Sanctuary
- Players
- 1-5
- Best withThe player count this game plays best at.
- 2 players
- Play timeHow long a full game runs once everyone knows the rules.
- 100 min
- AgeThe minimum age printed by the publisher.
- 12+
- ComplexityHow demanding the rules are, from 1 (very light) to 5 (very heavy).
- 2.8 / 5
- Year
- 2025
About the game
Sanctuary tasks you with designing a modern, scientifically-managed zoo using a supply of 135 unique animal, building, and project tiles. Four action cards manage your turns, with their power shifting based on which slot they currently occupy, letting you play projects or animals from forest, rock, or water habitats. As a streamlined take on its acclaimed predecessor Ark Nova, Sanctuary keeps the satisfying puzzle of conservation and zoo-building while simplifying several mechanisms for a smoother, more elegant experience. It works equally well solo or with up to five players.
Hobbli's Notes
Hobbli's editorial team is excited by how well Sanctuary distills the beloved Ark Nova formula into something a bit lighter without losing its strategic bite. The rotating action-card power slots add a clever tactical wrinkle that keeps decisions fresh each turn. Fans of the original may miss some of its added complexity, but newcomers will likely find this the friendlier on-ramp. It's a strong pick for tables that want a modern zoo-building strategy game with real depth.
What we like
- Streamlined, more accessible take on the acclaimed Ark Nova design.
- Satisfying puzzle of combining animals, buildings, and projects.
- Works well as both a solo game and a multiplayer experience.
- Rotating action-card slots add meaningful tactical depth.
Keep in mind
- Fans of Ark Nova's added complexity may find this version thinner.
- Tile draws introduce some luck into available options each turn.
- Still requires an upfront rules explanation despite being simplified.
Who it's for
Great for strategy-minded teens and adults (12+) who enjoy engine-building tile games, playing solo or with up to five.
