I think the peaceful vs chaotic option in Dishonored can make sinking into it a little less straightforward than the others, kind of like Deus Ex – except Deus Ex is a more complete espionage experience than Dishonored, where non-violence is sort of just a roleplay choice.

I say go high chaos, even if it feels like the game de-incentivizes it, and just enjoy it as a shooter experience. If you decide you want to do a sneak playthrough afterwards, you still can.