Review of Nif Nif (PC)

Looking for a card game that swaps combat for cleanliness? "Nif Nif" might be just what you need. Created by Springfox Games, this delightful roguelike deckbuilder takes you on an adventure with a cute piglet aimed at cleaning up a forest covered in mysterious goo. It combines strategy with a heartwarming touch.

From the start, you’re greeted with soothing pastel colors and a whimsical chalk-drawn art style, setting a relaxing tone that feels like a spa day for your senses. As you progress, you build a deck using cleaning-themed cards to clear corrupted creatures. Choose your path wisely as you navigate through battles, shops, or take a break at campfires, adding some strategic planning to your journey.

While it shares a genre with giants like "Slay the Spire," "Nif Nif" walks its own path. "Slay the Spire" is all about complexity and challenge, whereas "Nif Nif" offers easygoing, positive gameplay. Instead of stressing over every card draw, you’re focused on optimizing cleanliness. While the former might be difficult to complete, "Nif Nif" offers more forgiving odds for finishing your run.

A standout feature is its accessibility. Designed with neurodivergent players in mind, it includes considerate touches like muted default audio and clear transition screens to minimize sensory overload. It’s an ideal pick for those new to deckbuilding or anyone wanting a stress-free gaming experience.

For experienced deckbuilder fans, "Nif Nif" might feel a bit simplistic. Games can be as short as 10 minutes, and the difficulty doesn’t increase significantly, which might seem repetitive. There are unlockables like new cards and cute hats offering bonuses, but the core mechanics largely remain the same.

What makes "Nif Nif" special is its simplicity and charm. It doesn’t aim to reshape the deckbuilding genre but offers a comforting, manageable experience. You can even switch things up by playing as a grumpy cat with a unique deck, although the main gameplay loop stays consistent.

If you’re after a challenging, deep dive into deckbuilding, "Nif Nif" might feel more like a quick snack than a full meal. However, if you’re looking for a relaxing, family-friendly game with lovable characters and a positive vibe, it’s a delightful choice.

This review is based on a retail copy of the game from the publisher.

Summary:

"Nif Nif" provides a cozy, beginner-friendly deckbuilding adventure with charming visuals and a feel-good ambiance. Its short, relaxing runs and accessible design are perfect for those seeking a laid-back experience, featuring adorable characters and gameplay that’s both sweet and calming.