Tactical question ArkNova: science library

[dominicelliott]

Like many other sponsor cards, science library has an immediate and a continuing effect. I’ve been thinking about which I should prioritize. That is, is it better to hold the cards and play it when I already have a lot of science tags (banking the appeal) or is it better to get it out early for the cash it will provide? I’m inclined to view the appeal as a “catch up” bonus to balance the card if it is drawn late, but I was wondering if anyone had any thoughts on that (acknowledging, ofc, that it will be situational).

[Calmon70]

Like many other sponsor cards, science library has an immediate and a continuing effect. I’ve been thinking about which I should prioritize. That is, is it better to hold the cards and play it when I already have a lot of science tags (banking the appeal) or is it better to get it out early for the cash it will provide? I’m inclined to view the appeal as a “catch up” bonus to balance the card if it is drawn late, but I was wondering if anyone had any thoughts on that (acknowledging, ofc, that it will be situational).

This is the Ark Nova Forum: https://boardgamearena.com/forum/viewforum.php?f=722

You should ask here

[pjt33]

As a general rule I would prioritise the cash. Cash converts to points at about 2 cash to 1 appeal, so you're not losing much by playing it early and you're gaining the cash from your opponents' subsequent research icons. In fact, I consider first turn Science Library to be a strong start.

[ArtEntre]

2 money to 1 appeal is on the good end of the appeal/money ratio. If I don't expect my opponent(s) to be playing other science immediately but i know i will, I might hold off on it for the extra appeal. But that's a narrow set of conditions (and pretty much limited to 2p), so i usually play it at the first opportunity and am happy with whatever appeal i get now and money i get later.

[demyurge]

As a general rule I would prioritise the cash. Cash converts to points at about 2 cash to 1 appeal, so you're not losing much by playing it early and you're gaining the cash from your opponents' subsequent research icons. In fact, I consider first turn Science Library to be a strong start.

Are you sure about that 2 for 1? I've heard 3 for 1 before, which seems more in line with how animals are priced taking enclosures into account. Unless you're also putting a value on the tags animals give you for projects.