If you’re on the hunt for a cozy card-slinging adventure that trades swords for soap, then "Nif Nif" might just be the digital escape you need. Crafted by Springfox Games, this delightful roguelike deckbuilder features an endearing piglet on a quest to cleanse a forest tainted by mysterious goo. It’s a game where strategic play meets heartwarming charm.
From the moment you dive in, "Nif Nif" enchants you with its pastel colors and charming, chalk-like art style, setting a serene scene akin to a relaxing spa day. The premise is simple: assemble a deck of cleaning-themed cards to clear the muck from corrupted woodland creatures. Each playthrough offers branching paths, letting you choose between battles, shops, or peaceful campfires, adding a strategic layer to your cleansing journey.
Before you start likening "Nif Nif" to the big names like "Slay the Spire," let’s clarify—they might share the same genre, but they’re on completely different wavelengths. "Slay the Spire" is a complex, challenging masterpiece known for its intense replayability. In contrast, "Nif Nif" is the charming, non-confrontational sibling who prefers tidying up over creating chaos. The stakes in "Slay the Spire" are high with every draw, while "Nif Nif" focuses on gentle encouragement and relaxed vibes. It’s more about optimizing your cleaning routine than min-maxing to survive. While there’s a chance you might not conquer "Slay the Spire" during your run, you’ll likely complete your journey in "Nif Nif" 80% of the time.
What stands out in "Nif Nif" is its accessibility. Mindfully designed with neurodivergent players in mind, it features muted default audio and clear transitions to minimize sensory overload. It’s an excellent introduction to the deckbuilding genre, perfect for newcomers or those seeking a less stressful gaming experience.
However, experienced deckbuilders might find "Nif Nif" lacking in depth. You can finish a run in about 10 minutes, and the difficulty doesn’t significantly increase, which might lead to a repetitive feel after several playthroughs. Though there are unlockables like new cards and adorable hats offering gameplay perks, the core mechanics stay fairly consistent.
The game’s allure is in its simplicity. It’s not trying to reinvent the deckbuilding wheel but rather offers a comforting, bite-sized experience. With the addition of a second playable character—a grumpy cat with a unique deck—there’s some variety, but the core gameplay remains unchanged.
For those expecting a challenging, deep deckbuilding adventure, "Nif Nif" might feel more like a light bite than a gourmet feast. But for players searching for a relaxing, family-friendly game with delightful characters and a positive message, it’s a delightful choice.
This review is based on a retail copy of the game provided by the publisher.
Review Summary
Nif Nif
- Tone & Atmosphere: 9/10
- Gameplay Simplicity: 9/10
- Strategic Depth: 6/10
- Replayability: 8/10
Overall: 8/10
"Nif Nif" is a cozy, beginner-friendly deckbuilder boasting charming visuals and a wholesome vibe. Its short, relaxing runs and thoughtful design make it perfect for players seeking a low-stress experience. With adorable characters and gentle gameplay, it’s a sweet and soothing introduction to the genre.