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Zoo Vadis

Zoo Vadis

3-7
Players
40
Minutes
10+
Age
2023
Published

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What to Expect

In Zoo Vadis, you play as animals running the zoo, competing for spots in the star exhibit through clever negotiation, bribery, and unique abilities. Only the animal with the most laurels from fans and rivals becomes the zoo mascot. The game ends as soon as the star exhibit is full, making each round dynamic and engaging.

Who Is This Game For?

Designed for players aged 10 and up, Zoo Vadis suits those who enjoy tactical negotiation and political maneuvering. With a playtime of about 40 minutes, it fits well into game nights as a medium-weight game. It requires 3 to 7 players and some experience with negotiation games.

How It Works

Zoo Vadis uses mechanics like Negotiation, Bribery, and Hidden Victory Points. Players move their animal figures on a point-to-point board and use once-per-game special abilities to gain support. Through trading and bribery, they influence the zoo's political landscape to secure majority support in the star exhibit and earn laurels.

Bribery Hidden Victory Points Negotiation Once-Per-Game Abilities Point to Point Movement Trading

What Makes It Special

Designed by Reiner Knizia, Zoo Vadis is an evolution of his classic negotiation game Quo Vadis?. It was nominated in 2023 for the Board Game Quest Awards Best Reprint/Reimplementation category. The game expands to 7 players and introduces asymmetric animal abilities, setting it apart from typical negotiation games.

Awards

  • 2023 Board Game Quest Awards Best Reprint/Reimplementation — Nominated

Pro

  • Core mechanics focus on negotiation and political intrigue
  • Asymmetric animal abilities add tactical depth
  • Supports 3 to 7 players
  • About 40 minutes playtime suitable for game nights

Contra

  • Requires minimum of 3 players, no solo mode
  • Needs experience with negotiation games
  • Too complex for younger children under 10

Setting & Atmosphäre

The game is set in a zoo governed by anthropomorphic animals, where political battles determine the zoo mascot through gaining fame and influence among visitors.

Tipp für Einsteiger

Focus on understanding your animal's special abilities and use negotiation strategically to improve your position in the zoo.

Häufige Fragen

Can I play this solo?

Zoo Vadis requires at least 3 players and does not support solo play.

How long does a game really take?

A typical Zoo Vadis game lasts about 40 minutes, making it a compact choice for game nights.

What prior experience do I need?

The game is aimed at experienced players familiar with negotiation and political games.

How does this compare to similar games?

Zoo Vadis expands on Reiner Knizia's Quo Vadis? by adding new mechanics, accommodating up to 7 players, and featuring asymmetric animal abilities.

Is this suitable for families?

Due to its complexity and age recommendation of 10+, it's better suited for experienced players than for families with young children.

What mechanic makes it special?

The blend of Negotiation, Bribery, and Hidden Victory Points creates a dynamic and tactical gameplay experience.

Fazit

Zoo Vadis offers a compact yet rich negotiation experience with political intrigue. Its flexible player count up to 7 makes it ideal for groups seeking strategic, fast-paced sessions.