If you’re on the hunt for a cozy card game that trades swords for soap, then Nif Nif might just be the perfect escape for you. Created by Springfox Games, this delightful roguelike deckbuilder features an endearing piglet on a mission to clean up a forest overrun with mysterious goo. It blends strategic gameplay with a warm and inviting atmosphere that’s sure to wrap you in a blanket of feel-good vibes.
From the outset, Nif Nif captivates with its soft pastel colors and chalk-like art style, setting a peaceful scene akin to a relaxing spa day. The core gameplay is simple: construct a deck of cleaning-themed cards to purify tainted forest creatures. Each game session presents branching paths, giving you the choice of engaging in battles, visiting shops, or enjoying restful campfires, all of which add a strategic twist to your cleansing adventure.
Before drawing parallels between Nif Nif and giants like Slay the Spire, let’s set the record straight — yes, they share the same genre, but they have entirely different vibes. Slay the Spire stands tall in the deckbuilder world, known for its complexity and challenge. Nif Nif, on the other hand, is more like the gentle, charming little sibling who prefers tidying up messes rather than creating them. While Slay the Spire keeps you on edge with every card draw, Nif Nif offers a soothing experience focused on positive reinforcement. It’s not about surviving by the skin of your teeth but finding joy in optimizing your cleansing. Plus, there’s a good chance you’ll complete your run in Nif Nif, unlike the more challenging odds in Slay the Spire.
A standout feature of Nif Nif is its accessibility. Tailored with neurodivergent players in mind, it incorporates thoughtful elements like muted default audio and clear transitions to minimize sensory overload. This makes it an excellent entry point into the deckbuilding genre for newcomers or anyone wanting a stress-free gaming experience.
However, seasoned deckbuilder fans might find Nif Nif a bit lacking in depth. Runs can be wrapped up in roughly 10 minutes, and the lack of significant difficulty scaling can lead to a sense of repetition over time. While there are unlockables like new cards and cute hats offering gameplay bonuses, the basic mechanics mostly remain the same.
The game shines in its simplicity. It doesn’t aim to upend the genre but delivers a comforting, bite-sized delight. Adding a second playable character — a grumpy cat with a unique deck — brings some variety, though the main gameplay loop stays consistent.
For those in search of a rich and challenging deckbuilding experience, Nif Nif might feel more like a light snack than a grand feast. But for players chasing a relaxing, family-friendly game with lovable characters and a positive outlook, it’s a delightful pick.
This review is based on a retail copy of the game provided by the publisher.
Nif Nif Review
- Tone & Atmosphere: 9/10
- Gameplay Simplicity: 9/10
- Strategic Depth: 6/10
- Replayability: 8/10
Overall Score: 8/10
Summary: Nif Nif offers a cozy, beginner-friendly entry into the deckbuilding genre, featuring charming visuals and wholesome vibes. Its short, relaxing sessions and accessible design make it perfect for those seeking a low-stress experience, packed with adorable characters and gentle gameplay.
