If you’re in the mood for a delightful card-slinging journey that replaces swords with soap bubbles, then "Nif Nif" might just be your ideal escape. Crafted by Springfox Games, this adorable roguelike deckbuilder stars a charming little piglet who’s on a mission to clean up a forest riddled with mysterious goo. It seamlessly blends strategic gameplay with a cozy, welcoming atmosphere.
Right from the start, "Nif Nif" captivates with its soft, pastel colors and an art style reminiscent of chalk drawings, creating a relaxing vibe that feels like a day at the spa. The mechanics are simple: gather a deck of cleaning-themed cards to purify corrupted forest creatures. Each playthrough offers branching paths that allow you to decide between battles, shops, or restful campfires, adding a strategic twist to your cleansing quest.
Before you draw parallels to giants like "Slay the Spire," let’s set the record straight—while both games are part of the same genre, they operate on entirely different wavelengths. "Slay the Spire" is the undisputed king of deckbuilders, known for its complexity and challenging replayability. Meanwhile, "Nif Nif" takes on the role of a charming, gentle princess, more focused on tidying up than battling. The tension you feel with every draw in "Slay the Spire" is replaced by calm and positive vibes in "Nif Nif." Here, it’s not about survival at all costs—it’s about optimizing your cleaning efforts. While there’s a solid chance you might not beat "Slay the Spire" on a run, you’ll likely wrap up a session of "Nif Nif" successfully most of the time.
A standout feature of the game is its accessibility. Thoughtfully designed for neurodivergent players, "Nif Nif" includes details like muted default audio and clear transitions to minimize sensory overload. It offers an easy introduction to the deckbuilding genre, making it perfect for newcomers or those searching for a stress-free gaming experience.
However, if you’re a seasoned deckbuilding fan, "Nif Nif" might seem a bit shallow. You can finish runs in roughly 10 minutes, and as mentioned earlier, the difficulty doesn’t really ramp up, which could lead to repetitiveness over time. While there are unlockables like new cards and cute hats that provide gameplay bonuses, the core mechanics largely remain the same.
What makes this game truly enjoyable is its simplicity. It isn’t trying to revolutionize the genre but rather offers a comforting, bite-sized experience. There’s also a second playable character—a grumpy cat with a unique deck—which provides some variety, though the overall gameplay loop stays consistent.
If you’re after a challenging and deep deckbuilding venture, "Nif Nif" might feel more like a light snack than a filling feast. But for those in search of a relaxing, family-friendly game with charming characters, it’s a delightful pick.
This review is based on a retail version 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 Rating: 8/10
Summary:
"Nif Nif" is a cozy, beginner-friendly deckbuilder with lovely visuals and comforting vibes. Its short, soothing runs and accessible design make it a great choice for players seeking a low-stress experience. Featuring lovable characters and gentle gameplay, it offers a sweet introduction to the genre.
