Review: Nif Nif (PC)

If you’re in the mood for a cozy adventure with a unique twist, Nif Nif could be your next go-to game. Created by Springfox Games, this delightful roguelike deckbuilder features a charming little piglet whose mission is to cleanse a forest plagued by mysterious goo. It combines strategic gameplay with a heartwarming, feel-good vibe.

Right from the start, Nif Nif enchants players with its pastel colors and chalk-like art style, offering a serene atmosphere perfect for relaxation. The core gameplay involves building a deck of cleaning-themed cards to purify corrupted forest creatures. Each run lets you choose your path—battles, shops, or campfires—giving you a strategic edge in your quest to clean up the mess.

Before you start drawing comparisons to heavyweights like Slay the Spire, it’s worth noting that while both belong to the same genre, they’re quite different in their approach. Slay the Spire, known for its complexity and challenge, stands as the reigning king of deckbuilders. In contrast, Nif Nif is like the charming little princess who just wants to tidy things up, not create chaos. While Slay the Spire keeps you on edge with every card draw, Nif Nif focuses on gentle encouragement and chill vibes. It’s more about maximizing your cleansing skills rather than mere survival. And while you might have only a 20% chance of beating Slay the Spire in a run, you’d likely have an 80% chance of completing one in Nif Nif.

A standout feature of Nif Nif is its accessibility. Designed with neurodivergent players in mind, it includes thoughtful features like muted default audio and clear transition screens to minimize sensory overload. This makes it an excellent introduction to the deckbuilding genre for newcomers or those seeking a laid-back gaming experience.

However, experienced deckbuilder players might find Nif Nif lacking in depth. Runs can be wrapped up in about 10 minutes, and the difficulty doesn’t significantly increase, potentially leading to repetitive gameplay after a few rounds. While there are unlockables like new cards and cute hats offering gameplay bonuses, the core mechanics stay fairly constant.

The game’s charm lies in its simplicity. It’s not trying to revolutionize the genre but offers a comforting, bite-sized experience. The addition of another playable character—a grumpy cat with its own deck—adds some variety, but the gameplay loop remains consistent.

If you’re after a challenging, deep deckbuilding experience, Nif Nif might feel more like a light snack than a full meal. But for those looking for a relaxing, family-friendly game with endearing 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.

Review Highlights:

• 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 and beginner-friendly deckbuilder with charming visuals and wholesome vibes. Its short, relaxing runs and accessible design make it perfect for players seeking a low-stress experience. With its adorable characters and gentle gameplay, it offers a sweet and soothing introduction to the genre.