet his mark—a glowing blue eye—appears on those he chooses, binding them to the Void in ways they cannot fully comprehend. His actions are driven by curiosity rather than morality; he lacks omniscience regarding specific outcomes and has admitted surprise at events such as Billie Lurk's actions, making him an unpredictable force in the affairs of men.
In Their Own Story
In the dim light of a forgotten temple, a lone figure knelt before a stone pedestal carved with strange runes. The air grew thick with static as a shadow detached itself from the wall, coalescing into a tall, gaunt form with a single glowing eye. "You seek power," the voice echoed, not spoken but felt within the mind. "But power demands a price." The figure hesitated, then reached out, their hand trembling as they touched the Outsider's mark. A surge of energy coursed through them, and for a fleeting moment, the boundaries between worlds blurred.
Reader's Guide
The Outsider is central to the Dishonored narrative, acting as both a catalyst and a mirror for the player's choices. He grants supernatural abilities known as Powers, which allow characters like Corvo Attano and Emily Kaldwin to manipulate time, space, and life itself. His influence extends beyond mere gameplay mechanics; he represents themes of free will versus fate. By choosing how to use his gifts, players determine whether their actions lead to chaos or order, reflecting the Outsider's role as an impartial observer. Though rarely seen directly, his presence permeates the world through shrines, visions, and the whispers of those who have touched the Void. To understand the Dishonored universe is to grapple with the enigmatic nature of this timeless being.
Did You Know?
- The Outsider's mark appears on anyone he chooses, regardless of their intentions or morality.
- He did not create the Void; it is a pre-existing plane where souls reside that he inhabits.
- Despite his immense power, the Outsider rarely intervenes directly in mortal affairs and does not know all future outcomes.
- His iconic blue eye symbolizes his connection to the Void, but he has stated he cannot see every possibility or outcome.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is The Outsider?
The Outsider is an ancient, supernatural entity existing outside of time and space who serves as the primary source of magical powers in the Dishonored universe. He is neither inherently good nor evil but acts as a detached observer fascinated by those who carve their own destinies.
What are The Outsider's powers and role?
His primary function is to grant supernatural abilities, known as 'powers,' to individuals he deems interesting or worthy of his attention. He resides in the Void, a dimension beyond reality, and can manifest physically through portals marked by his signature blue eye.
How does The Outsider's story end?
The Outsider has no definitive ending because he is an immortal observer who continues to watch history unfold regardless of individual human fates. His narrative arc focuses on the consequences of the choices made by those he empowers rather than a personal resolution.
Why is The Outsider important to the lore?
He represents the themes of choice, chaos, and fate, acting as the catalyst for every major supernatural event in the series. Without his intervention, characters would lack the abilities needed to alter their circumstances or challenge established orders.
What does The Outsider's appearance symbolize?
His glowing blue eye on his forehead signifies his all-seeing nature, while his permanent enigmatic smile suggests he knows secrets that remain hidden from everyone else. This look reinforces his role as a mysterious figure who watches humanity with detached amusement.
More in Lore & History
Elsewhere in the Dishonored universe
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