The episode features strong guest turns from Brooklyn Decker (Holly) and Brenda Song (Daisy), who later becomes a recurring love interest for Winston. Critical Reception

After 40 episodes of teasing, Nick and Jess share a passionate hallway kiss. Reviewers often cite it as one of the most satisfying "will-they-won't-they" payoffs in sitcom history, specifically praising Nick’s line, "No, not like this," when he refuses to kiss her just to win a game.

Included it in their top 10 list, describing it as the moment that cemented the show as a "best-in-class rom-sitcom".

New Girl, Season 2, Episode 15: Cooler, Review | Den of Geek

Called it a "DVR keeper" and praised the writers for making the kiss feel earned and necessary rather than trite.