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Ark Nova

PC (Microsoft Windows), Mac • 2025

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Quick resume

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

Global score

94/100

Genres

Strategy, Card & Board Game

Pros

  • Faithful and polished digital adaptation
  • Challenging and smart ai
  • High replayability with challenges and events
  • Intuitive ui with helpful automation
  • Engaging strategic gameplay

Cons

  • Lack of ranked matchmaking and multiplayer population
  • Ui can be cluttered and hard to navigate at first
  • Some bugs and performance issues reported
  • No current expansions included
  • Steep learning curve for new players

Motivations

  • Autonomy
    4

    "Players have freedom to choose actions, cards, and strategies with multiple options and no forced routines."

  • Competence
    4

    "The game offers challenging AI and complex strategic decisions requiring skill and planning."

  • Competition
    2

    "Includes multiplayer modes and leaderboards, but also supports solo play and casual matches without ranked modes."

  • Continuation
    4

    "High replayability with many hours logged, challenges, and seasonal events encourage habitual play."

  • Cooperation
    -3

    "Primarily competitive or solo play with limited direct cooperation between players."

  • Creativity
    3

    "Players customize their zoo layouts and card combinations, enabling creative strategic expression."

  • Domination
    -4

    "Interactions are balanced and respectful; no evidence of power imposition or trash talk."

  • Escapism
    4

    "Players use the game as a complex, immersive distraction from real life with engaging thematic content."

  • Expectation
    -4

    "Players engage voluntarily out of interest and enjoyment rather than obligation or pressure."

  • Experimenting
    4

    "High variability in cards and strategies encourages players to try new approaches and tactics."

  • Exploration
    2

    "Different maps and scenarios provide some novelty, though the core environment is familiar."

  • Expression
    3

    "Players personalize their zoos and strategies, though cosmetic customization is limited."

  • Fantasy
    3

    "Thematic zoo building with animals and conservation projects offers an imaginative experience."

  • Fellowship
    1

    "Some social features like chat and multiplayer exist, but many play solo or asynchronously."

  • Growth
    4

    "Players learn complex rules, improve strategies, and develop skills over many hours."

  • Health
    -5

    "Sedentary digital board game with no physical activity involved."

  • Idle
    -3

    "Requires focused attention and strategic thinking; not suited for casual background play."

  • Intimacy
    -3

    "Limited social interaction mostly surface-level; no evidence of close emotional connections."

  • Leadership
    -4

    "No leadership or management roles; players act independently or competitively."

  • Progression
    4

    "Players accumulate cards, upgrades, and points, progressing through complex game states."

  • Relaxation
    3

    "Despite challenge, the game offers a satisfying flow and engaging pacing for many players."

  • Sensation
    2

    "Visuals and sounds are pleasant but not intense; moderate sensory stimulation."

  • Status
    2

    "Leaderboards and achievements provide recognition, though many play casually without social evaluation."

  • Story
    1

    "Thematic elements exist but no strong narrative or plot-driven immersion."

  • Strategy
    5

    "Core gameplay revolves around deep strategic planning, resource management, and problem solving."

  • Thrill
    2

    "Some tension from competition and timing, but overall controlled and thoughtful gameplay."

  • Value
    4

    "Players report high enjoyment and replay value relative to time and cost invested."

  • Violence
    -5

    "Non-violent gameplay focused on building and management rather than combat or destruction."

  • Survival
    1

    "Some resource management and risk elements, but low threat and failure consequences."

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    Last update: 06/03/2026