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Terraforming Mars: Prelude 2
Explore new Prelude cards, tags and combinations with other expansions.
Explore new Prelude cards, tags and combinations with other expansions.
Terraforming Mars: Prelude 2 expands the original Prelude system with cards that can have ongoing effects and actions rather than only one-time setup bonuses. It is especially designed to connect Prelude with Venus Next, Colonies and Turmoil.
What Prelude 2 contains
- 25 Prelude cards
- 24 project cards
- 5 corporation cards
- Rules for the new Prelude interactions
How Prelude 2 differs from Prelude
The original Prelude is primarily about accelerated setup. Prelude 2 keeps that idea but adds Prelude cards with actions and ongoing effects that can continue to matter after the opening.
Cross-expansion cards
Much of Prelude 2 is built around Venus Next, Colonies and Turmoil. Some cards reference those systems directly, including Venus tags/terraforming, colony mechanics and political systems.
Can you use Prelude 2 without Venus, Colonies or Turmoil?
Yes, partially. The box contains corporations and Prelude cards that work without those three expansions, while other cards require one or more of them. Use only the cards supported by the expansion mix you actually have.
Do you need the original Prelude?
Yes. Publisher/distributor product information lists both Terraforming Mars and Prelude as requirements.
Why add Prelude 2?
Prelude 2 makes the opening system more integrated with a large Terraforming Mars collection. It is particularly useful when Prelude is already standard at your table and you also play with Venus Next, Colonies or Turmoil.
Related guides
Sources
Expansion contents checked September 2026.