Inked and Involved: Exploring the Impact of Tattooing Yourself in Dishonored: Death of the Outsider

So, you’re playing Dishonored: Death of the Outsider and curious about that “Follow The Ink” mission, specifically the part where you might tattoo yourself. What exactly does happen?

Essentially, if Billie Lurk tattoos herself during the “Follow The Ink” mission, the screen fades to black during the cutscene, and when it returns, the tattooing device is gone. The crucial element is the choice of tattoo she receives. Your decision dictates the information you glean about the Eyeless gang and their connection to the ritual. It’s a strategic choice that affects how you proceed with the investigation, rather than a fundamental shift in gameplay mechanics. It is simply a narrative branching point within the mission. The tattoo, a specific piece of Eyeless iconography, allows Billie to blend in better and extract information from the group, furthering her quest to unravel the mysteries surrounding the Outsider.

Deep Dive into the “Follow The Ink” Mission

The “Follow The Ink” mission represents a pivotal moment in Death of the Outsider. Billie needs to infiltrate the Eyeless gang to gather intel on their activities, particularly their involvement with the cult that seeks to unmake the Outsider. This tattoo is not just cosmetic; it’s a key to unlocking new dialogue options and opportunities within the Eyeless stronghold.

The game doesn’t present permanent, cosmetic tattoos for Billie to acquire outside of this specific mission choice. This isn’t Cyberpunk 2077; there is not a tattoo parlor around every corner to customize Billie’s appearance. It’s a story-driven element designed to enhance the narrative and provide a gameplay advantage, if you choose to take the risk.

Narrative Ramifications

The chosen tattoo grants Billie access to specific knowledge and interactions. Without it, infiltrating the Eyeless proves more challenging, requiring alternative (and potentially noisier) approaches. The tattoo streamlines the process, allowing her to pose as an initiate and uncover vital information. Consider it a social key, opening doors that would otherwise remain locked.

Gameplay Implications

Opting for the tattoo isn’t without risk. It commits Billie to a specific path, closing off other potential avenues for gathering information. However, it also offers advantages, such as reduced suspicion from Eyeless members and access to insider knowledge. This ties directly into the game’s overall mechanics of choice and consequence, influencing the playstyle you adopt for that mission.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are some common questions players have about tattoos, the Outsider, and other related aspects of Dishonored:

1. Is The Mark of the Outsider always on the left hand? Yes, The Mark of the Outsider is almost always depicted on the left hand. This is often attributed to the symbolic significance of the left hand being closer to the heart, therefore closer to “God” as in the Outsider. It’s not an absolute rule, but it’s the prevailing depiction.

2. What does a Dishonored tattoo mean in the real world? In the real world, a Dishonored tattoo carries personal significance for the wearer. It signifies a connection to the game’s themes of power, morality, and the supernatural. The wearer most likely values the complex narrative and character development. Some may interpret it as a symbol of rebellion or embracing the unconventional.

3. What is the name of the outsiders in Dishonored? The Outsider’s name is, well, The Outsider. He was once a mortal boy sacrificed and transformed into a being of immense power. While some characters might refer to him by other names, “The Outsider” is his primary identifier.

4. What happened to the Outsider in Dishonored: Death of the Outsider? In Death of the Outsider, Billie Lurk confronts the Outsider, eventually leading to his removal from the Void. Players can choose to either kill him or free him, allowing him to experience a mortal life. Either way, his influence on the world diminishes significantly.

5. Is the Outsider a God? The Outsider is often considered a god-like figure due to his immense power and influence over the world. However, the game delves into the nature of divinity itself, raising questions about what truly defines a god. The Outsider himself was once human, adding a layer of complexity to his status. This relates to the broader discussion about learning through video games, and how game narratives can allow exploration of complex philosophical ideas, potentially leading to new modes of thinking for those engaged with the games. This idea ties in strongly with the goals of the Games Learning Society and can be investigated further at GamesLearningSociety.org.

6. Which Dishonored ending is canon? The low chaos ending is widely considered the most canon, as it aligns with the more optimistic tone and preserves the characters’ moral integrity. However, elements from high chaos endings sometimes seep into subsequent games, suggesting a degree of ambiguity.

7. Why does Corvo wear a mask? Corvo Attano wears a mask primarily to conceal his identity while operating outside the law to rescue Emily Kaldwin. The mask also adds to his intimidating presence as a skilled assassin.

8. Can you finish Dishonored without killing anyone? Yes, both Dishonored and Dishonored 2 feature a “Clean Hands” achievement for completing the game without killing anyone (excluding the prologue in Dishonored). It requires careful planning, non-lethal tactics, and mastery of stealth mechanics.

9. Why did the Outsider choose Corvo? The Outsider chooses individuals who pique his interest, often those in vulnerable positions facing unique challenges. Corvo’s situation as a falsely accused protector seeking to restore his honor made him a compelling candidate for the Mark.

10. Will there be a Dishonored 3? Rumors and leaks have suggested the possibility of Dishonored 3, but no official announcement has been made. Until Bethesda or Arkane Studios confirm its development, any information should be taken with a grain of salt.

11. What is the most regretted tattoo? Anecdotally, letterings and script tattoos are often cited as the most regretted tattoos. Names, symbols, and tribal designs also frequently appear on lists of tattoos people later regret. Laser tattoo removal is available for removing unwanted tattoos.

12. What is tattoo ghosting? “Ghosting” in tattoo removal refers to a faint, residual outline of the tattoo that remains after laser treatment. It’s caused by the incomplete breakdown of ink particles and usually fades over time.

13. Should I accept or reject the Outsider’s mark? Accepting the Mark grants you supernatural abilities, while rejecting it offers a more challenging, stealth-focused playthrough. It depends on your preferred playstyle and desired level of difficulty. There’s no “right” answer.

14. Do rats count as kills in Dishonored? Rats generally don’t count as kills unless you specifically summon them using powers. Environmental kills, like enemies falling into water or off ledges, can sometimes affect your chaos level, so be mindful of your surroundings.

15. Can you be a girl in Dishonored? Yes, Dishonored 2 allows you to play as either Corvo Attano or his daughter, Emily Kaldwin. Dishonored: Death of the Outsider features Billie Lurk as the sole protagonist.

In conclusion, the decision to tattoo yourself in Dishonored: Death of the Outsider is a small but meaningful one. It impacts your immediate gameplay experience and allows for deeper infiltration within the Eyeless gang. It highlights the game’s focus on player agency and the consequences of even seemingly minor choices.