If you’re in the mood for a delightful card-based adventure that ditches swords for suds, Nif Nif could be just the rejuvenating escape you need. Developed by Springfox Games, this enchanting roguelike deckbuilder casts you as an adorable piglet on a quest to cleanse a forest plagued by mysterious muck. It offers strategic gameplay wrapped in a blanket of warm, fuzzy feelings.
Right from the start, Nif Nif captivates with its pastel colors and chalk-like art style, creating a tranquil atmosphere as soothing as a spa day. The game is straightforward: construct a deck of cleaning-themed cards to scrub away the grime from corrupted forest creatures. Each run offers branching paths, letting you pick between battles, shops, or restful campfires, adding a strategic twist to your mission.
Before you draw any parallels to heavyweights like Slay the Spire, it’s worth pointing out—while both share the deckbuilding genre, they each have their own unique vibe. Slay the Spire stands tall with its complexity and challenge, whereas Nif Nif comes across as the charming, easygoing princess focused on tidying up rather than creating chaos. Where the former tests your every move, Nif Nif lays down a path rich in gentle reinforcement and peaceful vibes. Here, it’s more about optimizing your cleaning strategy than intense survival tactics. And while Slay the Spire often challenges you to the very end, Nif Nif offers a more forgiving, 80% chance of completing your journey.
One of Nif Nif’s standout features is its emphasis on accessibility. Designed with neurodivergent players in mind, it includes thoughtful touches like default muted audio and clear transition screens to minimize sensory overload. It’s a welcoming introduction to the deckbuilding genre, ideal for newcomers or those looking for a low-stress gaming experience.
However, seasoned deckbuilder fans may find Nif Nif somewhat lacking in depth. Runs can be wrapped up in about 10 minutes, and as mentioned, the difficulty doesn’t ramp up significantly, which might lead to some repetitiveness after a few playthroughs. Though there are unlockables like new cards and adorable hats that offer gameplay perks, the core mechanics stay mostly the same.
The game’s charm lies in its simplicity. It doesn’t aim to redefine the genre, but rather provides a comforting, bite-sized experience. The introduction of a second playable character, a grumpy cat with its own deck, brings some variety, but the overall gameplay loop remains familiar.
For those in search of a challenging, deep deckbuilding experience, Nif Nif might feel more like a light snack than a substantial feast. But for players craving a relaxing, family-friendly game with endearing characters and a cheerful message, it’s a 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 Score: 8/10
Nif Nif offers a cozy, beginner-friendly deckbuilder experience with charming visuals and wholesome vibes. Its short, relaxing runs and accessible design make it perfect for those seeking a low-stress experience. With its lovable characters and gentle gameplay, it serves as a sweet introduction to the genre.
