9.1
rating
Ludopedia
8.5
rating
BGG
Our Verdict
If you're looking for a deep, strategic eurogame with a compelling theme, Ark Nova will have you building your dream zoo with a conservationist's heart. Its innovative action selection system truly makes every turn a thoughtful puzzle.
Highlights
- Engaging zoo-building and conservation theme
- Innovative and strategic action selection
- High replayability with diverse cards
- Satisfying engine-building progression
Keep in mind
- Long playtime for a single session
- High complexity might deter new players
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED
Learn How to Play Step by Step
Check out our interactive rules guide and exclusive illustrated infographic.
Access Rules Guide
In Ark Nova, your mission is clear and fascinating: to build and manage a modern zoo, with a strong focus on science and conservation. Your ultimate goal is to own the most successful zoological establishment, and to achieve this, you will construct enclosures, house a variety of animals, and support conservation projects across the globe. To aid you in this endeavor, specialists and unique buildings will be at your disposal, adding strategic layers to your planning. The core of the game lies in a system of five action cards that each player possesses. The clever twist is that the strength of an action is determined by the position of the card on a track, forcing you to carefully consider the order of your plays. Actions include: 'Cards', to acquire new animals, sponsors, and conservation projects; 'Build', to construct enclosures, kiosks, and pavilions; 'Animals', to house your new species; 'Association', to activate your workers for important tasks; and 'Sponsors', to play sponsor cards or raise funds. With an impressive 255 cards featuring animals, specialists, special enclosures, and conservation projects, each with its unique ability, Ark Nova offers incredible strategic depth. Use them to increase the appeal and scientific reputation of your zoo, accumulating valuable conservation points. Get ready for a challenge that blends planning, management, and plenty of interaction with wildlife!
GALLERY
12 photos · from the community
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In English
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How to Play ARK NOVA!
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Ark Nova - Board Game Tutorial. Start Playing in 13 Minutes
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How to play Ark Nova board game - Full teach + Visuals - Peaky Boardgamer
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How to Win Ark Nova (from WSBG)
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Ark Nova Rules Challenge
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Ark Nova: How to Play and Tips
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Learn to Play Ark Nova (and solo)
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10 Tips to Help You Win w/ JDanSP | Ark Nova Strategy
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Let's play a turn of Ark Nova
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The Ultimate Ark Nova Strategy Guide
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How to Play Ark Nova + Marine Worlds with Strategy Tips!
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Tier List - Alternate Action Cards
1
REC
2
BEST
3
REC
4
OK
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Mechanics
Categories
Families
Publisher
Feuerland Spiele, Capstone Games, CMON Global Limited, Cranio Creations, Game Harbor, Gémklub
Designer
Mathias Wigge
Artist
Dennis Lohausen, Loïc Billiau, Steffen Bieker
How many players does Ark Nova support and what's the average game duration?
Ark Nova supports 1 to 4 players, and games can be quite long, ranging from 90 to 150 minutes. It's a good idea to set aside a generous amount of time for your session!
What's the complexity level of Ark Nova? Is it a game for beginners?
With a BGG weight of 3.79/5, Ark Nova is considered a highly complex game. It's not recommended for board game beginners, but it's a feast for experienced players looking for a strategic challenge.
What makes Ark Nova so special and different from other zoo-building games?
What truly shines in Ark Nova is the dynamic action card system, where the strength of your action changes based on the card's position. This, combined with the vast number of unique cards and the emphasis on conservation, creates a very rich and engaging strategic experience.
Do I need a lot of table space to play Ark Nova?
Yes, with many components, an individual player board for each player, and a central area, Ark Nova requires a good amount of table space. Be prepared to spread out your zoo!
Does Ark Nova have expansions or additional content?
Yes, Ark Nova already has expansions that add new animals, mechanics, and challenges, further increasing the game's replayability and depth. Keep an eye out to expand your zoo!
What is the main objective of the game?
Your objective is to build the most successful zoo by balancing appeal (attracting visitors), scientific reputation, and, crucially, accumulating conservation points by supporting global projects. It's a race for victory points on multiple fronts!