Is Corvo Immune to the Rat Plague in Dishonored? A Deep Dive
Yes, Corvo Attano is indeed immune to the Rat Plague in Dishonored. While the game doesn’t explicitly state the exact reason for his immunity, there are several compelling theories and in-game mechanics that support this conclusion. It’s a combination of lore, gameplay, and perhaps a touch of the Outsider’s influence that protects Dunwall’s loyal protector. Let’s break down the evidence and explore the fascinating factors behind Corvo’s resilience.
The Vitality Factor: A Healing Advantage
One of the most popular theories revolves around Corvo’s passive ability, Vitality. As the provided text suggests, the Tier II Vitality ability allows Corvo to passively regenerate health. This effectively grants him a healing factor. In a world riddled with the Plague, this is a huge advantage. The constant regeneration might be enough to fight off the infection before it takes hold.
It’s important to note that this isn’t a complete cure, but rather a robust defense. The Plague is incredibly virulent. The Vitality ability could be constantly combating the disease within Corvo’s system, preventing him from succumbing to its effects.
The Elixir Connection: A Subtle Protection?
The text mentions Corvo’s frequent use of health elixirs, which in lore might have some protective qualities against the Plague. While not explicitly stated as Plague protection within the game, it’s plausible that the ingredients used in these elixirs have a subtle, preventative effect. Think of it as taking a daily supplement to boost your immune system. It may not make you completely immune to illness, but it can certainly reduce your susceptibility.
The Outsider’s Gift: More Than Just Powers
It’s undeniable that Corvo’s connection to the Outsider plays a significant role in his fate. The Outsider bestows upon him extraordinary powers, but this might also include an unspoken layer of protection. The Outsider’s Mark is known to grant resilience and push the boundaries of human potential. It’s not a stretch to consider that this supernatural connection extends to defending against something as devastating as the Rat Plague. The Outsider chose Corvo for a reason, and that reason might involve his survival in a plague-stricken city.
The Gameplay Perspective: Narrative Convenience
From a gameplay perspective, it makes sense for Corvo to be immune. Imagine having to constantly worry about contracting the Plague while trying to navigate the dangerous streets of Dunwall. It would severely limit the player’s freedom and enjoyment. By making Corvo immune, the developers allow the player to focus on the core gameplay mechanics: stealth, combat, and the utilization of supernatural powers. The storyline is rich, but it could become extremely difficult if Corvo got sick.
The Legacy of Corvo Attano
Ultimately, Corvo survives the events of Dishonored, and if you achieve the low chaos ending, he lives to a ripe old age, dying of natural causes and being buried beside Empress Jessamine. This demonstrates his inherent resilience and survival despite the overwhelming odds stacked against him. His immunity to the Plague is a critical component of his survival and eventual triumph over the forces that sought to destroy him and Dunwall.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How did Corvo die in the Canon ending?
In the low chaos ending, Corvo dies of natural causes after a long and fulfilling life, serving as a protector and advisor to Empress Emily.
2. What happened to Corvo in Dishonored 2?
In Dishonored 2, Corvo is still a playable character and an integral part of the story. He is not dead and continues to protect Emily from new threats.
3. Who was responsible for starting the Rat Plague?
Hiram Burrows, the Royal Spymaster, deliberately introduced the Pandyssian Bull Rat into Dunwall’s poorer districts, leading to the devastating Plague.
4. If Corvo is immune, can others become immune as well?
There is no evidence in the lore that others can develop the same immunity as Corvo. His immunity is likely unique to his specific circumstances, his connection to the Outsider, and his potential Vitality ability.
5. Does Emily have the same immunity as Corvo?
While not explicitly stated, it’s likely that Emily possesses a similar level of resilience, especially in the low chaos ending. She doesn’t fall ill during Dishonored 2. The specific mechanism of her resilience, however, remains ambiguous.
6. Does Corvo’s mask offer any protection against the Plague?
Corvo’s mask is primarily designed for concealment and protection from physical harm. While it might offer a minor barrier against airborne contaminants, it is unlikely to provide significant protection against the Rat Plague.
7. Could Corvo theoretically be infected but never show symptoms?
It’s possible that Corvo could be infected but remain asymptomatic due to his healing factor constantly suppressing the disease. The game mechanics do not have any symptoms coded in, even if he got infected.
8. What if Corvo didn’t have the Vitality ability? Would he get the plague?
Without the Vitality ability, Corvo’s chances of contracting the Plague would likely be significantly higher. However, his connection to the Outsider might still provide some level of protection.
9. Does the Heart reveal anything about Corvo’s immunity to the Plague?
The Heart, which speaks the thoughts and secrets of those nearby, doesn’t specifically mention Corvo’s immunity to the Plague. However, it may reveal insights into his resilience and inner strength, which could be related.
10. Is there any official confirmation from the developers about Corvo’s immunity?
The developers have not provided a definitive, in-universe explanation for Corvo’s immunity. The explanations are found within the context of the game. The lack of explicit detail leaves room for interpretation and fan theories.
11. How does Corvo’s Bend Time power affect the Plague?
The Bend Time power doesn’t directly affect the Plague itself. However, it allows Corvo to avoid dangerous situations and escape from infected areas more easily, indirectly reducing his risk of exposure.
12. Does Corvo’s low chaos or high chaos affect whether or not Corvo gets sick?
Whether Corvo kills people or not doesn’t affect the game’s mechanics on Corvo’s immunity. The immunity doesn’t change based on the chaos levels.
13. Why Doesn’t Emily Call Corvo Dad?
This is due to the nature of Corvo’s relationship with Empress Jessamine Kaldwin, Emily’s mother. Their love was secret and for much of Emily’s childhood, Corvo was not publicly known as her father.
14. Can Corvo stop time?
Yes, one of Corvo’s powers, Bend Time, allows him to slow down or completely stop time. This ability, granted by the Outsider, greatly enhances his combat and stealth capabilities.
15. Can Daud Beat Corvo?
Daud can beat Corvo. Only in low chaos is it possible to actually defeat Corvo and gain the special action.
Understanding Corvo’s resilience to the Rat Plague requires considering multiple factors: in-game mechanics, narrative context, and even the unseen influence of the Outsider. His immunity is not just a plot convenience but an integral aspect of his character and his journey through the treacherous world of Dishonored. Interested in learning more about the educational applications of video games? Visit the Games Learning Society at GamesLearningSociety.org.