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Release Date

2021

Game Designer
Mathias Wigge
Theme

Nature

HeartLeave a Review

Ark Nova

Black StarBlack StarBlack StarBlack StarBlack StarBlack StarBlack StarBlack StarBlack StarBlack Star
0.0
No reviews yet
hand management
Hand Management
Open Drafting
Open Drafting
tileplacement
Tile Placement
actionselection
Action Selection
tableau building
Tableau Building

Game DNA

Complexity

SimpleDense
CasualIntense
StraightforwardComplex

Experience

PassiveInteractive
MinimalOpen-Ended
LuckSkill
FrequentlyRarely
SolitaryEngaging
DryImmersive

Value for Money

BasicPremium
RarelyVariable

Plan and build a modern, scientifically managed zoo to support conservation projects.

Playing Time

90 - 150 Minutes

Player Count

1 - 4 Players

In Ark Nova, you will plan and design a modern, scientifically managed zoo. With the ultimate goal of owning the most successful zoological establishment, you will build enclosures, accommodate animals, and support conservation projects all over the world. Specialists and unique buildings will help you in achieving this goal. Each player has a set of five action cards to manage their gameplay, and the power of an action is determined by the slot the card currently occupies. The cards in question are: - CARDS: Allows you to gain new zoo cards (animals, sponsors, and conservation project cards). - BUILD: Allows you to build standard or special enclosures, kiosks, and pavilions. - ANIMALS: Allows you to accommodate animals in your zoo. - ASSOCIATION: Allows your association workers to carry out different tasks. - SPONSORS: Allows you to play a sponsor card in your zoo or to raise money. 255 cards featuring animals, specialists, special enclosures, and conservation projects, each with a special ability, are at the heart of Ark Nova. Use them to increase the appeal and scientific reputation of your zoo and collect conservation points.

Reviews

tim's avatar
tim
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A great game. At first, I didn't get the hype. After a few games though, I've started to love the game. One of my top strategic games.

Jake P's avatar
Jake P
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Luke's avatar
Luke
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Currently my number 1 game. This game gets better every time I play it. So much replayability in one box. Finally a heavy euro with an immersive and approachable theme. My only fault with the game is its length, it is very long. But with 2 experienced players you can smash out a game in about 90 minutes. Excellent - 10/10

matt's avatar
matt
edited
Gold StarGold StarGold StarGold StarGold StarGold StarGold StarGold StarGold StarBlack Star

When I originally picked up this game, I thought it would be similar to New York Zoo, Forest Shuffle and Cascadia. I didn't expect this polyomino, masterpiece. I have played this game so much, albeit not in person as much as I would like. Once you kind of work out the meta it has wore a little thin but Marine World expansion has kicked some more life in to this and I look forward to see what they do in the future.

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