If you’re in the mood for a cozy card-collecting adventure that trades swords for suds, then "Nif Nif" might just be the digital detox you’re looking for. Created by Springfox Games, this delightful roguelike deckbuilder features a lovable piglet on a quest to clean up a forest that’s been tainted by a strange goo. It blends strategic gameplay with a heartwarming touch, offering up a truly wholesome experience.
From the moment you start, "Nif Nif" captivates with its pastel colors and chalk-like art style, setting a tranquil atmosphere akin to a relaxing spa day. The gameplay is simple but engaging: you build a deck of cleaning-themed cards to cleanse corrupted forest creatures. Each run offers branching choices, allowing you to pick between battles, shops, or restful campfires, adding layers of strategy to your cleansing mission.
But before you start thinking about "Nif Nif" as another "Slay the Spire," let’s set things straight—these games may share a genre, but their vibes are miles apart. While "Slay the Spire" is the complex, challenging king of deckbuilders, "Nif Nif" feels like the endearing, non-confrontational princess that just wants to tidy up rather than create chaos. The tension in "Slay the Spire" is intense with every card draw, whereas "Nif Nif" leans into gentle encouragement and relaxation. It’s not about optimizing survival; it’s about perfecting your cleaning ability. Unlike the 20% success chance of beating "Slay the Spire" in a run, you’ll find an 80% chance of finishing your journey in "Nif Nif."
A standout feature of the game is its accessibility. Thoughtfully designed with neurodivergent players in mind, "Nif Nif" includes muted default audio and clear transition screens to minimize sensory overload. These touches make it a welcoming introduction to the deckbuilding genre, perfect for newcomers or those looking for a stress-free gaming experience.
That said, seasoned fans of deckbuilders might find "Nif Nif" lacking in complexity. Runs can be as brief as ten minutes, and the difficulty level remains relatively constant, which might lead to some repetition after several playthroughs. While you can unlock things like new cards and cute hats that provide bonuses, the core mechanics don’t change significantly.
The game’s simplicity is its charm. It isn’t trying to reinvent the genre but offers a comforting, bite-sized experience. The addition of a second playable character—a grouchy cat with its own deck—adds a bit of variety, though the overall gameplay loop is consistent.
For those seeking a deep, challenging deckbuilding game, "Nif Nif" might feel like a light snack rather than a full-course meal. However, for players who want a relaxing, family-friendly game with endearing 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.
Nif Nif
- 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 charming visuals and wholesome vibes. Its short, relaxing runs and accessible 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.
