Overview
Released: 2021
Designer: Mathias Wigge
Version Publisher: Capstone Games
Ark Nova is a 1-4 player game where players take on the role of little Zoo Tycoons. Build exhibits for animals, support conservation projects, and create the most appealing zoo before the game ends to be crowned the Top Elephant (Not a real distinction).
My Thoughts
Ark Nova has a lot going on. Maybe even too many things for most players who might like the idea of running a zoo. When each card features 7+ different symbols to know and your hand tends to have 3+ cards in them, there's a lot to keep straight. That said, the experience is really rewarding if you do end up taking the plunge. I find sequencing your turns around the action system and the dual victory point tracks to be my favorite parts of a game with no shortage of cards or content.Â
If you like the Zoo Tycoon video games and want to spend 90 minutes per player showing off your exhibits and saying aminals out loud, you should try Ark Nova.
Hits and Misses
+ The theming is something just about anyone can get into and have a connection with.
+ I find I rarely have "do nothing" turns. Even if I have a smaller setup turn, I almost always find that I'm excited to slot down one of my action cards or generate just enough money to play the animal I want.
There are hundreds of unique cards in this game and sometimes players draw the perfect card and other times you get nothing useful.