Hidden Ark (2023) Board Game

Hidden Ark is a board game released in 2023, designed by Angela Rizza and illustrated by All Or None Games. The game falls under the categories of Animals, Environmental, Nautical, and Transportation, and includes mechanisms such as Grid Movement, Open Drafting, and Set Collection. The game is designed for 1-4 players, with a runtime of 60-90 minutes and is suitable for players aged 10 and above.

Game Components of Hidden Ark

Game Board: A beautifully illustrated board depicting various aquatic environments.

Player Tokens: Representing the different science teams.

Fish Species Cards: Detailing the endangered fish and their needs.

Resource Tokens: For managing the team’s efforts and resources.

Action Cards: Allowing players to take specific actions to rescue the fish.

Illustrated Manual: Guiding players through the game mechanics.

How To Setup Hidden Ark

To set up Hidden Ark, first, place the game board in the middle of the playing area. Each player selects a science team token and places it on the starting point on the board. Shuffle and deal the fish species cards, ensuring each player has a set of cards to work with. Distribute resource tokens and action cards according to the player count. Finally, read through the illustrated manual to understand the initial game state and objectives.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Resource Management: Players must manage their resources to undertake rescue operations.

Action Points: Players use action points to perform various tasks such as researching, rescuing, and conserving fish species.

Cooperative Play: Players can work together or compete to achieve the best outcomes for the endangered fish.

Objective: The primary goal is to rescue and conserve as many endangered fish species as possible.

Player Experience

Playing Hidden Ark feels like a real mission to save endangered species. The game is engaging and educational, as players learn about different fish species and the challenges they face. The beautiful illustrations and clear gameplay mechanics make it an enjoyable experience for both casual and experienced board game players.

Pros

Educational: Teaches players about endangered fish species and conservation efforts.

Engaging: Combines strategy with a compelling narrative of saving endangered species.

Beautiful Illustrations: The game features stunning artwork that enhances the gameplay experience.

Variable Player Powers: Each science team has unique abilities, adding replayability.

Cons

Complexity: May be overwhelming for very new board game players due to the multiple mechanics and resources.

Length: Games can be on the longer side, depending on the number of players and their experience.

Personal Thoughts on Hidden Ark

Hidden Ark is perfect for those who enjoy strategy board games with a strong thematic focus. It is ideal for players who appreciate educational content and are passionate about environmental conservation. The game is suitable for families and groups looking for a cooperative or competitive experience that is both fun and meaningful. However, it may not be the best fit for very casual players or those seeking a quick, simple game.

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