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Ark Nova

Plan and build a modern, scientifically managed zoo to support conservation projects in an acclaimed strategy board game.

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Release
June 20, 2025
1 year and 42 days ago
Steam Reviews
Very Positive866 reviews94.2%

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About the Game

Design a modern zoo to help animals thrive as you support conservation projects around the world.

Since its release in 2021, tabletop board game Ark Nova from designer Mathias Wigge has received numerous awards around the world. Now a new digital adaptation brings the strategy and science of the beloved board game to players everywhere!

In Ark Nova, you will plan and design a modern, scientifically managed zoo. With the ultimate goal of owning the most successful zoological establishment, you will build enclosures, accommodate animals, and support conservation projects all over the world. Specialists and unique buildings will help you in achieving this goal.

At the heart of Ark Nova are 255 cards featuring animals, specialists, unique enclosures, and conservation projects, each with a particular ability. Use them to increase the appeal and scientific reputation of your zoo and to collect conservation points. Each player has a set of action cards, which you will use and upgrade to carry out your plans.

Each player has a set of five action cards to manage their gameplay, and the power of an action is determined by the slot the card currently occupies. The cards are:

  • BUILD: Allows you to build standard or special enclosures, kiosks, and pavilions.

  • ANIMALS: Allows you to accommodate animals in your zoo.

  • CARDS: Allows you to gain new zoo cards (animals, sponsors, and conservation project cards).

  • ASSOCIATION: Allows your association workers to carry out different tasks.

  • SPONSORS: Allows you to play a sponsor card in your zoo or to raise money.

With high replayability and rich components, Ark Nova provides a remarkable gaming experience that will bring the game to the table again and again.

  • Collect all 24 Achievements!

  • Play Solo against the AI, Online, or on your couch with Pass and Play!

  • Complete 13 strategic Challenges!