Step 1: Understanding the Concept
The geometry of a complex follows from the hybridisation of the central metal ion, which depends on the strength of the ligand.
Step 2: Find the metal configuration
In \([\text{Ni(CN)}_4]^{2-}\), Ni is in the +2 state: \(3d^{8}\).
Step 3: Effect of the ligand
\(\text{CN}^{-}\) is a strong field ligand, so the eight d electrons pair up in four d orbitals and one 3d orbital is vacated.
Step 4: Hybridisation
One 3d, the 4s and two 4p orbitals mix to give \(dsp^{2}\) hybrid orbitals, which are directed to the corners of a square.
Final Answer:
The complex is square planar.
\[ \boxed{\text{(C) }\text{Square planar}} \]