Ark Nova
Official Description:
In Ark Nova, players are tasked with planning and designing a modern, scientifically managed zoo. The objective is to own the most successful zoological establishment by building enclosures, accommodating animals, and supporting conservation projects worldwide. Players use a variety of cards representing animals, specialists, unique enclosures, and conservation tasks, each offering different strategic opportunities.
Gameplay revolves around five action cards that allow players to build enclosures, gain new animals, associate with sponsors, and support conservation efforts. The strength of each action depends on its position in the player’s action row, requiring careful planning and timing. As players expand their zoos, they must balance increasing their zoo’s appeal with advancing conservation projects, as both are crucial for victory.
Ark Nova combines strategic card management, resource allocation, and spatial planning. The game challenges players to create synergies between cards and actions, adapt to changing opportunities, and optimize their zoo’s growth. The winner is the player whose appeal and conservation points intersect first, reflecting the most successful and sustainable zoo.
The sliding action-selection row, paired with the spatial puzzle of zoo construction, gives Ark Nova a mechanical identity that stands out even in a crowded field of card-driven engine builders. The tactical depth stems from timing: players must chain effects while managing the inherent tension between immediate Appeal gains and long-term Conservation goals. The converging scoring tracks are a brilliant endgame trigger, forcing a strategic balance that rewards players who can visualize the full arc of the session rather than just the next turn.
Hosting this title is a logistical heavy-lift. The massive table footprint and "box of baggies" component management make it a significant table hog, leaving almost no room for snacks or accessories. Setup and teardown require a solid 20 minutes on either end, and the box volume leaves little room for additional organizer elements. This is an anchor game that demands a dedicated surface and a group ready to commit to a full-length session; once it’s out, it isn't moving until the final tally.
Teaching Ark Nova requires a methodical focus on the scoring tracks. New players habitually over-index on Appeal and fail to plan for the Conservation projects that actually trigger the endgame. Highlighting this early is essential to prevent lopsided finishes. Once underway, the parallel play structure allows the host to step away as needed without derailing the flow. The energy remains focused and "heads-down," making it the ideal heavyweight pick for groups that prefer deep tactical chaining over direct player conflict.
MY score
10
Our Total Plays
51
Last PLayed
15 Nov 25
🚀 High Velocity
Player Count
1-4
Playtime
150 mins
👑 PREMIUM
Play on BGA
