If a cozy, card-slinging adventure that replaces swords with soap sounds intriguing, Nif Nif is your perfect digital getaway. Created by Springfox Games, this delightful roguelike deckbuilder puts you in the role of an adorable piglet on a quest to purify a forest plagued by a mysterious goo. The game combines strategic gameplay with a heartwarming, wholesome atmosphere.
Right from the start, Nif Nif invites you into its world with a soothing pastel palette and charming chalk-like art style. It’s an experience as calming as a spa day. The gameplay is simple yet engaging: you build a deck filled with cleaning-themed cards to clear corrupted creatures in the forest. Every attempt offers different paths, letting you choose between battles, shops, or restful campfires, which adds a strategic twist to your mission.
Before you start drawing parallels to giants like Slay the Spire, let’s be clear—while these games might share a genre, they radiate distinctly different vibes. Slay the Spire reigns as the complex and challenging king of deckbuilders. In contrast, Nif Nif is like the gentle princess content with tidying up without causing any chaos. Where Slay the Spire keeps you on edge with every card draw, Nif Nif fosters a relaxed and positive experience. It’s more about optimizing your cleaning strategy than intense survival tactics. You’re likely to complete a run in Nif Nif, unlike the formidable challenge of Slay the Spire.
A standout feature of Nif Nif is its accessibility. Designed thoughtfully for neurodivergent players, it includes features like muted default audio and clear transition screens to minimize sensory overload. It serves as an excellent introduction to the deckbuilding genre, perfect for newcomers or those craving a low-stress gaming session.
However, gamers who are seasoned deckbuilder veterans might find Nif Nif lacking in depth. You can wrap up a run in around 10 minutes, and the difficulty doesn’t ramp up significantly, which might make it feel repetitive after several rounds. There are unlockable features, including new cards and cute hats that provide gameplay bonuses, but the core mechanics largely stay the same.
The game’s charm lies in its straightforwardness. It’s not out to transform the genre but to provide a comforting, bite-sized experience. Adding a second playable character—an irritable cat with its own unique deck—adds some variety, though the main gameplay loop remains consistent.
If you’re on the hunt for a challenging and deep deckbuilding adventure, Nif Nif might come across as more of a light snack than a full course meal. However, for those desiring a relaxing, family-friendly game featuring lovable characters and a positive message, it’s an utterly delightful pick.
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 offers a cozy, beginner-friendly deckbuilding experience with charming visuals and a warm, wholesome vibe. Its short, soothing runs and thoughtful design make it ideal for those looking for an easygoing escape. With endearing characters and gentle gameplay, it serves as a sweet and calming introduction to the genre.
