Little Nightmares

Developer: Tarsier Studios
Release: Apr 27th 2017
Platforms:
Adventure
Atmospheric
Creative
Immersive
Short
Control Issues
Little Nightmares Poster

" Atmospheric adventure with exceptional visual storytelling but clunky controls and short length "

Little Nightmares Review

Little Nightmares is widely praised as an atmospheric and visually stunning horror puzzle-platformer that delivers a unique experience without relying on dialogue or cheap jump scares. Players appreciate its dark, dystopian world filled with eerie creatures and haunting environments. The game excels in visual storytelling and ambient sound design, creating a tense and immersive experience that resonates emotionally.

While the gameplay is generally simple and accessible, some players find the controls and camera mechanics occasionally frustrating, especially on keyboard and mouse. The game’s length is often described as short but complete, leaving many wanting more. Despite minor technical issues and occasional bugs, the overall reception is highly positive, with players recommending it especially when on sale. The DLC adds valuable content and expands the story, further enriching the experience. Fans eagerly anticipate future installments in the series.

Highlights

Players particularly praise the game's exceptional visual storytelling, creepy yet beautiful art style, and immersive dark atmosphere.

The gameplay mechanics, combining stealth, puzzles, and platforming, are well-received for their simplicity and challenge balance. The haunting soundtrack and sound design significantly enhance the mood, making the horror feel psychological and suspenseful rather than reliant on jump scares.

The storyline, though minimalistic and open to interpretation, intrigues players with its depth and lore, encouraging theorizing and engagement beyond the gameplay.

Criticisms

Some players report issues with the game's controls and camera, especially on PC using keyboard and mouse, which can lead to frustrating moments and accidental deaths.

The game’s short duration leaves some players wishing for a longer experience, feeling it ends too quickly.

Minor bugs and wonky hitboxes occasionally disrupt gameplay. Additionally, the lack of explicit story exposition and cliffhanger ending leave some players unsatisfied or confused.

Price is considered reasonable mainly when on sale, as the base game’s length may not justify full price for all players.

Pros

  • Exceptional visual storytelling with no dialogue needed.
  • Atmospheric and haunting dark dystopian world.
  • Unique and creepy art style that stands out.
  • Engaging blend of stealth, puzzles, and platforming.
  • Immersive soundtrack that enhances tension greatly.
  • Chilling horror without relying on cheap jump scares.
  • DLC adds meaningful content and story expansion.

Cons

  • Controls and camera can feel clunky on keyboard/mouse.
  • Game length is short, leaving some wanting more.
  • Occasional bugs and wonky hitboxes affect gameplay.
  • Story can feel incomplete or confusing without exposition.
  • Some checkpoints cause frustration due to progress loss.
  • Price may not justify length at full retail cost.
  • Certain puzzle sections may be too simple or repetitive.

Rating Criteria

Story
Difficulty
Graphics
Duration
Stability
Worth the Price
Capsule image

Take on the role of Six, a lone child lost in a massive metal vessel known as the Maw, surrounded by dangerous, distorted versions of adults. You’ll need to do your best to escape in one piece or your fate will be worse than you ever dared dream.

Release Date Apr 27th 2017
Publisher BANDAI NAMCO Entertainment
Developer Tarsier Studios
Platforms

User Reviews

Very Positive (18,019)
95% Positive 5% Negative

Online Reviews

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Metacritic
81