The gameplay of Little Nightmares involves navigating through the ship's corridors and avoiding or distracting enemies. The player must use platforming skills and puzzle-solving abilities to progress through the levels. Six can interact with the environment by pushing buttons, pulling levers and handles, pushing and pulling items (often to stand on), and picking up items to throw them or drop them elsewhere.
The game also features optional challenges and collectibles, such as lamps to light up, statuettes that can be broken, and small creatures known as "Nomes" which can be hugged. Finding all of these grants the player achievements, adding an extra layer of depth to the gameplay.