Little Nightmares 3 introduces online co-op to the series for the first time, allowing players to navigate the eerie world of The Nowhere together as two main characters, Low and Alone. At PAX West, I had the chance to play through the Candy Factory, a later level in the game that showcased the cooperative puzzle-solving and the unique abilities of each character.
For those new to the series, each Little Nightmares game is a standalone experience, making the third installment a suitable entry point. However, longtime fans will appreciate the Easter eggs and subtle references scattered throughout the game’s haunting environments.
The introduction of online co-op is a major highlight of Little Nightmares 3. Players are encouraged to team up with a friend, and the game offers a friend’s pass that allows you to play together even if only one of you owns a copy. It’s worth noting that while online co-op is a core feature, local co-op is not available. Alternatively, you can play solo, with an AI companion filling in for the other character, and the experience is just as compelling.
Low and Alone complement each other perfectly as they traverse the nightmarish world. Low wields a bow, while Alone carries a wrench, and both tools are essential for solving puzzles and fending off enemies. The game maintains the atmospheric horror that the series is known for, with unsettling environments and grotesque creatures lurking around every corner.
During my time in the Candy Factory, I encountered one of the game’s chilling antagonists, The Supervisor—a mechanical woman with spider-like arms. My objective was to avoid her detection while navigating the factory, using crouch, sneak, and sprint mechanics to hide and time my movements carefully.
The puzzles in Little Nightmares 3 often require patience and experimentation, with multiple possible solutions. I found myself pushing crates to reach higher ledges, opening grates with my companion, and carrying light bulbs to bypass certain hazards. Each puzzle offered a satisfying “aha!” moment when I finally figured it out.
Visually, Little Nightmares 3 captures the feeling of being a tiny figure in a vast, dangerous world. The scale of the environments, combined with the detailed backdrops, keeps you on edge, while the eerie musical score heightens the tension. I’m eager to see how the game continues to build on these elements in the final release.
Little Nightmares 3 is set to release in 2025 on PC, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, and Nintendo Switch, and it’s shaping up to be a thrilling addition to the series.
