Little Nightmares 3 introduces new co-op mechanics and controls that differ from previous games. This guide covers essential controls for bow aiming, character switching, and movement, plus 6 beginner tips to help you master both Low and Alone‘s abilities. Whether playing solo or co-op, understanding the control scheme is crucial for puzzle-solving and surviving chase sequences.
Key Takeaways
- Character choice (Low or Alone) is permanent in offline mode
- Controls require two-step inputs for climbing: jump + R1/RB to grab
- Bow aiming uses L2/LT to aim, R2/RT to fire
- Sprint is always available (Square/X) but disabled while holding weapons
- Chapter selection unlocks after completing each chapter for collectible hunting
- Controller is strongly recommended over keyboard/mouse
- Estimated time to complete: 6-8 hours for first playthrough
Table of contents
- Quick Start: Essential Controls
- Tip 1 – Pick the Right Character
- Tip 2 – Optimize Your Visual Settings
- Tip 3 – Replay Chapters for Collectibles
- Tip 4 – Rely on Your Companion
- Tip 5 – Master the Controls
- Tip 6 – Use Stealth When Possible
- Final Thoughts – AI vs Multiplayer
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Related Walkthroughs and Guides
Quick Start: Essential Controls
Basic Movement Controls
Sprint: Press Square/X to run faster. You can sprint from the very beginning of the game, which is essential during chase sequences and exploration.
Jump: Use X/A to jump across gaps and onto platforms.
Climb: Jump toward ledges and press R1/RB to grab and hang. This two-step input is crucial for navigating platforming sections.
Weapon Toggle: Press Circle/B to equip or unequip your weapon. Important: You cannot run, jump, or grab objects while holding your weapon.
How to Aim the Bow in Little Nightmares 3
Aiming Low‘s bow requires proper positioning. Hold L2/LT to aim, then use the right stick to adjust your target. Press R2/RT to fire arrows at buttons, switches, and enemies. Practice aiming in safe areas before attempting puzzle sequences.
The bow is essential for activating distant switches and solving environmental puzzles. Look for glowing buttons or mechanisms that require arrows to activate.
Character Switching & Selection
In offline solo mode, you cannot change characters after starting the game. Choose carefully at the beginning based on your preferred playstyle.
In online co-op mode, each player controls one character throughout the entire playthrough.
How to Switch Focus: Press Triangle/Y to call your companion AI when stuck or when they need to interact with specific objects.
Climbing and Grabbing Mechanics
The climbing system requires two inputs. First, jump toward the ledge you want to grab. Second, press R1/RB while in the air to make your character grab and hang.
To pull yourself up, press X/A again after grabbing. To drop down, press Circle/B.
Tip 1 – Pick the Right Character
Character Roles and Abilities
Character selection is permanent in offline mode. Low uses a bow for ranged attacks and puzzle-solving, while Alone wields a wrench for smashing obstacles and turning mechanisms. Both characters are essential for completing puzzles, but your choice determines which character you directly control.
This may not seem important, but choosing the right character in Little Nightmares 3 is actually crucial and one of the best tips I can give you. You need to choose the character that suits your playstyle. If you’re playing in the offline mode, then you won’t be able to change your character once you have selected one.
So, it is crucial that you select the right one. Low has a bow, and he shoots arrows, which come in quite handy. This gives him an edge in the combat, too. On the other hand, Alone uses a wrench that is used to smash things and turn mechanisms.
Why Low is the Better Choice
Both characters are pretty useful, but if you ask me, based on my playthroughs, Low is a better character, and I would recommend choosing him. He also seems to be the main lead, with Alone being a support character.
Tip 2 – Optimize Your Visual Settings
Improving Visibility for Platforming and Chases
Many players ask about optimal display settings for Little Nightmares 3. The game features numerous dark environments where visibility is crucial for spotting interactive objects, collectibles, and avoiding hazards.
Adjust brightness until you can clearly distinguish objects in shadowy areas, but avoid making it too bright as it reduces the atmospheric horror experience. The brightness setting affects your ability to spot buttons that need to be shot with Low’s bow, which is essential for progression.
Tip 3 – Replay Chapters for Collectibles
Finding Dolls and Using Chapter Select
Little Nightmares 3 features chapter selection accessible from the main menu after completing each chapter. This system shows total dolls per chapter versus collected dolls, making it easy to identify missed collectibles.
Chapter replay is essential for completionists aiming for 100% collectible completion. You must replay the game with the opposite character to unlock specific achievements, but this can be done quickly once you know the puzzle solutions.
Tip 4 – Rely on Your Companion
Using Low and Alone for Puzzle Cooperation
The AI companion in offline mode is surprisingly intelligent but requires your attention. Both Low and Alone must work together to solve every puzzle in the game.
