Many players experience network or online multiplayer errors in Little Nightmares III on PC. These errors can prevent you from joining co-op sessions, connecting to servers, or enjoying the full multiplayer experience.
Such issues are usually caused by server outages, network instability, firewall restrictions, or incorrect game settings. In this guide, weโll go through step-by-step solutions to fix network errors and restore seamless multiplayer gameplay on Windows 10 and 11.
Common Causes of Network / Online Multiplayer Errors
Before attempting fixes, itโs important to understand what usually triggers these problems:
- Little Nightmares III servers temporarily offline
- Unstable or slow internet connection
- Firewall or antivirus blocking the game
- VPN or proxy conflicts
- Corrupted game files or session data
- NAT type restrictions on your router
- Outdated game client or Windows updates
๐ ๏ธ Fix 1: Check Game Server Status
Sometimes, the issue is not on your end.
Steps:
- Visit the official Little Nightmares III server status page.
- Look for any reported outages or maintenance alerts.
- If servers are down, wait until the developers fix the issue.
๐ก Tip: Follow official game social media channels for real-time server updates.
๐ ๏ธ Fix 2: Restart Your Router and PC
Temporary network glitches often cause multiplayer errors.
Steps:
- Power off your router/modem for 30 seconds.
- Turn it back on.
- Restart your PC.
- Launch the game and check the connection.
โ This refreshes your IP and clears temporary network cache.
๐ ๏ธ Fix 3: Use a Wired Ethernet Connection
Wi-Fi can be unstable and cause packet loss, resulting in connection errors.
Steps:
- Connect your PC directly to the router via an Ethernet cable.
- Disable Wi-Fi to avoid interference.
- Relaunch the game and try connecting to multiplayer.
๐ก Wired connections reduce latency and improve server stability.
๐ ๏ธ Fix 4: Disable VPN or Proxy
VPNs and proxies can interfere with multiplayer server communication.
Steps:
- Press Windows + I โ Network & Internet โ Proxy.
- Turn off both Automatically detect settings and Use a proxy server.
- Close any VPN software running on your PC.
- Relaunch the game.
โ Ensures a direct and stable connection to servers.
๐ ๏ธ Fix 5: Allow Game Through Firewall and Antivirus
Firewalls or antivirus programs may block online features.
Steps:
- Press Windows + R โ firewall.cpl โ Enter.
- Select Allow an app or feature through Windows Defender Firewall.
- Ensure Little Nightmares III and the game launcher are allowed on Private and Public networks.
- Temporarily disable third-party antivirus software and test connectivity.
๐ก If it works, add permanent exceptions for the game.
๐ ๏ธ Fix 6: Open Required Ports on Your Router
Multiplayer games often need specific ports open for proper connection.
Steps:
- Login to your router settings.
- Navigate to Port Forwarding.
- Open the ports recommended by the game developers.
- Restart the router and PC.
โ Correct port configuration can reduce NAT-related multiplayer issues.
๐ ๏ธ Fix 7: Verify Game Files
Corrupted or missing files can prevent multiplayer from working.
Steps (Steam example):
- Open Steam Library โ right-click Little Nightmares III โ Properties.
- Go to Installed Files โ Verify integrity of game files.
- Wait for the process to complete and restart the game.
โ Restores any corrupted or missing files affecting online gameplay.
๐ ๏ธ Fix 8: Update Game and Launcher
Older versions may fail to connect to servers.
Steps:
- Open the game launcher (Steam, Epic, etc.).
- Check for updates for Little Nightmares III.
- Install any pending updates.
- Relaunch the game.
โ Ensures compatibility with the latest online server protocols.
๐ ๏ธ Fix 9: Reset Network Settings
Resetting network configurations can fix connection problems.
Steps:
- Open Command Prompt (Admin).
- Run the following commands one by one:
ipconfig /release ipconfig /renew ipconfig /flushdns netsh int ip reset netsh winsock reset
- Restart your PC and try connecting again.
โ Refreshes your network stack and clears outdated configurations.
๐ ๏ธ Fix 10: Reinstall the Game (Last Resort)
If all else fails, a fresh installation may solve persistent multiplayer errors.
Steps:
- Uninstall Little Nightmares III.
- Delete leftover files from:
C:\Users\<YourName>\AppData\Local\LittleNightmares3
- Reinstall the game from the official source.
โ A clean installation removes corrupted files and restores online functionality.
Additional Tips
- Avoid playing during peak hours when servers are overloaded.
- Use Google DNS (8.8.8.8 / 8.8.4.4) for faster connections.
- Ensure your PC meets the recommended system requirements for online play.
- Keep Windows and network drivers updated.
FAQs
Q1: Why canโt I join multiplayer in Little Nightmares III?
A1: Usually due to server downtime, network instability, firewall blocks, or corrupted files.
Q2: Will switching to Ethernet improve connection?
A2: Yes, wired connections are more stable and reduce disconnects.
Q3: Can VPNs cause multiplayer errors?
A3: Yes, VPN traffic can interfere with server authentication.
Q4: Does verifying game files help?
A4: Absolutely, it replaces corrupted or missing files that prevent online play.
Conclusion
Network and online multiplayer errors in Little Nightmares III can stem from server issues, firewall restrictions, or corrupted files. By checking server status, using a wired connection, configuring firewall/ports, updating the game, and verifying files, you can restore smooth multiplayer gameplay.
๐ฎ Follow these steps and get back to exploring the eerie world of Little Nightmares III with friends without any connectivity interruptions!