8.9
rating
Ludopedia
8.4
rating
BGG
Our Verdict
The essential upgrade for Mars lovers seeking fresh map challenges.
Highlights
- Epic new scenarios
- Incredible strategic variety
- Boosted replayability
- New game objectives
Keep in mind
- Requires base game
- New maps shift strategy
RECOMMENDED
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If you're already a master of terraforming, get ready to expand your horizons (literally)! Terraforming Mars: Hellas & Elysium is the first major expansion for the classic Mars game, featuring a double-sided board that completely shifts the dynamics of where you can build your civilization. Instead of the standard map, you'll have two epic scenarios to explore. First, we have Elysium, a region almost opposite the equator, with vast plains perfect for oceans in the north and mineral-rich soil in the south. Pro tip: if you manage to place a tile on Olympus Mons, the solar system's giant, you'll score three free cards! Then, there's the wild side of Hellas, featuring the massive south pole and the enormous seven-hex crater that practically begs to be filled with water. Building near the pole can yield incredible heat and water bonuses, but keep in mind that each map brings its own unique challenges. The expansion introduces new Milestones and Awards specific to each setting. You could aim to be the ultimate 'Polar Explorer' or focus on dominating waterfront properties in Elysium. It's the perfect dose of variety for those who have mastered the base game and crave new strategic challenges, new objectives, and maps that demand entirely different planning. It's exactly the upgrade your Mars collection needs to keep things fresh!
GALLERY
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In English
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Mechanics
Categories
Families
Publisher
FryxGames, Arclight Games, Ghenos Games, Intrafin Games, Kilogames, Korea Boardgames, Lautapelit.fi, Lavka Games, Maldito Games, MeepleBR, MINDOK, MIPL, Rebel Sp. z o.o., Reflexshop, Schwerkraft-Verlag, Siam Board Games, Spilbræt.dk, Stronghold Games, Surfin' Meeple China
Designer
Jacob Fryxelius
Artist
Isaac Fryxelius, Jacob Fryxelius
Can I play with only this expansion?
No, you absolutely need the Terraforming Mars base game to play.
What exactly changes in the game?
You get a new double-sided board with two different maps (Elysium and Hellas), plus new milestones and awards for each.
Is this game much harder than the original?
The complexity is similar, but the new maps require you to think differently about tile placement.
How many players can play?
1 to 5 players, following the same structure as the base game.
How long does a game last?
Typically between 90 to 120 minutes, depending on the number of players.