The eerie, atmospheric world of Little Nightmares is preparing to welcome players back—just not as soon as originally expected. Little Nightmares III, the next installment in the beloved puzzle-platformer horror series, is now officially set for release sometime in 2025. Initially slated for a 2024 launch, the game was delayed to ensure it meets the series’ high standards of quality and immersion.
Little Nightmares III Set for 2025 Release: What We Know So Far
A New Vision with Familiar Terrors
This time around, the game is being developed not by original creators Tarsier Studios but by Supermassive Games, the studio behind acclaimed narrative horror titles like Until Dawn and The Dark Pictures Anthology. Bandai Namco remains on board as publisher, ensuring continuity with previous entries in tone and presentation. Supermassive’s expertise in branching narratives and chilling tension makes them a natural fit to carry forward the franchise.
Set in the distorted universe of the Nowhere, Little Nightmares III introduces two new protagonists: Low and Alone. These two children, trapped in a surreal nightmare landscape, must work together to survive—and possibly escape—the malevolent world that hunts them.
Online Co-Op and Fresh Gameplay Mechanics
In a major first for the series, Little Nightmares III will feature online co-op, allowing players to experience the story together in real-time. For solo players, the game will offer an AI companion system to control the second character, preserving the integrity of puzzles that require collaboration.
Each protagonist also brings unique gameplay mechanics:
- Low carries a bow, useful for ranged interactions and possibly for puzzle elements requiring precision.
- Alone wields a wrench, enabling more physical, mechanical puzzle-solving.
These tools give the characters distinctive roles in navigating the environment and solving increasingly complex challenges.
Expanded Environments and Narrative Depth
The environments in Little Nightmares III are shaping up to be the most varied and imaginative in the series to date. Confirmed locations include:
- Necropolis – a bleak desert city haunted by spectral presences,
- The Monster Baby’s Toy Workshop – an uncanny mix of whimsy and horror,
- A Grotesque Funfair – complete with twisted attractions and lurking dangers.
Supermassive has emphasized that the game will continue to explore psychological horror, with themes rooted in childhood fears and surreal dreams. While the story remains largely under wraps, the developers have hinted at a deeper dive into the mythos of the Nowhere and its disturbing inhabitants.
Platforms and Pre-Order Details
Little Nightmares III will be available on:
- PlayStation 5
- PlayStation 4
- Xbox Series X|S
- Xbox One
- Nintendo Switch
- PC via Steam and Epic Games Store
Pre-orders are already live through select retailers for physical editions, while digital storefronts like Steam allow players to wishlist the title for future updates.
Why the Delay Matters
The delay from 2024 to 2025 may disappoint fans, but it’s worth noting that both Supermassive and Bandai Namco have been vocal about prioritizing quality over speed. Given the challenges of modern game development—including high player expectations, the shift to hybrid work environments, and pressure to avoid broken day-one releases—this delay may ultimately benefit both the experience and the reception.
What’s Next
More details about Little Nightmares III are expected during Summer Game Fest 2025 and other major gaming events. A new trailer, gameplay footage, or even a playable demo could be on the horizon, giving fans a closer look at the disturbing world that awaits them.
Until then, the best way to stay informed is to wishlist the game on your platform of choice and follow official Bandai Namco and Supermassive Games channels for updates.
Whether you play alone or with a friend, Little Nightmares III is poised to be one of the most haunting and ambitious entries in the series yet.
Key Takeaways
- Little Nightmares 3 was delayed in 2024 and will now release in 2025
- Players can experience the game alone or with a friend through co-op gameplay.
- The new installment will continue the franchise’s tradition of atmospheric horror while introducing new features.
Release Information
Little Nightmares III was originally planned for a 2024 release but it was delayed to 2025 because the game wasn’t finalized yet. The delay announcement came amid a challenging year for the gaming industry.
Official Announcements
Little Nightmares III was first unveiled at Gamescom’s Opening Night Live in August 2023. During the event, Bandai Namco initially announced a 2024 release window for the atmospheric adventure game. However, as development continued, the publisher officially revised the launch timeline.
The game’s Steam page and official website now both list the planned release date as simply “2025” with no specific month or quarter mentioned. This delay follows a trend in the gaming industry where developers are taking extra time to polish their products rather than rushing to meet earlier deadlines.
Bandai Namco hasn’t shared detailed reasons for the delay, but their marketing materials suggest they’re focused on delivering a quality experience for fans of the series.
Platforms and Availability
Little Nightmares III will be available across multiple gaming platforms. The game is confirmed for PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, Nintendo Switch, and PC via Steam.
