Little Nightmares III: A Beautifully Buggy Bedtime Story

When the monsters are more reliable than the controls

Launch Day Larry

Welcome to the world of Little Nightmares III, where the visuals are as stunning as a fireworks display, but the gameplay might leave you feeling like you’re stuck in a never-ending game of “Simon Says.” This latest installment in the series promises to expand the universe with new areas and mechanics, but does it deliver a nightmare worth having, or is it more of a sleepwalk through familiar territory? Let’s dive in.

Gameplay: A Clunky Dance with the Dark

Little Nightmares III attempts to lure players in with its atmospheric charm and intriguing story twists, but the gameplay experience is akin to trying to dance with two left feet. The controls, whether you’re wielding a controller or a trusty mouse and keyboard, seem to have a mind of their own. Players report issues ranging from malfunctioning jump buttons to characters randomly teleporting like they’re auditioning for a sci-fi flick. It’s a bit like trying to play hopscotch on a trampoline—fun in theory, but frustrating in practice.

The game introduces new mechanics, such as combat and the use of items like wrenches and arrows, but these feel as underutilized as a gym membership in January. The level design often leaves players feeling like they’re stuck in a “walking simulator,” with repetitive puzzles that lack the depth and engagement of previous entries. Meanwhile, co-op mode is plagued by bugs that make your AI ally about as helpful as a chocolate teapot, and the Friend Pass system limits the fun for non-host players.

Despite these hiccups, the game does manage to maintain a creepy vibe with its monster designs and art direction. The protagonists’ relationship adds a touch of charm, but it’s often overshadowed by the technical gremlins that haunt the gameplay.

Graphics: A Visual Feast with a Side of Glitches

If there’s one thing Little Nightmares III gets right, it’s the graphics. The game is a visual masterpiece, with smooth, vivid, and beautiful imagery that could make even the most jaded gamer stop and admire the view. The character and costume designs are particularly noteworthy, adding to the game’s eerie atmosphere and making it a feast for the eyes.

However, this visual splendor comes at a cost. Some players report high power consumption and brightness issues that make the game feel like it’s set in a perpetual eclipse. While most reviews praise the graphics, there are a few dissenting voices who found them lacking, suggesting that the game’s visual performance might vary depending on your setup. Choppy animations during gameplay can also detract from the overall experience, leaving players wishing for a smoother ride.

Story: A Tale of Two Characters and a Missing Antagonist

The narrative of Little Nightmares III is a mixed bag, with some players finding the relationship between the main characters, Alone and Low, emotionally engaging, while others feel it lacks the depth and complexity of previous games. The story attempts to expand the Little Nightmares universe, but it often feels like a puzzle missing a few key pieces.

The game relies heavily on an external audio series for backstory, which can leave players who are unfamiliar with it feeling lost. The absence of a main antagonist results in a narrative that lacks tension and fails to capture the same level of intrigue as its predecessors. While the seamless transition between cutscenes and gameplay is commendable, the story itself often feels predictable and lacking in depth.

Final Verdict

Little Nightmares III is a game that shines brightly in some areas while stumbling in others. Its graphics and atmosphere are undeniably impressive, creating a world that’s both beautiful and haunting. However, the gameplay is marred by clunky controls and technical issues that can turn a nightmarish adventure into a frustrating ordeal. The story, while having its moments, doesn’t quite live up to the legacy of the series, leaving players yearning for more depth and connection.

In the end, Little Nightmares III is a visually stunning experience that struggles to deliver on its gameplay and narrative potential. If you’re a fan of the series, it might be worth a look, but be prepared for a few bumps along the way.

Score: 5.5/10