Even if you are playing in the offline mode, you need to rely on your companion. Both characters play a crucial role in the game. No matter which character you are playing as, without the effort from both characters, you won’t be able to solve the puzzles.
Do note that if something needs to be smashed or a mechanism needs to be rotated, let Alone do her job.
If your companion isn’t interacting with an object, look for levers you need to pull or buttons you need to shoot. The AI will automatically handle tasks within their capability, but they wait for your input when puzzles require coordination.
Calling or Listening for AI Assistance
Press Triangle/Y to call your companion if they’re stuck or not following. Listen for audio cues indicating your companion needs assistance.
Tip 5 – Master the Controls
Sprinting, Jumping, and Weapon Management
Little Nightmares 3 controls feel unusual initially. Playing with a controller is strongly recommended over keyboard and mouse for the best experience.
Essential Control Tips:
- Square/X is sprint, not jump (common confusion for new players)
- Grabbing requires two inputs: jump + R1/RB
- You cannot perform actions while holding your weapon
- Camera control is crucial during platforming sequences
Combat vs Exploration:
- Keep weapons holstered during exploration for maximum mobility
- Only draw weapons when combat or puzzle-solving requires them
- Sprint is your best defense during chase sequences
Tip 6 – Use Stealth When Possible
Avoiding Bosses and Navigating Chase Sequences Safely
Stealth is mandatory in several sections, particularly in Chapter 2. Unlike action games, Little Nightmares 3 emphasizes avoidance over combat. You cannot defeat most enemies through direct confrontation.
Stealth Strategies:
- Move slowly near enemies to reduce detection
- Hide behind environmental objects when enemies patrol
- Watch enemy patterns before moving
- During chases, focus on running rather than combat
Chase Sequences: Run at full sprint during active chases. Look ahead for obstacles rather than behind at pursuers. The game provides clear paths during chase sequences, but debris and gaps require quick reactions.
Even in the first chapter, you need to be quite stealthy in some sections to prevent getting caught by the boss. As you can’t straight-up fight these abominations, you would need to be as stealthy around them as possible. However, when the boss is chasing you, run. Also, make sure to look for the obstacles in the way during chase sequences.
Final Thoughts – AI vs Multiplayer
Differences Between Playing Solo or with Friends
The game isn’t overly complicated, but if you are playing with your friend, then you may need to look for clues more often. That is because AI can usually start a task on its own, sometimes making it a little easier for you to solve the puzzles. If the AI is stationary, then it means your character needs to do something.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I aim the bow in Little Nightmares 3?
To aim Low‘s bow, hold L2/LT to enter aiming mode. Use the right analog stick to adjust your aim toward the target. Press R2/RT to fire the arrow. Aiming is essential for hitting distant buttons and switches that control doors and mechanisms throughout the game.`
Can I change characters in Little Nightmares 3?
No, you cannot change characters during a playthrough in offline solo mode. Your character choice at the start is permanent for that save file. If you want to play as the other character, you need to start a new game. In online co-op mode, each player controls one specific character throughout the entire game.
How do I switch between Low and Alone?
You don’t directly switch between Low and Alone during gameplay. In solo mode, you control one character while the AI controls the other. Press Triangle/Y to call your AI companion and direct their attention when needed for puzzles. In co-op mode, each player maintains control of their assigned character.
Do I need a controller for Little Nightmares 3?
While Little Nightmares 3 supports keyboard and mouse controls, a controller is highly recommended. The platforming mechanics, precise jumping, and grab timing work better with analog stick control. The game’s control scheme was designed primarily for gamepad input.
How do I replay chapters in Little Nightmares 3?
Access the main menu and select Chapter Select. This option becomes available after completing each chapter. The chapter select screen displays how many dolls you’ve collected versus the total available, making it easy to identify which chapters need revisiting for 100% completion.
What’s the best character to choose in Little Nightmares 3?
Low is generally recommended for most players. His bow provides advantages in combat and puzzle-solving that feel more versatile than Alone‘s wrench. However, both characters can complete the game successfully, and you’ll need to play as both for full achievement completion.
Related Walkthroughs and Guides
Below you can find some more walkthroughs and guides:
- Casebook 1899 Walkthrough Hub
- Agatha Christie: Death On The Nile – Walkthrough Hub
- Cozy Island Walkthrough And Guides Hub
- Witchy Business – Walkthrough & Guides Hub
- Little Witch In The Woods Walkthrough Hub
- Hollow Knight: Silksong Walkthrough and Guides
- Little Nightmares 3 – Walkthrough And Guides Hub
Obaid Ur Rehman is a lifelong gaming enthusiast with a deep passion for writing about video games. While he enjoys all genres, he specializes in RPGs and Soulslike titles. After tackling some of the toughest bosses, he often unwinds with a cozy game to relax. Outside of gaming, Obaid enjoys watching anime, bingeing TV series, or staying active at the gym.
