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If you’re in the mood for a gentle card-based adventure where mops replace magic swords, Nif Nif might be the digital retreat you’ve been seeking. Created by Springfox Games, this delightful roguelike deckbuilder places you in the shoes—or trotters—of a lovable piglet determined to cleanse a forest overrun by mysterious goo. Wrapped in a cozy, inviting atmosphere, it offers strategic gameplay paired with wholesome charm.
From the start, Nif Nif draws you in with its pastel colors and chalk-like art style, offering a serene escape reminiscent of a spa day. The mechanics are simple: you build a deck of cleaning-themed cards to sweep away the grime from corrupted forest creatures. Each playthrough features branching paths, letting you decide between battles, shops, or soothing campfires, adding strategic depth to your cleansing quest.
Before you draw parallels to the giant Slay the Spire, let’s clarify—they may share the deckbuilder genre, but their vibes are entirely different. Slay the Spire reigns as a complex, challenging behemoth, while Nif Nif is like the gentle, non-confrontational princess of the genre. The tension in Slay the Spire keeps you on edge with every draw, whereas Nif Nif is all about positive vibes and relaxed gameplay. Success isn’t about intense strategy; it’s more about the joy of cleaning. While Slay the Spire’s victory is often elusive, with an 80% success chance in Nif Nif, you’re more likely to complete a run.
A standout aspect of Nif Nif is its accessibility. Thoughtfully designed with neurodivergent players in mind, it features muted default audio and smooth transition screens to prevent sensory overload, providing a gentle introduction to the genre. Perfect for newcomers or those craving a low-stress experience.
However, seasoned deckbuilder fans might find it lacks depth. With runs as short as 10 minutes and minimal scaling difficulty, it could feel repetitive after several playthroughs. Although you can unlock new cards and charming hats for bonuses, the core mechanics stay largely the same.
What really endears Nif Nif is its simplicity. It isn’t aiming to reinvent the wheel, but rather to offer a delightful, bite-sized experience. The addition of a second character—a grumpy cat with a unique deck—does add some variety, yet the gameplay loop remains consistent.
If you’re after a deep, challenging deckbuilding experience, Nif Nif might feel more like a light snack than a gourmet meal. However, for those looking for a relaxing, family-friendly game with lovable characters and a positive message, it’s a delightful choice.
This review is based on a retail version 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 Rating: 8/10
Summary:
Nif Nif is an inviting, beginner-friendly deckbuilder with captivating visuals and a wholesome atmosphere. Its short, relaxing sessions and thoughtful design make it perfect for players seeking a low-stress experience. With its endearing characters and gentle gameplay, it’s a sweet, soothing way to get into the genre.
