Little Nightmares is a horror, adventure, and puzzle-platformer game developed by Tarsier Studios and published by Bandai Namco Entertainment. Released in 2017, the game is known for its creepy atmosphere, unique art style, and disturbing narrative.
The game takes place in a dark and disturbing world resembling a haunted dollhouse. Players control Six, a young girl in a yellow coat, as she navigates a series of nightmarish environments, each filled with strange and monstrous enemies. The environments are intricately detailed with an emphasis on creating a sense of horror and suspense, and lighting, sound design, and perspective are often used to enhance the atmosphere of horror.
The game combines elements of platforming, puzzle-solving, and stealth mechanics. Players must guide Six through various rooms and scenarios, avoiding traps, solving environmental puzzles, and outwitting larger and more powerful enemies. The gameplay is often tense, requiring careful observation and timing to safely progress through each level.
The game is told through environmental narration and simple dialogue, inviting players to interpret events and themes for themselves. The game explores themes of fear, isolation, and the vulnerability of children in a hostile world. As players progress, they discover more about Six's origins and the disturbing reality of the world she lives in.
One of the game's standout features is its unique visual style, which features eerie, surreal imagery. Environments are intricately designed to evoke a sense of eerie beauty, with detailed textures and disturbing creature designs. The use of lighting and shadows adds depth to the atmosphere, creating an immersive experience throughout the game.
