New developer Supermassive Games has taken over the Little Nightmares series with the release of Little Nightmares 3, set to launch on October 9, 2025. While the game retains many elements of its predecessors, it introduces a co-op mode that adds a fresh dynamic to the gameplay.
Upon revisiting the first two installments, the distinct creepiness of the original was reminiscent, especially with characters like the haunting Janitor and the unsettling chefs. In contrast, while the second game was enjoyable, it felt less terrifying without memorable villains. With Little Nightmares 3, the transition to Supermassive Games brings familiar aesthetics mixed with the need for more original horror elements.
The game continues the series’ tradition as a cinematic horror-platformer, allowing for solo play or cooperative gameplay. Immersion is high, with seamless transitions and no loading screens, delivering a nightmarish world rich in detail. The storytelling remains vague, enhancing the fear of the unknown—players navigate through eerie locations like rundown schools and dark libraries, where the environment itself becomes a constant source of tension.
The addition of co-op gameplay has its advantages, allowing players to partner up as they face various monstrous challenges. Characters Low and Alone each possess unique skills needed to overcome obstacles, but teamwork is essential to avoid frustrating setbacks in encounters, particularly during tense chase sequences. However, moments of player reliance can lead to increased anxiety, mimicking the feeling of exploring haunted spaces together.
Although Little Nightmares 3 features new mechanics and a faster tempo compared to earlier titles, the absence of memorable antagonists from the original game hampers its overall impact. The game’s more subdued horror elements might disappoint those expecting the series’ trademark unsettling visuals. The sounds and audio design are exceptional, warranting a headset for the full experience, with chilling echoes and creaks that heighten the fear factor.
Despite its accomplishments, Little Nightmares 3 doesn’t break new ground, often relying too much on the established formula. While it may please fans of the previous games, it struggles to reach the heights of the original’s innovation. The legacy of Little Nightmares is evident, with its eerie world and engaging gameplay, but it ultimately invites future installments to embrace bolder creations.
In conclusion, Little Nightmares 3 acts as a solid continuation of the franchise, skillfully balancing co-op gameplay with traditional horror elements. While it successfully captures the essence of its predecessors, the series could benefit from more originality to separate it from its past.
