Ark Nova: Zoo Map Pack 1

Map Pack 1 sits comfortably among the proven classics, offering a targeted refresh for Ark Nova veterans who have cycled through the original boards. The two new maps—Geographical Zoo and Rescue Station—aren’t just cosmetic swaps; each introduces a distinct spatial puzzle and bonus structure that forces even seasoned players to rethink their early moves and long-term engine. The expansion’s appeal is in its ability to inject new tactical wrinkles without bloating the rules overhead, making it a high-value addition for groups that have already internalized the base game’s flow. For collections where Ark Nova has earned its place through repeated play, these maps extend its shelf life and keep the table talk focused on fresh strategies. From a logistics standpoint, this is about as streamlined as expansions get. The double-sided sheets slide into the base box with zero fuss, and there’s no need to re-sort or sleeve anything. Setup time is unchanged—just swap in a new map and you’re ready. That said, Ark Nova remains a main-event title, clocking in at around 150 minutes per session. The expansion doesn’t alter that commitment, so it’s not a filler or a quick warm-up; it’s for nights when the group is ready to settle in and focus. The minimal footprint of the new content means you’re not adding to the physical wrangle, which is a relief for anyone managing multiple tables or tight storage. Teaching with Map Pack 1 is straightforward if your group already knows Ark Nova. The unique bonuses and tile interactions on each map are the only new wrinkles, so a quick pre-game walkthrough of the new features is all that’s needed. With nearly two decades of managing tables, I find that once the first placements are explained, the game runs itself—especially since Ark Nova’s parallel play structure keeps players focused on their own boards. This low-interaction dynamic means you can step away to troubleshoot other tables without derailing anyone’s experience. The room stays focused, with energy coming from individual discovery rather than table-wide negotiation or conflict. For hosts and teachers, it’s a low-maintenance way to keep a legacy title feeling fresh.