"zoo"

2021 · 1-4 Players · 90-150 min · Competitive / Engine-Building Strategy

Ark Nova earned its place near the top of the hobby by doing something rare: making a heavy strategy game that people actually want to play again immediately. The action card system creates a decision space that stays fresh across dozens of sessions, and the theme gives all that mechanical weight a purpose that resonates. Long play times and a steep first game are real costs of entry. For players willing to pay them, few games in recent memory deliver this much.

2020 · 1-5 Players · ~30-60 min · Competitive

New York Zoo is a warm, inviting puzzle game that makes polyomino tile placement feel truly delightful. The animal breeding mechanic adds a timing layer that elevates what could be a simple spatial puzzle into something with real tactical texture, and the race-to-fill-your-board win condition keeps every game tight and exciting. It won't satisfy players looking for heavy strategic depth, and the solo mode is functional rather than inspired, but as an accessible, beautiful game that welcomes newcomers while keeping experienced players engaged, it hits its mark.