Players can already add the game to their wishlist on Steam to receive notifications when it becomes available for purchase. This feature allows fans to stay updated on any release date announcements or pre-order opportunities.
Unlike previous entries in the series, Little Nightmares III will include online functionality. The game will support both single-player and online cooperative play, allowing friends to experience the atmospheric horror adventure together.
This marks a significant evolution for the franchise, which previously focused exclusively on solo gameplay experiences.
Game Features and Experience
Little Nightmares III brings several new gameplay elements while maintaining the creepy atmosphere fans love. The game expands on its predecessors with co-op functionality and improved environmental storytelling.
Gameplay Overview
Little Nightmares III continues the series’ side-scrolling adventure format with horror elements. Players will navigate through disturbing places like the Necropolis, Fun Fair, and Gloomy Factory while solving intricate puzzles and avoiding dangers.
The game introduces new protagonists, Low and Alone, who must work together to escape the nightmarish world called The Nowhere. Players will face childhood fears in physical form, including a Giant Baby and Ominous Beetles that pursue them through various dystopian lands.
Gameplay mechanics focus on stealth, timing, and creative problem-solving. Unlike many horror games, players have limited ways to defend themselves, making encounters with enemies more intense and frightening.
Co-Op Mechanics and AI Companion
For the first time in the series, Little Nightmares III features online co-op gameplay. Two players can experience the terrifying adventure together, collaborating to overcome obstacles that would be impossible alone.
When playing solo, one character becomes an AI companion controlled by the game. Supermassive Games has worked to ensure the AI behaves intelligently, helping rather than hindering progress. Players can switch between characters at specific points to utilize their unique abilities.
The co-op mechanics introduce puzzle designs that require coordination. One player might distract an enemy while the other sneaks past, or both might need to activate mechanisms simultaneously to progress.
Artistic and Environmental Design
The visual design maintains the series’ signature distorted proportions and unsettling aesthetics. Environments feel massive compared to the tiny protagonists, creating a constant sense of vulnerability.
The Nowhere serves as the main setting, a realm constructed from collective delusions and fears. Each area features distinct visual themes while maintaining a cohesive artistic style. The lighting plays a crucial role, with shadows often hiding dangers or hinting at solutions.
Sound design complements the visuals with minimal UI elements interrupting the experience. Environmental storytelling takes precedence, with objects and scenes revealing the narrative without explicit explanation.
Bandai Namco and Supermassive Games have enhanced the already impressive visual fidelity while preserving the eerie atmosphere that made previous entries so memorable.
Frequently Asked Questions
Little Nightmares 3 has generated many questions from eager fans. Here are answers to the most common questions about the upcoming game based on current information.
What is the expected release date for Little Nightmares 3 on various platforms?
Little Nightmares 3 is now scheduled for release in 2025. Bandai Namco recently announced a delay from its original 2024 launch window.
No specific month or quarter within 2025 has been revealed yet. The game is expected to launch simultaneously across all announced platforms.
When can players begin to pre-order Little Nightmares 3?
Pre-order information for Little Nightmares 3 has not been officially announced yet.
Given the 2025 release timeframe, pre-orders will likely become available closer to when Bandai Namco reveals the specific release date. Fans should monitor the official Bandai Namco website for updates.
Which characters can we anticipate seeing in the upcoming Little Nightmares 3?
Little Nightmares 3 will introduce new protagonists named Low and Alone. These characters will navigate the nightmarish world together.
The game focuses on cooperative play, with these two new characters working as a team. Players can expect to encounter new monsters and possibly see references to characters from previous games in the series.
What is the reason for the delay in the launch of Little Nightmares 3?
Bandai Namco did not provide specific details for the delay to 2025. However, the publisher likely needs additional development time to ensure quality.
The announcement came amid a challenging year for the gaming industry with many titles facing delays. The additional time will allow developer Supermassive Games to polish the final product.
Has the official trailer for Little Nightmares 3 been released?
Yes, an official trailer for Little Nightmares 3 has been released. Additionally, Bandai Namco has shared about 18 minutes of gameplay footage.
This material showcases the game’s atmosphere, new characters, and cooperative gameplay elements. Fans can find these videos on the official Bandai Namco channels.
What price range are we looking at for Little Nightmares 3 upon release?
The official price for Little Nightmares 3 has not been announced yet. Based on previous games in the series, it will likely fall in the $30-$40 range.
Different editions with additional content may be offered at higher price points. The final pricing structure will likely be revealed closer to the game’s 2025 release date.
