Little Bug is a running and jumping game where you move through a surreal, abstract world by swinging on ropes. Unlike similar games, you control both character movement and the position of a helper spirit that can shoot and levitate you. This unusual gameplay is complemented by a poignant story of a girl and her struggling single mother, where you help the child navigate various trials in an attempt to restore their fractured relationship. It's a tale of trauma and forgiveness, healing and relationships.

You play Nyah, an 8 year old black girl who is walking home from her school when she finds herself in a mystical world where dangerous souls lurk. You piece together Nyah's backstory and learn of her struggling mother and their broken relationship as you swing through lush environments and listen to the powerful soundtrack.

You control the movement of both Nyah and her spirit, which lets out beams of light like ropes which you can use to swing your body from one platform to the next, as well as destroy barriers that block your progress. As you go, you collect items which can help piece together your backstory and unlock extra levels.

As the game progresses, what starts out as a simple jumping game soon becomes much more; you must learn to trust the ropes that carry you, allowing you to start healing your trauma and restore the love between girl and mother.