Little Nightmares III Review — Tiny Heroes, Big Nightmares in a Dream-Twisted Co-Op

Little Nightmares III is a horror puzzle adventure that takes players into a strange, unsettling world. In this game, you follow the journey of Low and Alone trapped in the Spiral, a dreamlike but dangerous realm, as they try to survive and escape creeping threats hiding in the shadows. This is the first in the series where players can tackle fears of childhood with a friend in online co-op, or go solo with an AI companion when playing alone.

Even though the game doesn’t use much spoken dialogue, seeing menu items and character names in the local language adds warmth and clarity. It’s a small touch that helps players feel more at home navigating the systems without second-guessing anything.

The graphics punch far above what you might expect from a horror puzzle game that isn’t AAA. Environments are filled with careful detail; even small pass-through rooms are richly crafted so the developer doesn’t settle for emptiness. Though much of the gameplay is side-scrolling two-dimensional platforming, the sense of depth is layered in beautifully. Character designs keep the haunting tone of the series, and performance is smooth with no distracting stutters to break immersion.

What really defines Little Nightmares III is the sense of scale being small among giant, imposing creatures and architecture creates unique tension. You’ll hide under tables, squeeze through small gaps, or stay silent as shadows loom overhead. These moments of vulnerability become powerful, especially paired with the camera that reinforces how little you are in such a massive, hostile dream world.

Puzzles are clever and satisfying. Many rooms are compact, letting you solve challenges without too much backtracking, but you’ll still need sharp observation to spot subtle cues in dim lighting. Occasionally you’ll struggle if something is hiding or if an environmental clue is nearly missed, but solving each puzzle feels rewarding.

Co-op shines bright in this installment. Working with another player feels meaningful, with both characters (player or AI) contributing via tools like wrenches, rope hooks, pushing objects, or using environmental elements to cooperate. Even when playing solo, the AI companion fills in gaps sometimes guiding you toward puzzles, helping with physics-based tasks, or solving parts you can’t reach. Online co-op adds shared tension, communication, and moments of surprise (and squeals) that give the game a social heart.

There are a few limitations. Cross-platform support is missing, which means you can’t always play with friends on different devices. Also, the lack of puzzle hints can cause frustration if you get stuck. But for many, that’s part of the charm a test of patience, perception, and creativity.

Little Nightmares III offers a terrifyingly beautiful experience that balances dread and delight. From atmosphere and design to co-op dynamics and puzzles, it is a memorable ride through nightmares. For those who dare, this is a must-play, especially in the SEA region where the localization enhances immersion. Rating: 9/10

Tiny steps, giant fears, Little Nightmares III creeps under your skin and stays there long after you turn off the game, and we’ll be whispering about it at This Is Game SEA.