Easter Eggs & References

As a signature of Arkane Studios, Deathloop is a treasure trove of subtle nods and overt homages to their acclaimed previous titles, most notably the Dishonored series and Prey. These references not only enrich the lore of Blackreef but also hint at a potential shared universe or at least a consistent artistic and narrative philosophy across Arkane's portfolio. Diligent explorers will be rewarded with delightful discoveries, often found in obscure notes, environmental details, or even character dialogue.

While many of these are visual or textual, they serve to deepen the player's appreciation for Arkane's intricate world-building. Keep your eyes peeled and your ears open, as these Easter eggs are often cleverly integrated into the game's looping structure, sometimes appearing only under specific conditions or in particular time periods.

Arkane Universe Connections

Arkane Studios is renowned for its interconnected game worlds, and Deathloop continues this tradition. Many references point directly to the Dishonored series, suggesting a shared lineage or at least a strong thematic link.

The Outsider's Mark: While not explicitly called the Outsider's Mark, observant players might notice a symbol resembling it in various locations. One prominent example is found in Updaam, during the Afternoon, near the entrance to the library. Look for graffiti on walls or subtle etchings on environmental objects. This symbol, often associated with supernatural powers and moral ambiguity in Dishonored, takes on new meaning within the context of Blackreef's anomalous properties.
Tyvia and Pandyssia: These names, familiar to fans of Dishonored, occasionally appear in notes, books, or overheard conversations. For instance, in Karl's Bay, during the Evening, inside the "Forever Young" workshop (where Harriet Morse resides), you might find old shipping manifests or travel logs mentioning these distant lands. These geographical references ground Blackreef within a larger, established world.
Whale Oil Aesthetic: The industrial design and technological advancements in Deathloop, particularly the early prototypes and machinery, bear a striking resemblance to the whale oil-powered technology of Dishonored. Pay close attention to the mechanisms in The Complex, particularly in Wenjie's lab, where the intricate gears and steam-punk elements echo the aesthetics of Dunwall.
Character Archetypes: Certain character archetypes or personality traits among the Visionaries might subtly mirror characters from Dishonored. For example, the eccentric inventor Egor Serling, with his focus on scientific breakthroughs at any cost, shares a thematic kinship with characters like Anton Sokolov.

Specific In-Game Examples

Beyond the broader thematic connections, Deathloop features several concrete, easily identifiable Easter eggs that directly reference Arkane's other titles.

The "Dishonored" Bottle: This is one of the most direct and charming references. In Updaam, during the Afternoon, inside Aleksis Dorsey's mansion (specifically in his private bar area, often accessible after dealing with his party), you can find a distinctive bottle labeled "Dishonored." It's a clear nod to the series and a fun item for fans to spot.
"Prey" References in Wenjie's Lab: Dr. Wenjie Evans, being the scientific mastermind, has a lab filled with various experiments and discarded prototypes. In The Complex, during any time of day, explore the various sections of her lab. You might find schematics or discarded equipment that bear a resemblance to the technology from Prey, such as early designs for neuromods or other exotic materials. Look for notes on "exotic matter" or "psionic energy" that directly echo the themes of Prey.
Morgan Yu's Name: A very subtle but impactful reference to Prey can be found in a note or data log. While its exact location can vary or be somewhat randomized, players have reported finding mentions of "Morgan" or "Yu" in scientific reports or personal logs, particularly within The Complex or Fristad Rock. These are often tucked away in less-frequented terminals or hidden rooms.
The "Golden Cat" Mention: In Updaam, during the Evening, while exploring Aleksis Dorsey's mansion, you might overhear snippets of conversation or find notes that reference a "Golden Cat" establishment. This is a direct callback to the infamous brothel and mission location from the first Dishonored game. It's a delightful detail that suggests a shared cultural touchstone.
Environmental Storytelling - The Void: While not a direct reference to a specific game, the concept of the "Void" or a similar ethereal dimension is a recurring theme in Arkane's games (e.g., The Void in Dishonored, the Typhon's psychic abilities in Prey). The anomalous nature of Blackreef and the powers granted by the loop can be seen as an extension of this fascination with otherworldly forces.

Where to Find Them (General Tips)

Easter eggs in Deathloop are rarely handed to you. They require a keen eye and a willingness to explore every nook and cranny of Blackreef. Here are some general tips for uncovering these hidden gems:

Read Everything: Notes, data logs, whiteboards, and even graffiti often contain the most direct references. Take your time to read all collectible lore.
Explore Off the Beaten Path: Many Easter eggs are tucked away in hidden rooms, behind locked doors, or in areas that aren't directly part of the main objective.
Listen to Conversations: Overheard dialogue from Eternalists or Visionaries can sometimes contain subtle nods or direct mentions of other Arkane titles.
Examine Environmental Details: Look closely at posters, books, discarded items, and architectural elements. Arkane's level design is incredibly dense with detail.
Revisit Areas at Different Times: The state of Blackreef changes with the time of day. An Easter egg might only be present or accessible during a specific period (Morning, Noon, Afternoon, Evening).

By actively searching for these references, players not only uncover delightful secrets but also gain a deeper appreciation for Arkane Studios' consistent vision and masterful world-building across their celebrated portfolio.