If you’re on the hunt for a warm, card-slinging adventure that trades weapons for soap bubbles, look no further than "Nif Nif." Created by Springfox Games, this delightful roguelike deckbuilder features an adorable piglet determined to clean up a forest plagued by mysterious goo. Prepare for a strategic journey wrapped in feel-good vibes.
Right from the start, "Nif Nif" captivates with its pastel colors and chalk-like artwork, crafting an atmosphere as calming as a day at the spa. The gameplay is straightforward: assemble a deck of cleaning-themed cards to purge the forest creatures of their corruption. Each run offers different paths, letting you choose between battles, shops, or restful campfires, adding a strategic twist to your cleaning quest.
Before you start drawing parallels to heavyweights like "Slay the Spire," let’s set the record straight—while they’re in the same genre, these two games offer wildly different experiences. "Slay the Spire" is like the genre’s tough-as-nails patriarch—intense and endlessly replayable. In contrast, "Nif Nif" is the sweet-natured younger sibling who just wants to tidy up without the drama. While tension runs high in "Slay the Spire," "Nif Nif" champions gentle tunes and laid-back vibes. It’s less about surviving a brutal gauntlet and more about optimizing your cleanup skills. Plus, where "Slay the Spire" might thwart you five times out of ten, "Nif Nif" gives you a much easier path, with an 80% completion rate per run.
A standout feature of "Nif Nif" is its inclusivity and accessibility. Designed with neurodivergent players in mind, it features muted default audio and clear transitions to prevent sensory overload. It’s a gentle intro to deckbuilding, perfect for newcomers or those seeking a stress-free gaming session.
However, seasoned deckbuilder veterans might find "Nif Nif" a little shallow. You can finish runs in about 10 minutes, and the challenge doesn’t ramp up much, sometimes making it feel repetitive after multiple plays. There are unlockables, like new cards and cute hats, but the core mechanics stay mostly unchanged.
The game’s charm lies in its simplicity. It doesn’t aim to revolutionize the genre but instead delivers a comforting, bite-sized pleasure. A second playable character, a grumpy cat with a unique deck, adds some variety, yet the overall experience remains steady.
For hardcore deckbuilding fans wanting deep challenges, "Nif Nif" might feel like a light snack rather than a satisfying meal. But for those after a relaxing, family-friendly game with lovable characters and an uplifting message, it’s a delightful option.
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" is a cozy, beginner-friendly deckbuilder with charming visuals and feel-good vibes. Its short, relaxing runs and accessible design make it ideal for players in search of a peaceful experience. With its adorable characters and easygoing gameplay, it’s a lovely and soothing introduction to the genre.