Nif Nif – Design adapted to children, but also appealing to adults

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• DEVELOPER: Springfox Games
• PUBLISHER: Springfox Games
• PLATFORMS: PC
• GENRE: Rougelike / Deckbuilder
• RELEASE DATE: April 1, 2025
• STARTING PRICE: 19.50€
• REVIEWED VERSION: PC

Nif Nif is a cozy take on the roguelike deckbuilding genre, blending the strategic card-based combat with a wholesome, non-violent twist. You play as Nif Nif, a cheerful piglet (or an unlockable cat character), tasked with cleaning a forest overrun by mysterious evil goo. Each run involves navigating a branching procedural map, choosing paths that lead to encounters, cleaning mud off forest creatures, visiting shops for cards and upgrades, resting at campfires, or triggering quirky random events.

Replayable, Yet Repetitive

While the game offers strong replayability at first glance, with collectible cards, ability-altering hats, and unlockable cat characters, its content struggles to sustain long-term engagement. The core issue lies in the repetitive gameplay loop. Path selection and combat grow stale quickly, as recycled enemy encounters and repeated events (even late into a run) undermine the initial variety. Despite the surface-level customization options, the experience becomes predictable within just a few hours.

The game is ultimately saved by its smart level system and short, 20-minute play sessions, perfect for quick rounds without feeling like a time sink. It nails that addictive “just one more round” feeling, which fits its design perfectly. While clearly made with kids in mind, as game’s director Masha Mallet noted in our interview last year – it’s a great learning tool, but the deckbuilding roguelite mechanics offer enough depth to keep adults engaged too. There’s no shame in enjoying it, the gameplay loop is genuinely structured properly.

Level system keeps progression rewarding, unlocking new cards, consumables, and hats. Progression is quick and forgiving, as losing a run never feels punishing. Gameplay also stays accessible with straightforward cards (clean damage, healing, shielding) perfect for kids or newcomers to the genre, while unlockable hats and soup recipes add just enough strategic depth to keep it interesting. The random events add welcome variety, whether restoring health, granting power boosts, offering unique bonuses, or stumbling upon shops. They strike a nice balance: enough diversity to stay engaging without overwhelming you.

Cute and Colorful World

Nif Nif, the adorable little pig, was designed with creative input from the game director’s autistic son. His mission is to save forest animals: foxes, snails, prairie dogs from a sticky, polluting goo. This isn’t a story about saving the world; it’s about kindness, teamwork, and taking care of nature. Along the way, you’ll meet fun characters like a wolf mom with her cubs and playful references. The story isn’t deep, but it’s full of heart.

There’s no deep lore or character development as Nif Nif and the cat are silent protagonists defined by their actions, and the tone stays light and positive. Random events can also sprinkle in pop culture easter eggs. It’s not a story to analyze, but a cozy backdrop that justifies the cleaning spree. Don’t expect a complex plot; this is a cozy, happy game about cleaning up and helping others.

Soft pastel colors and chalk-like art make everything feel warm and friendly. Nif Nif has a round, cute nose, the cat grumbles without words, and the goo-covered animals are full of personality. Even the backgrounds such as twinkling campfires, peaceful forests add to the cozy vibe. The cards are also bright and clear, with fun unlockable outfits to collect.

Ending Thoughts

Nif Nif succeeds at what it sets out to be: a family-friendly roguelike deckbuilder that radiates warmth and accessibility. With its cozy atmosphere, straightforward mechanics, and uplifting tone, it’s ideal for introducing younger players to the genre or offering adults a refreshing break from darker games. While its simplicity means it won’t satisfy those seeking deep strategic complexity, the game delivers exceptional polish and heart for its target audience. For those looking for a wholesome, low-stakes adventure or a kid-friendly gaming experience, this stands as a good choice.

Review copy provided by the publisher