Ark Nova
- Designer Mathias Wigge
- Publisher Feuerland Spiele , Capstone Games , CMON Global Limited , Cranio Creations , Game Harbor
- Illustration Steffen Bieker , Loïc Billiau , Dennis Lohausen
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Start for freeWhat to Expect
You plan and design a modern, scientifically managed zoo: build enclosures, accommodate animals, and support conservation projects worldwide. The game centers on animal, sponsor and conservation cards plus specialist buildings that grant special abilities. Each player manages five action cards whose power depends on their slot. The goal is to increase appeal and scientific reputation to collect conservation points.
Who Is This Game For?
Aimed at hobby/experienced players: Ark Nova supports solo play (1–4 players) and is recommended for ages 14+. With a playtime around 150 minutes it’s an extended, strategic experience rather than a light family game.
How It Works
Core mechanics are card-driven actions and engine-building: gain cards (Animals, Sponsors, Conservation Projects), build enclosures and special buildings, and place animals. Hand Management and Contracts drive long-term goals, while Grid/Hexagon placement affects your zoo tableau. The five action cards (Cards, Build, Animals, Association, Sponsors) vary in strength by position, rewarding planning and engine synergy.
What Makes It Special
Designed by Mathias Wigge with art by Loïc Billiau and Dennis Lohausen. Ark Nova won Golden Geek Heavy Game of the Year (2021) and the Meeples Choice Award (2021). It blends Card Game mechanics, Grid Coverage and End Game Bonuses into a unique zoo-focused engine-builder.
Awards
2023
2021
- 2022 Board Game Quest Awards Best Strategy/Euro Game — Nominated
- 2022 Niederländischer Spielepreis - Expertenspiel — Winner
- 2021 Meeples Choice Award — Winner
Pro
- Deep engine-building with card-driven core
- Includes solo mode (1–4 players)
- Strong thematic integration of zoo and conservation
- Awarded Golden Geek Heavy Game of the Year (2021)
Contra
- Long playtime (~150 minutes) — evening-length
- Higher learning curve for new players
- Complexity requires several plays to master
Setting & Atmosphäre
You run modern zoological parks and global conservation projects, combining animal management, sponsors and scientific reputation. This setting is taken from the publisher description and Wikipedia.
Tipp für Einsteiger
Focus first on the main actions (Cards, Build, Animals) and observe how action-slot order changes their power before attempting advanced combos.
Häufige Fragen
Can I play this solo?
Yes. Ark Nova supports 1–4 players and thus includes a solo option.
How long does a game really take?
Official duration is about 150 minutes; expect a longer session for first plays including setup and rule explanation.
What prior experience do I need?
Best for experienced hobby gamers; familiarity with card-driven or engine-building games helps.
How does this compare to similar games?
Ark Nova combines card-driven engine-building with grid/hex placement and end-game bonuses, tying theme and mechanics tightly together.
Is this suitable for families?
Due to complexity and duration it’s more suitable for older or experienced family members; minimum age is 14.
What mechanic makes it special?
The interplay of Card-Driven actions, Hand Management and Grid/Hexagon placement defines its gameplay.
Fazit
Recommended for players who enjoy deep, thematic euro-style engine-building games; not suited for short casual sessions. Great choice for groups that can commit to ~150 minutes and strategic depth.
