Tabletop board game Ark Nova has received a digital adaptation courtesy of Dire Wolf (Clank!), and it’s out now on Steam Early Access ($22.99).
Designer Mathias Wigge and publisher Fueuerland Spiele took the tabletop gaming world by storm in 2021 with the release of Ark Nova.
In Ark Nova, players compete to have the most profitable and ecological zoo. Players take turns using their action cards to build habitats, place animals, make deals and partnerships, and develop research programs.
The heavy strategy game combines polyomino grids as each player expands their own zoo board with exhibits and facilities, alongside hand and resource management. The game also features over 200 cards of animals, specialists, and conservation projects. Only by balancing profits with conservation can players come out on top.
The digital version has been adapted by Dire Wolf, who have successfully brought beloved board games such as Everdell, Root, and Dune: Imperium into the digital world.
“By participating in Early Access as a player, your direct feedback helps us improve everything from UX accessibility and feel to featured game modes to AI behavior by letting us know what to focus on,” states the Early Access page on Steam. “It’s incredibly helpful for us to learn from real players discovering the game, letting us know what comes naturally and where you might struggle; your guidance helps us better target our efforts as we work towards release.”
Ark Nova is expected to remain in Early Access for several months, releasing in early 2025.
