If you’re in the mood for a cozy adventure that swaps swords for soap, Nif Nif might just be your go-to game. Created by Springfox Games, this delightful roguelike deckbuilder features an adorable piglet on a mission to clean a forest overrun by mysterious goo. It’s a charming fusion of strategic gameplay and wholesome vibes.
Right from the start, Nif Nif enchants players with its soothing pastel colors and chalk-like art style. The atmosphere is as relaxing as a spa day. The game focuses on building a deck of cleaning-themed cards to clear the muck from corrupted forest creatures. Each game session offers branching paths, letting players choose between battles, shops, or restful campfires, adding strategic depth to your cleaner’s journey.
Before you start drawing parallels between Nif Nif and popular titles like Slay the Spire, it’s worth noting that they play in different leagues. While Slay the Spire is a complex, challenging staple in the deckbuilder genre, Nif Nif is more of the gentle, non-confrontational counterpart. The tension in Slay the Spire keeps players on their toes, whereas Nif Nif focuses on positive reinforcement and tranquility. It’s less about survival and more about optimizing your cleaning efficiency. You might not always win in Slay the Spire, but in Nif Nif, you’ve got around an 80% chance of finishing your run.
One of the standout features of Nif Nif is its accessibility. Designed with neurodivergent players in mind, the game includes thoughtful elements such as muted default audio and clear transition screens to prevent sensory overload. It’s a gentle introduction to the deckbuilding genre, making it perfect for newcomers or those in search of a low-stress gaming experience.
However, seasoned deckbuilder fans might find Nif Nif lacking in depth. You can complete a run in about 10 minutes, and as previously mentioned, the difficulty doesn’t significantly increase, which might lead to a repetitive experience after several playthroughs. Despite unlockable items like new cards and hats with bonuses, the core mechanics stay largely unchanged.
The game’s charm lies in its simplicity. It doesn’t aim to revolutionize the genre but offers a soothing, bite-sized experience. Adding a second playable character, a grumpy cat with its own deck, brings some variety, yet the overall gameplay loop remains consistent.
For those looking for a challenging, deep deckbuilding experience, Nif Nif might feel more like a light snack than a hearty meal. But if you’re after a relaxing, family-friendly game with lovable 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
Summary: Nif Nif is a cozy, beginner-friendly deckbuilder with charming visuals and a wholesome feel. Its short, relaxing sessions and accessible design are perfect for those seeking a low-stress experience. With adorable characters and gentle gameplay, it’s a sweet and soothing way to explore the genre.
