Zoo Vadis

Bitewing Games, Niza Gams, Old Dawg · Board game · 2023
3–7 · best 5 20–40 min Weight 2.1/5
8.1 rating Ludopedia
7.5 rating BGG
8.1 rating Ludopedia
7.5 rating BGG
Our Verdict

If you enjoy games with intense social interaction, cutthroat negotiation, and a charming theme, Zoo Vadis is a sure bet for your game nights!

Highlights
  • Intense and fun negotiation
  • Constant social interaction
  • Charming animal theme
  • High-quality components
  • Scales well with player counts
Keep in mind
  • Might not suit conflict-averse players
  • Requires engaged negotiators
  • Bribery rules can be tricky at first
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED
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About the game
What if the animals were truly in charge of the zoo? In Zoo Vadis, that's exactly the reality! Get ready for a universe where visitor fame and prestige are the currency for power. The most ambitious creatures will vie for a prominent spot in the 'Star Exhibit', and the animal that shines brightest will be elected the Zoo Mascot. To get there, each species must climb the enclosure hierarchy, securing the majority support of animal voters. The grand winner will be the one who accumulates the most 'laurels' – the admiration of fans and even the envy of rivals. But how do you achieve all this? Ah, my friend, this is where the magic happens: shrewd politicking, clever negotiations, and some well-crafted schemes are key. After all, there can only be one Mascot! Zoo Vadis is an evolution of Reiner Knizia’s classic 'Quo Vadis?', retaining all the elegance and political gameplay that fans love, but with a host of improvements. Now, the 3-player game is even more refined, and the board adapts to any player count with the addition of neutral, bribable peacocks. A second board expands the fun for 6-7 players, and asymmetric animal abilities open up a range of strategic negotiations. Special laurel tokens bring more tactical opportunities, and the vibrant art by Kwanchai Moriya and Brigette Indelicato, along with chunky animal figures and functional player screens, make for a spectacular presentation. The game ends as soon as the Star Exhibit is full. Only animals who have reached this level can win, and the Mascot is the one with the most laurels. Get ready for plenty of intrigue and fun!
Rules videos

In English

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

Families

Components: Player Screens Misc: Made by Panda Series: Crown Jewel Selection (Bitewing Games) Theme: Anthropomorphic Animals Theme: Zoos, Aquaria, Safari Parks
Publisher Bitewing Games, Niza Gams, Old Dawg, Oltha Editora, White Goblin Games
Designer Reiner Knizia
Artist Kwanchai Moriya
Frequently Asked Questions
How many players can play Zoo Vadis?
Zoo Vadis is super flexible! It can be played by 3 to 7 players, and the experience is adapted for each count, including a second board for larger groups.
What is the average playtime for Zoo Vadis?
Games are relatively quick, lasting between 20 and 40 minutes. Perfect for fitting into a game night or for multiple rounds!
Is Zoo Vadis a complex game?
It has a medium-light weight (2.0952/5 on BGG), meaning it's easy to learn but offers strategic depth, especially in negotiations. It's not overly complicated!
What are the main differences between Zoo Vadis and other negotiation games?
It evolves the classic 'Quo Vadis?' with asymmetric animal abilities, neutral bribable peacocks, and a 'laurel' system that adds layers to victory, all with incredible visual production.
Who is Zoo Vadis best suited for?
It's ideal for groups of friends who love to talk, bargain, and make deals (and break some, of course!). If you enjoy games with lots of interaction and a touch of politics, you'll have a blast.
Are the game components of good quality?
Yes! The production is one of its strong suits, featuring chunky animal figures, functional player screens, and vibrant art that truly brings the zoo theme to life.