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If you’re looking for a card-slashing escapade that’s more suds than swords, "Nif Nif" could be just what you need for a digital refresh. Created by Springfox Games, this delightful roguelike deckbuilder puts you in the hooves of an adorable piglet set on purifying a forest overtaken by enigmatic muck. The game masterfully blends strategy with a cozy, feel-good atmosphere.
Right from the start, "Nif Nif" captures your heart with its soft pastel colors and charming, chalk-like art style. The world feels as calming as a day at the spa. The objective is simple: construct a deck of cleaning-themed cards to scrub the grime off corrupted forest creatures. Each playthrough offers different paths, letting you decide between battles, shopping opportunities, or restful campfires, adding a strategic twist to your cleaning quest.
Before you start drawing parallels between "Nif Nif" and heavyweights like "Slay the Spire," let’s clarify—they share a genre but march to completely different beats. "Slay the Spire" towers over the deckbuilder genre with its complexity, challenge, and replayability. Meanwhile, "Nif Nif" is the delightful, peaceful alternative, aiming to tidy up rather than create chaos. Where "Slay the Spire" thrives on tension with each card you draw, "Nif Nif" leans into positive reinforcement and soothing vibes. It’s about getting the best cleansing score rather than surviving at all costs. Plus, you’re more likely to finish a run in "Nif Nif" versus "Slay the Spire"—an 80% success rate versus a challenging 20%.
One of the standout features of "Nif Nif" is its accessibility. Thoughtfully designed with neurodivergent players in mind, it includes considerations like default muted audio and clear transition screens to minimize sensory overload. This makes it an excellent entry point for those new to the deckbuilding genre or seeking a low-pressure gaming encounter.
However, if you’re a seasoned deckbuilder enthusiast, "Nif Nif" might not deliver the depth you’re accustomed to. Runs can be wrapped up in just 10 minutes, and as stated earlier, the difficulty doesn’t ramp up much, which might lead to repetitiveness after a few playthroughs. While there are unlockables like fresh cards and cute hats that enhance gameplay with bonuses, the core mechanics remain largely unchanged.
The beauty of "Nif Nif" lies in its simplicity. It’s not attempting to reshape the genre, but rather offers a comforting, bite-sized experience. Introducing a second character, a grumpy cat with its own deck, adds some flavor, but the overall gameplay loop stays the same.
For those chasing a deeply challenging deckbuilder, "Nif Nif" might feel like more of a light snack than a full-course meal. But if you’re on the hunt for a laid-back, family-friendly game with charming characters and a positive message, it’s a delightful choice.
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" is a cozy, beginner-friendly deckbuilder boasting charming visuals and a wholesome vibe. Its short, relaxing runs and accessible design make it a perfect choice for players seeking a stress-free experience. With lovable characters and gentle gameplay, it’s a sweet introduction to the genre.
