Frank's Zoo
- Designer Doris Matthäus , Frank Nestel
- Publisher Doris & Frank , Arch Games , Enigma (Bergsala Enigma) , HeidelBÄR Games , MINDOK
- Illustration Doris Matthäus , Frank Nestel
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Start for freeWhat to Expect
In Frank's Zoo, players compete over several hands to be the first to discard all their cards by playing animal cards that can outmatch others. The game offers variants with fixed or changing partners, combining hand management with team play. Players score points by discarding all cards and collecting lions and hedgehogs, all illustrated with colorful animal art.
Who Is This Game For?
Frank's Zoo is designed for experienced players aged 10 and up who enjoy tactical card games with team elements. With a playtime around 60 minutes and accommodating 3 to 7 players, it suits medium-sized groups. Some familiarity with hand management games is beneficial but not required.
How It Works
Players manage hands of cards featuring animals and use ladder climbing to outplay previous cards by playing more cards of the same animal or equal cards of animals that can scare others away. The team-based variant includes changing partners, adding dynamic interaction. The goal is to discard all cards and score points through specific animals.
What Makes It Special
Frank's Zoo was recommended for the 2000 Spiel des Jahres and nominated for the 1999 Meeples Choice Award. Designed by Doris Matthäus and Frank Nestel, it uniquely combines hand management, ladder climbing, and team play in an animal-themed card game.
Awards
2000
- 2000 Fairplay À la carte Runner-up — Nominated
- 1999 Meeples Choice Award — Nominated
Pro
- Team-based gameplay with changing partners adds variety
- Combines hand management and ladder climbing mechanics
- Recommended Spiel des Jahres 2000
- About 60 minutes playtime fits a typical game night
Contra
- Not suitable for solo play (3-7 players required)
- Requires some experience with hand management mechanics
- Recommended for ages 10 and up, not for young children
Setting & Atmosphäre
The game centers around a zoo with colorfully illustrated animals competing to outmatch each other. Animal cards represent species like lions and hedgehogs in a playful contest.
Tipp für Einsteiger
Focus on managing your cards wisely and understanding the animal hierarchy before exploring complex tactics.
Häufige Fragen
Can I play this solo?
Frank's Zoo requires 3 to 7 players and is not designed for solo play.
How long does a game really take?
A typical game lasts about 60 minutes, suitable for a game night.
What prior experience do I need?
Basic knowledge of hand management and tactical card games helps.
How does this compare to similar games?
Frank's Zoo combines ladder climbing with team play and changing partners, setting it apart from games like The Great Dalmuti.
Is this suitable for families?
Recommended for ages 10 and up, more suited to experienced players than very young children.
What mechanic makes it special?
The blend of hand management, ladder climbing, and team-based mechanics defines Frank's Zoo.
Fazit
Frank's Zoo is recommended for players seeking tactical card games with team dynamics and variable partnerships. Its duration and complexity make it a fitting choice for experienced groups of three or more.
