If you’re in the mood for a warm and cozy card-slinging adventure, Nif Nif might be the digital escape you’ve been searching for. Developed by Springfox Games, this delightful roguelike deckbuilder features an adorable piglet on a quest to cleanse a forest spoiled by mysterious goo. It’s a charming blend of strategy and wholesomeness wrapped up in an inviting package.
Right from the start, Nif Nif enchants with its pastel colors and chalk-like art style, creating an unbelievably calming atmosphere. The gameplay is simple and engaging: build a deck filled with cleaning-themed cards to wash away the grime from corrupted forest creatures. Each run lets you choose your path, whether you’re heading into battle, visiting shops, or taking a break by a campfire, adding a thoughtful strategic layer to your journey.
Before we get ahead of ourselves and start drawing parallels between Nif Nif and heavyweight contenders like Slay the Spire, let’s set the record straight. Although they share the same genre, they’re operating on different wavelengths. Slay the Spire is the complex and challenging titan of deckbuilders, while Nif Nif resembles a gentle, amicable princess more focused on tidying up than breaking a sweat. In Slay the Spire, every card draw is filled with tension, but in Nif Nif, it’s about optimizing your cleansing strategy with a chill vibe. You might struggle to beat Slay the Spire during a run, but chances are much higher you’ll cruise through Nif Nif.
One of the standout features of the game is its accessibility, designed thoughtfully with neurodivergent players in mind. Nif Nif takes care to include muted default audio and clear transition screens to reduce sensory overload. It’s a gentle introduction to deckbuilding, perfect for beginners or those wanting a low-stress gaming experience.
However, if you’re a seasoned deckbuilder enthusiast, you might find Nif Nif a bit lacking in depth. Runs can be as quick as 10 minutes, and the difficulty doesn’t scale significantly, which might lead to a repetitive feel after several playthroughs. While there are unlockables like new cards and adorable hats offering gameplay bonuses, the core mechanics remain largely unchanged.
The simplicity of the game is truly its charm. It’s not trying to reinvent the wheel but offers a comforting, bite-sized experience. Introducing a second playable character—a grumpy cat with a unique deck—adds some variety, though the overall gameplay loop stays consistent.
For those craving a challenging, deep deckbuilding experience, Nif Nif may feel more like a light snack rather than a full-course meal. But if you’re after a relaxing, family-friendly game with lovable characters and a positive message, it’s an absolutely delightful choice.
This review is based on a retail copy of the game provided by the publisher.
Review Summary:
- Tone & Atmosphere: 9/10
- Gameplay Simplicity: 9/10
- Strategic Depth: 6/10
- Replayability: 8/10
Overall: 8/10
Nif Nif is a cozy, beginner-friendly deckbuilder featuring charming visuals and a wholesome atmosphere. With short, relaxing runs and an accessible design, it’s perfect for players seeking a no-pressure gaming experience. Adorable characters and soothing gameplay make it a sweet introduction to the genre.
