Dishonored 2 expands on the non-lethal combat options from the first game, offering players a variety of ways to neutralize enemies without resorting to killing. Whether you aim for a low chaos playthrough or want to earn achievements like Clean Hands, this guide covers essential techniques, advanced strategies, and supernatural powers to keep your hands blood-free while still engaging in action-packed combat.

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The Basics: Chokehold and Environmental Awareness

The chokehold is your most basic non-lethal attack. Sneak behind an enemy, press the block button, and hold until they pass out. However, it’s slow and can leave you vulnerable if another enemy spots you. Here are key tactics to improve its effectiveness:

• Throw enemies mid-choke. Press the attack button while choking to throw them down, allowing for a quick follow-up knockout by pressing block again before they get up.
• Use enemies against each other. If you’re under attack, throw a choked-out enemy at another opponent to stagger them, buying you time to escape or counterattack.
• Be mindful of accidental deaths. Enemies can kill their allies by mistake, which counts against you. Always check your stats to confirm zero kills before saving progress.

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Non-Lethal Takedowns in Open Combat

Unlike Dishonored 1, Dishonored 2 allows non-lethal combat without forcing a stealth playthrough. If you’re engaged in a fight but want to avoid lethal measures:

• Block and Counter: Blocking an enemy’s attack throws them off balance. Instead of executing a lethal finisher, press the lock button to perform a non-lethal takedown.
• Kick Knockouts: Any knocked-down enemy can be rendered unconscious with a kick (press block while they’re on the ground).
• Use Sleep Darts in Combat: Normally, sleep darts take a few seconds to work, but upgrading to combat sleep darts makes them instant.
• Stun Mines: These mines can incapacitate multiple enemies at once. Upgrading them increases the number of charges, making them highly effective for crowd control.

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Advanced Physical Techniques

Beyond basic mechanics, Dishonored 2 includes creative ways to handle enemies non-lethally:

• Slide Knockout: Sprint and press crouch to slide into an enemy. If timed correctly, you’ll be given an option to knock them unconscious instead of assassinating.
• Drop Knockout: Normally used for drop assassinations, pressing block instead of attack during a drop will knock out the target instead of killing them.
• Thrown Objects for Knockouts: Strength upgrades allow thrown items like bottles and glasses to knock enemies out if hit in the head. Higher difficulty settings may require more strength upgrades for this to work.

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Emily’s Non-Lethal Supernatural Abilities

Emily Kaldwin’s powers open up several effective ways to incapacitate foes without lethal consequences:

• Domino: Links enemies together so they share the same fate. Knock one out, and all linked enemies will pass out as well. Great for taking down multiple foes at once.
• Shadow Walk: Transforms Emily into a shadowy figure that can sneak up on enemies. Pressing block instead of attack ensures a non-lethal takedown.
• Pull (Far Reach Upgrade): Allows Emily to yank enemies toward her and choke them out instantly. Be careful not to drop them from dangerous heights.

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Corvo’s Non-Lethal Supernatural Abilities

Corvo’s powers provide a different set of tools for non-lethal playthroughs:

• Blink Assault: Aimed directly at an enemy, a Blink followed by attack will send them flying. However, this can sometimes kill them, so check their status before saving.
• Wind Blast: Unupgraded Wind Blast can knock down multiple enemies without killing them. Avoid upgrading to Greater Wind Blast, as it can become lethal.
• Possession: Use Possession to take control of enemies and move them away from dangerous situations before releasing them safely.

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General Tips for a Successful Non-Lethal Run

• Save often. Accidentally killing an enemy can ruin a Clean Hands run. Check your stats frequently.
• Be mindful of enemy positioning. Throwing or knocking enemies into walls, over ledges, or into each other can accidentally kill them.
• Combine powers for efficiency. Using Domino with Stun Mines can neutralize entire groups without risk.
• Plan your approach. Each mission offers multiple routes—choose ones with fewer enemies or more environmental advantages.

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Final Thoughts

Dishonored 2 allows for a thrilling non-lethal experience without sacrificing action. By mastering these techniques, you can keep the chaos low while still enjoying combat and experimentation. With New Game+, you’ll even be able to mix and match Emily’s and Corvo’s abilities, leading to even more creative combinations.

If you have any additional tips or techniques, feel free to share them! Good luck, and may the Outsider watch over you.