Ark Nova

Ark Nova is a game about building a zoo, and it’s a good one. It’s got a lot of depth, with different ways to play and win. The goal is to build the most successful zoological establishment by creating enclosures, housing animals, and supporting conservation projects. The gameplay is strategic and requires a bit of forward thinking. It's a great game for those who love a good challenge and have a few hours to spare.

The rulebook is a bit intimidating at first, but I found it to be quite intuitive once I started playing. It’s definitely not a game for casual gamers, but for hardcore gamers, it's a real treat. You can choose to focus on attracting visitors, building up your conservation reputation, or finding a path between the extremes. The cards are gorgeous, and the components are high-quality. I really enjoy the thematic aspect of the game, and it's a great way to learn about different animals and conservation efforts around the world.

I do agree with some of the reviews that say the game can be a bit long. It took our group a couple of hours to get through the first game, and we made a few mistakes along the way. But once we got the hang of it, we were hooked. There are a lot of options for different strategies, and the game always feels fresh. It’s definitely worth the effort to learn the rules.

I've played it several times now with different groups of people, and everyone has enjoyed it. It’s a great game to play with friends or family who are into strategy games. It’s also a good choice for those who love animals and conservation.

Overall, I highly recommend Ark Nova. It’s a complex and challenging game, but it's also incredibly rewarding. It’s a game that will keep you coming back for more, and I think it's one of the best board games out there.