Little Nightmares 3 received mixed reviews overall. It was praised for its immersive atmosphere, visual and audio design, and capturing the signature creepy mood of the series. However, many critics found it lacking in innovation, with frustrating controls, repetitive puzzles, and pacing issues. The addition of co-op play was notable but did not significantly enhance the experience. The game has uneven quality, with a stronger mid-to-late game and some well-realized set pieces, but it fell short of the high expectations set by its predecessors.
Positive Aspects
- Immersive and disturbing nightmare atmosphere with excellent sound design, recommended to play with headphones for full effect.
- Visually impressive with intricate and grotesque environments.
- Strong narrative heart; emotionally resonant and cinematic storytelling.
- Co-op play introduces new dynamics for the first time in the series.
- Final chapters exhibit more creative gameplay and cinematic flair.
Criticisms
- Woolly, frustrating controls and platforming due to perspective and camera issues.
- Puzzle sections often repetitive and lacking environmental or narrative relevance.
- Limited scares compared to earlier entries; some chase sequences feel overused.
- Co-op gameplay sometimes seen as a hindrance rather than an improvement.
- The game feels safe and too familiar without enough new ideas.
- Online co-op only; no local couch co-op support.
- Some sections felt like long quick-time events with trial-and-error gameplay.
Conclusion
While Little Nightmares 3 successfully maintains the unsettling atmosphere and creepy design the series is known for, it struggles with gameplay frustrations and a lack of fresh ideas. It is worth experiencing for fans of the series, especially for its story and ambiance, but it may leave some players wanting more innovation and smoother mechanics.
