Should I Play Ark Nova?
Players: 1 – 4 players | Game Duration 90 – 150 mins |
Min. Age 14+ | Game complexity: EASY Genre: Animals, Economy / Industry, Environmental
Solo game mode: Yes | Co-op: No |
Online Version: Yes
Hate Rulebooks? Check out our condensed How to Play Ark Nova Rules Guide
What is Ark Nova about?
‘Ark Nova’ is a standout title with intricate gameplay and engaging theme. ‘Ark Nova’ is a strategic game where players take on the role of managing a modern, scientifically managed zoo.
Game Mechanics and Design
‘Ark Nova’ is designed for 1 to 4 players and typically takes around 90 to 150 minutes to play. The game revolves around creating and managing a zoo, with players competing to build the most successful and appealing park.
-
Action Selection: Players choose from a set of five actions, each represented by a card. The power of these actions depends on their position on the player’s board, creating a dynamic system where players must plan their moves carefully.
-
Hand Management: Throughout the game, players draw and play cards that represent animals, sponsors, and various other zoo-related elements. Managing these cards effectively is crucial for success.
-
Tile Placement: Players build enclosures and other zoo facilities by placing tiles on their personal board. Efficient use of space and strategic tile placement are essential.
-
Conservation Projects: Players can participate in various conservation projects, contributing to global efforts and earning points. Balancing these projects with the needs of the zoo adds a layer of strategic depth.
-
Income and Appeal: Players must manage their zoo’s income and appeal, balancing the need for financial stability with the desire to attract visitors and earn points.
What Makes ‘Ark Nova’ Fun?
‘Ark Nova’ combines several elements that make it a deeply engaging and satisfying experience:
-
Strategic Depth: The game’s mechanics require careful planning and foresight. Every decision, from which animals to house to which conservation projects to support, impacts your overall strategy.
-
Thematic Immersion: The theme of building and managing a zoo is brought to life through beautiful artwork and detailed cards. Each element feels authentic and contributes to the overall immersion.
-
Replayability: With a vast array of cards and multiple paths to victory, ‘Ark Nova’ offers immense replayability. Each game feels fresh, with new challenges and opportunities.
-
Solo and Multiplayer Modes: ‘Ark Nova’ includes a solo mode, allowing players to enjoy the game on their own. The multiplayer experience is equally rewarding, with competitive and cooperative elements that keep everyone engaged.
-
Balanced Complexity: While ‘Ark Nova’ is a complex game, it is designed in a way that gradually introduces players to its mechanics. This balance makes it accessible to both experienced gamers and those willing to invest the time to learn.
Who Will Enjoy ‘Ark Nova’?
‘Ark Nova’ is ideal for players who enjoy:
-
Strategic Planning: If you love games that require careful thought and long-term strategy, ‘Ark Nova’ will be a perfect fit. The interplay between different mechanics demands a high level of strategic thinking.
-
Thematic Games: Fans of thematic games will appreciate the detailed and immersive zoo-building experience. The theme is woven seamlessly into the gameplay, making every action feel meaningful.
-
Complex Board Games: For those who enjoy games with depth and complexity, ‘Ark Nova’ provides a rich and rewarding experience. The learning curve is steep, but the payoff is well worth it.
-
Solo Play: If you often find yourself playing games solo, ‘Ark Nova’ offers a satisfying single-player mode that captures the essence of the multiplayer experience.
-
Replayability: If you value games that offer a different experience each time you play, ‘Ark Nova’ will keep you coming back for more. The variety of cards and strategies ensures that no two games are the same.
What do Ark Nova players say about the game?
- Engaging and Consuming: highly entertaining and absorbing, often taking up significant amounts of their time.
- Steep Learning Curve: significant learning curve, but most feel it’s worth the effort.
- Solo Play: The solo mode is well-designed and enjoyable, with a clear system for managing turns.
- Strategic Depth: The game is praised for its strategic and card management aspects, with high replayability due to different maps and animals.
- Complexity: While complex and long, it’s enjoyable for those who like in-depth strategy games.
- Quality Design: The game’s design is well-researched and immersive, especially appreciated by those with an interest in zoology.
- Expansion Integration: Expansions like ‘Marine Worlds’ are well-received, adding diversity and new tactics without feeling forced.
Rules
Condensed How to Play Ark Nova Rules Guide for rulebook haters
Where to play Ark Nova online?
Ark Nova Videos
Awards Won by Ark Nova
2023 Gra Roku Expert Game of the Year Nominee
2023 As d’Or – Jeu de l’Année Expert Winner
2023 As d’Or – Jeu de l’Année Expert Nominee
2023 American Tabletop Complex Games Nominee
2022 Tric Trac Nominee
2022 Tric Trac Expert Nominee
2022 Tric Trac d’Or Expert
2022 Tric Trac d’Or
2022 Swiss Gamers Award Winner
2022 Swiss Gamers Award Nominee
2022 Nederlandse Spellenprijs Best Expert Game Winner
2022 Nederlandse Spellenprijs Best Expert Game Nominee
2022 MinD-Spielepreis Complex Game Winner
2022 MinD-Spielepreis Complex Game Nominee
2022 Kennerspiel des Jahres Recommended
2022 JUG Adult Game of the Year Winner
2022 JUG Adult Game of the Year Finalist
2022 Jogo do Ano Nominee
2022 Japan Boardgame Prize Voters’ Selection Winner
2022 Japan Boardgame Prize Voters’ Selection Nominee
2022 International Gamers Award Two-player Winner
2022 International Gamers Award Two-player Nominee
2022 International Gamers Award Solo Nominee
2022 International Gamers Award Multi-player Nominee
2022 Guldbrikken Best Expert Game Winner
2022 Goblin Magnifico Nominee
2022 Dragon Awards Best Science Fiction or Fantasy Board Game Nominee
2022 Deutscher Spiele Preis Best Family/Adult Game Winner
2022 Bulgarian Board Game Awards Expert Game of the Year Nominee
2022 Board Game Quest Awards Game of the Year Nominee
2022 Board Game Quest Awards Best Strategy/Euro Game Winner
2022 Board Game Quest Awards Best Strategy/Euro Game Nominee
2021 Golden Geek Heavy Game of the Year Winner
2021 Golden Geek Heavy Game of the Year Nominee
2021 Golden Geek Best Solo Board Game Nominee
