If you’re in the mood for a cozy card-slinging adventure that trades swords for suds, then you’ll want to dive into Nif Nif. Created by Springfox Games, this delightful roguelike deckbuilder features an endearing piglet determined to clean up a forest mired in mysterious goo. It cleverly combines strategic gameplay with a heartwarming, wholesome atmosphere.
Right from the start, Nif Nif charms players with its soft pastel palette and gentle, chalk-like visuals, crafting a tranquil vibe akin to a spa day. The gameplay is simple yet engaging: assemble a deck of cleaning-themed cards to scrub away the grime corrupting forest creatures. Each playthrough offers different paths, letting you choose between battles, shops, or peaceful campfires, adding a strategic twist to your cleansing quest.
But before you rush to compare Nif Nif to the giants like Slay the Spire, let’s set the record straight—though they share a genre, their vibes are worlds apart. Slay the Spire stands as the complex, challenging king of deckbuilders, offering intense replayability. By contrast, Nif Nif feels more like a sweet, non-confrontational princess focused on tidying up rather than creating chaos. Where Slay the Spire thrives on tension with every card drawn, Nif Nif emphasizes gentle encouragement and relaxed gameplay. It’s not about maxing out survival tactics; it’s about perfecting your cleaning skills. Plus, there’s an 80% likelihood you’ll finish your run in Nif Nif compared to a mere 20% chance in Slay the Spire.
One of Nif Nif’s standout qualities is its accessibility. Mindfully designed with neurodivergent players in mind, it offers features like muted default audio and clear transitions to minimize sensory overload. As a gentle introduction to deckbuilding, it’s ideal for newcomers or anyone seeking a low-pressure gaming experience.
Nevertheless, seasoned deckbuilder fans might find Nif Nif lacking in complexity. Each run can be wrapped up in just ten minutes, and the difficulty level doesn’t escalate dramatically, which might lead to a feeling of repetitiveness after a few sessions. While you can unlock goodies like new cards and cute hats offering gameplay boosts, the core mechanics largely stay the same.
What truly shines in Nif Nif is its simplicity. It’s not here to revolutionize the genre but to offer a comforting, bite-sized experience. The introduction of a second character—a grumpy cat with a distinct deck—adds a bit of variety, though the overall gameplay loop remains consistent.
For players seeking a challenging, in-depth deckbuilding experience, Nif Nif might feel more like a light snack than a substantial meal. However, for those in search of a relaxing, family-friendly game with lovable characters and a positive message, it’s a delightful option.
This review is based on a retail copy of the game provided by the publisher.
Nif Nif Review
Tone & Atmosphere: 9/10
Gameplay Simplicity: 9/10
Strategic Depth: 6/10
Replayability: 8/10
Overall: 8/10
Summary:
Nif Nif is a cozy, beginner-friendly deckbuilder with enchanting visuals and wholesome vibes. Its short, soothing sessions and accessible design make it perfect for players looking for a low-stress experience. With charming characters and gentle gameplay, it’s a sweet and comforting introduction to the genre.
