Running your own zoo
Ark Nova is a digital version of a strategy board game about designing a modern, scientifically managed zoo. You build enclosures, house animals, and support conservation projects around the world. The aim is to end up with the most successful zoological establishment by raising your zoo's appeal and scientific reputation while collecting conservation points. The game draws on a pool of 255 cards covering animals, specialists, unique enclosures, sponsors, and conservation projects, each with its own ability. Specialists and unique buildings give you extra ways to reach your goals.
How the action cards work
Your whole turn structure runs on five action cards: BUILD, ANIMALS, CARDS, ASSOCIATION, and SPONSORS. BUILD puts down standard or special enclosures, kiosks, and pavilions. ANIMALS places animals into the enclosures you have ready. CARDS adds new zoo cards to your hand, including animals, sponsors, and conservation project cards. ASSOCIATION puts your association workers to use on different tasks. SPONSORS either plays a sponsor card into your zoo or raises money. The strength of each action depends on which slot its card currently occupies, so part of the game is moving cards around to fire your key actions at full power.
Playing with your group
You can play solo against the AI, take on other players online, or sit together on one couch with Pass and Play. Online matches support asynchronous multiplayer, so a group does not need to be online at the same time to keep a game moving. There is a tutorial on hand if the rules are new to you. Beyond the main game, there are 13 challenges to work through and 24 achievements to collect.