Domino
Link your enemies together so that harming one destroys them all.
Domino is a unique supernatural ability within the Dishonored universe, functioning as a tactical tool for those who wield the Void's power. Unlike standard combat spells or stealth utilities, Domino allows the user to link multiple targets together through an invisible metaphysical chain. When one linked entity takes damage, that same injury is instantly reflected upon all other connected subjects. This creates a devastating area-of-effect mechanic that turns enemy formations into liabilities against themselves.
- Type
- Supernatural Power
- Source
- The Void / Outsider's Mark
- Primary Users
- Corvo Attano, Emily Kaldwin
- Game Appearances
- Dishonored, Dishonored 2
- Mechanic
- Damage Reflection
- Status
- Active in the timeline
Lore & Background
Historically, the use of Domino has been observed during the chaotic conflicts in Dunwall and Karnaca. It is particularly effective against groups of heavily armored soldiers or beastly creatures like weepers and clockwork soldiers, where traditional stealth might be insufficient. The visual representation of the power involves a spectral chain binding the targets, a stark contrast to the steampunk industrial aesthetic of the world, highlighting the supernatural intrusion into daily life.
In Their Own Story
The rain slicked the cobblestones of the Distillery District as Corvo paused behind a crate. Three Whalers stood guard ahead, their gas masks hissing rhythmically. He raised his hand, the Outsider's mark glowing faintly on his wrist. A spectral tether snapped into existence, binding the three men in an invisible triangle. With a silent nod to the Void, he flicked a single domino from his pocket, striking the first guard with a precise blow. The impact echoed not just on that man, but simultaneously across the other two; they all staggered and fell as one, their own linked fate sealing their doom.
Reader's Guide
Domino is acquired by finding specific bone charms or activating power runes within the game world, typically available after progressing past the early chapters. It functions by allowing the player to select up to three targets simultaneously. Once linked, any damage dealt to one target—whether from a bullet, explosion, or melee strike—is instantly replicated across all linked entities. Strategically, this power excels in crowd control and high-chaos scenarios. Players can link heavily armored enemies who are otherwise difficult to kill quickly, then use a single explosive device or a well-placed shot to eliminate the entire group at once. It is also effective for non-lethal takedowns; hitting one linked enemy with a blunt weapon will knock out all of them instantly. The power can be upgraded through Bone Charms found throughout the city, which may increase the number of linkable targets or reduce the cooldown time between uses. Mastering Domino requires careful positioning, as the chain is only active while the user maintains focus on the selected group.
Did You Know?
- The visual effect of the power resembles a spectral chain connecting the targeted enemies.
- Domino works equally well against human guards and supernatural creatures like weepers.
- Using this power does not inherently increase chaos; it depends on whether the linked targets are killed or knocked out.
- The ability is exclusive to the Outsider's chosen champions, Corvo and Emily.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Domino in Dishonored?
Domino is a supernatural ability granted by the Outsider's Mark that allows users to link multiple enemies with an invisible metaphysical chain. When one connected target takes damage, that same injury is instantly inflicted on all other linked entities.
Which characters can use the Domino power?
This tactical tool is primarily wielded by Corvo Attano in Dishonored and Emily Kaldwin in Dishonored 2. Both assassins utilize it to turn enemy formations against themselves during combat encounters.
How does the Domino mechanic work in gameplay?
The power functions as a damage reflection system where harming a single linked target causes all connected subjects to suffer identical injuries simultaneously. This effectively eliminates groups of enemies with a single strike, turning their numbers into a liability.
Is Domino considered a combat spell or a stealth utility?
While it can be used strategically in stealth scenarios, Domino is fundamentally a combat-focused ability designed for eliminating multiple threats at once. It differs from standard spells by relying on damage reflection rather than direct attack or concealment.
Does Domino appear in both Dishonored games?
Yes, the power remains active throughout the timeline and appears as a key ability in both Dishonored and its sequel, Dishonored 2. It serves as a consistent tactical option for protagonists navigating the Void's influence across both titles.
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