Pilot reported a loss of power in flight requiring a forced off field landing in which the nose landing gear failed. Minimal aircraft damage and no injuries were reported.

Narrative

I was on a flight back from ZZZ at approximately XA:40 in the afternoon at 7;000 feet MSL and was talking with ZZZ approach just southwest of the ZZZ1 VOR when I had an abrupt loss of power. My Multi Function Display showed zero RPM and I was unable to get power to the propeller. The motor was still running and the propeller was still spinning but without any thrust. I grabbed the POH but had no time to review it in detail due to time. I saw what appeared to be a dirt strip and headed toward it but was going to be short. I put in full flaps and got it as slow as I could without stalling and did a soft field landing in the desert. The plane came to a complete stop on the nose after the front gear collapsed. No visible structural damage to the airplane except the propeller. My passenger and I got out without injury. I then called ATC to let them know we were ok. I also called 911 and informed them immediate assistance was not necessary. Before leaving I made sure the fuel was shut off and secured the plane accordingly.