Little Nightmares 3 is Out: Should You Buy This New Journey Into Horror?
The wait is finally over. Today, Little Nightmares 3 has launched, pulling us into a brand-new, dark adventure. But the game is different from its predecessors, as this time the focus is on co-op gameplay with the two new heroes, Low and Alone.
But is new co-op gameplay enough to reinvent the franchise’s winning formula? Today, we’re looking at whether the game succeeds in setting itself apart and what it’s like at launch — all spoiler-free.
A familiar universe, the same sense of dread
Even though the franchise aimed to reinvent itself with Little Nightmares 3, we’re still in the same universe — and it shows. The macabre aesthetics, oppressive atmosphere, and constant feeling of helplessness remain. However, that feeling is slightly reduced now that you can face it together with a friend.
The game was developed by a new studio, namely Supermassive Games, known for Until Dawn and their strong horror expertise. Yet they’ve stayed true to the series’ style, both visually and sonically.
The big change: Survive together – or not
The game features two protagonists: Low with a wrench and Alone with a bow and arrow. There are plenty of puzzles to solve, and communication is key. With the bow, Low can cut ropes or trigger distant switches. Alone can open doors, operate mechanisms, or clear blockades with the wrench. Best of all, a second player can join for free via the Friends Pass. However, there’s no local co-op — online play is the only option.
You don’t need another player to experience the game, though. There’s also a solo mode, though you’ll still need both characters’ abilities. In solo mode, you can call on your AI partner at the press of a button to help you. The AI will then use their abilities, such as removing obstacles, to assist you.
First reviews & community impressions
The story and atmosphere have been praised by almost everyone, as well as the graphics and audio, which easily live up to the previous games. However, the puzzle design is seen as rather weak. The game feels highly immersive, with no loading screens or HUD elements to break the experience — and that’s also true in solo mode with the AI companion. The AI is mostly reliable, but sometimes quite slow, particularly during hectic moments. Precision and controls are also occasional points of criticism.
The sense of danger from terrifying creatures is well conveyed throughout the game. There are many new monsters that will hunt you if you draw attention to yourself. You’ll also encounter several boss fights, where cooperation with the AI or your co-op partner is essential.
Conclusion: Should you dive into the nightmare realm?
Little Nightmares 3 dares to take a new direction without losing sight of its roots. The oppressive atmosphere, haunting sound design, and disturbing aesthetics remain the series’ core — now with a fresh co-op dynamic that adds a new layer to the experience. The collaboration between Low and Alone introduces engaging puzzle mechanics, even if their design doesn’t always hit the mark.
Whether playing solo with AI or online with a friend, the dark world remains intense, the new enemies deliver menacing tension, and the seamless presentation without loading screens enhances immersion. Minor shortcomings in controls and AI barely tarnish the overall experience. Little Nightmares 3 isn’t a complete reinvention, but it’s a successful evolution that will delight co-op fans and series veterans alike.
Hey, I’m Kilian, but online you’ll probably know me as “Tux1243.” I've been part of the team for almost two years now, always trying to keep you in the loop with the latest and coolest gaming news. I also have a huge passion for doing deep dives and detailed analyses of entire game series and franchises. I love getting to the bottom of things and exploring the little details and backstories that make game worlds so fascinating.
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