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If you’re on the hunt for a cozy card game that trades in swords for soap suds, Nif Nif might just be your new go-to. Created by Springfox Games, this delightful roguelike deckbuilder follows an endearing piglet on a mission to scrub a forest clean from a mysterious goopy mess. The game offers strategic play wrapped up in comfort and charm.
From the beginning, Nif Nif captivates you with its soft pastel colors and art style reminiscent of chalk drawings, setting a soothing scene that’s as calming as a day at the spa. The mechanics are simple: collect cleaning-themed cards to clear away muck from corrupted forest critters. Each playthrough gives you choices between battles, store visits, or relaxing campfires, weaving strategy into your cleansing adventure.
Before drawing parallels to games like Slay the Spire, let’s set the record straight—these games might share a genre, but they dance to different tunes. Slay the Spire stands tall in the deckbuilder world, known for its complexity and challenge. Meanwhile, Nif Nif is more like a gentle princess wanting to tidy up rather than create chaos. While tension in Slay the Spire is high with every card draw, Nif Nif centers on positive vibes. It’s not about surviving; it’s about maximizing your cleaning efficiency. You might struggle to finish a run in Slay the Spire, but in Nif Nif, there’s a good chance of completing your mission.
What really sets Nif Nif apart is its accessibility. Thoughtfully designed for neurodivergent players, it includes features like muted default audio and clear transitions to minimize sensory overload. It’s an excellent introduction to deckbuilding, perfect for newcomers or anyone seeking a stress-free game.
However, avid deckbuilder fans might wish for more depth. You can finish runs in about 10 minutes, and the difficulty doesn’t ramp up much, so it might feel repetitive after a while. There are new cards and cute hats to unlock, offering bonuses, but the core mechanics largely stay the same.
The game’s strength lies in its simplicity. It’s not aiming to revolutionize the genre but delivers a cozy experience. Adding a second character, a grumpy cat with its own deck, brings some variation, but the overall experience remains steady.
If you’re looking for a complex, challenging deckbuilder, Nif Nif might feel more like a light snack than a filling meal. Yet, for those in search of a relaxing, family-friendly option with lovable characters and a heartening message, this game is a wonderful choice.
This review is based on a 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: 8/10
Summary:
Nif Nif is a welcoming, beginner-friendly deckbuilder with charming visuals and a wholesome feel. Its brief, relaxing play sessions and accessible design make it perfect for anyone looking for a low-pressure gaming experience. With adorable characters and gentle gameplay, it serves as a sweet and soothing introduction to the genre.
