Ark Nova
Description
Design and manage the largest, most modern and sustainable zoo in the world! Ark Nova is the sensation of the new wave of highly complex Eurogames, combining engine building with an innovative action selection mechanic. Your goal is to build a world-renowned zoo, completing conservation projects and earning attractiveness points. What sets Ark Nova apart is its system of 5 action cards numbered 1 to 5. On your turn, you play an action card and execute it; The power of that action is determined by its position (its slot) on your board. After use, the card moves to position 1 and the rest slide. This creates a tactical puzzle where you must plan not only this turn's action, but also how powerful the following turns' action will be. With 255 cards of animals, sponsors and conservation projects, the replayability is overwhelming. The tension comes from two markers moving in opposite directions: the appeal of the zoo and the conservation points. The game ends when these markers cross each other. If you're looking for a deep Eurogame with high card asymmetry, clever action management, and an attractive, contemporary theme (wildlife conservation), Ark Nova is the acquisition that will define your year. It is a strategic challenge that rewards long-term planning. Build your ark!
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How to play
Players start with an empty zoo and a hand of cards. On your turn, you choose one of your 5 action cards (Build, Play Animal/Sponsor, Associates, Cards, Conservation). The strength of the action (1 to 5) determines its power and bonuses. After using an action, the card is moved to position 1. The player uses resources (money, reputation icons, partner cubes) to build enclosures and play animal cards, which have habitat requirements. The game ends when a player's Attractiveness (VP) and Conservation markers cross on the scoring track. The player with the largest score difference between these tracks wins.
Why you might like it
The system of 5 sliding action cards is an innovative and addictive mechanism, High replayability thanks to the 255 project and animal cards, The conservation theme feels fresh and well integrated. If you enjoy complex eurogames with innovative systems, high replayability and a well-integrated modern theme, Ark Nova offers a very satisfying strategic experience.
What to keep in mind
The duration is long (2.5 hours+) and with considerable downtime for some, It is a victory point game, which can be dry for thematic players, The interaction is very low (almost a Multi-Solitaire)