Frank's Zoo

Doris & Frank, Arch Games, Enigma (Bergsala Enigma) · Board game · 1999
3–7 · best 4 60 min Weight 1.5/5
6.5 rating Ludopedia
6.6 rating BGG
6.5 rating Ludopedia
6.6 rating BGG
Our Verdict

If you enjoy light but strategic card games and love cute animals, Frank's Zoo is a sure bet! Perfect for gathering friends and having a good laugh.

Highlights
  • Fun ladder climbing mechanic
  • Captivating animal theme
  • Easy to learn
  • Player interaction
  • High replayability
Keep in mind
  • Can have some luck dependence
  • Better with more players
RECOMMENDED
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About the game
In Frank's Zoo, the jungle becomes a card battleground where the goal is to be the first to get rid of all your beasts! This is a ladder-climbing game, in the style of classics like Tichu and The Great Dalmuti, but with a super charming animal twist. The cards are illustrated with different species, and each animal can only be 'scared away' by specific others, creating a fun hierarchy of predators and prey. You can play one or more cards of the same type, and the next player can only cover your play if they have more cards of that same animal, or the same number of cards of an animal that scares it away. The trick is that strength isn't just in quantity, but also in which animal you have in hand! The game is divided into several rounds, and scoring is based on the order in which players manage to empty their hands. Additionally, there are extra points for collecting lion cards and a hedgehog, adding an interesting strategic layer. Frank's Zoo offers two game modes: one where all rounds follow the same rules, and another more dynamic one, with partners changing each hand, which ensures good replayability and keeps everyone on their toes. It's a light, fast-paced game with plenty of interaction, perfect for those looking for a relaxed card game experience with just the right amount of tactical challenge.
Rules videos

In English

BEST PLAYER COUNT
3 OK
4 BEST
5 BEST
6 BEST
7 REC
WHERE TO BUY
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Game details

Categories

Families

Animals: Alligators / Crocodiles Animals: Bears Animals: Chameleons Animals: Elephants Animals: Fish / Fishes Animals: Foxes Animals: Hedgehogs / Porcupines Animals: Lions Animals: Mice Animals: Seals Animals: Whales Card Games: Climbing Card Games: Shedding / Stops Theme: Zoos, Aquaria, Safari Parks
Publisher Doris & Frank, Arch Games, Enigma (Bergsala Enigma), HeidelBÄR Games, MINDOK, PS-Games, Rio Grande Games, Swan Panasia Co., Ltd.
Designer Doris Matthäus, Frank Nestel
Artist Doris Matthäus, Frank Nestel
Frequently Asked Questions
How many players can play Frank's Zoo?
Frank's Zoo is ideal for groups, accommodating 3 to 7 players, making it super versatile for different table sizes.
What is the average game duration?
A full game of Frank's Zoo usually takes between 30 to 60 minutes, depending on the number of players and familiarity with the rules. It's perfect for a quick session!
Is Frank's Zoo a complex game?
Not at all! It's considered low complexity (BGG weight of 1.5258), with easy-to-grasp rules but enough strategic depth to keep it interesting.
What are the main components of the game?
The game primarily consists of a deck of cards illustrated with various animals, each with its value and 'scare' hierarchy. Simple and effective!
Who is Frank's Zoo recommended for?
It's highly recommended for those who enjoy 'ladder-climbing' card games like Tichu or The Great Dalmuti, families, and groups of friends looking for a fun, fast-paced game with plenty of interaction.
Are there any expansions for Frank's Zoo?
Currently, there are no known official expansions for Frank's Zoo, but replayability is guaranteed by the different game modes and player interaction.