Ark Nova Zoo Map Packs Guide: Map Pack 1 & Map Pack 2
Ark Nova’s Zoo Map Packs change your starting geography rather than adding a large rules system. As of September 2026, Capstone sells Zoo Map Pack 1 and Zoo Map Pack 2.
Zoo Map Pack 1
Map Pack 1 contains two double-sided zoo maps, giving you four playable sides built around two named map concepts:
- Map #9: Geographical Zoo
- Map #10: Rescue Station
Each side introduces its own layout and map-specific mechanics.
Geographical Zoo
The Geographical Zoo divides parts of the map by continent. Playing animals into matching continent areas can unlock map bonuses, so enclosure placement and animal origin become more closely linked.
Rescue Station
The Rescue Station side uses a different map-specific rules package and changes how you evaluate enclosure placement and timing.
Zoo Map Pack 2
Map Pack 2 contains five new zoo-map layouts. Capstone states that these maps introduce new keywords and Animal Abilities.
The pack includes the 2024 World Series of Board Gaming Tournament Map and a reference guide explaining the new map functions.
Marine Worlds compatibility
Capstone explicitly states that the Map Pack 2 maps are compatible with Ark Nova: Marine Worlds.
Do the map packs require Ark Nova?
Yes. Both are map products for the Ark Nova base game, not standalone games.
Which map pack should you get first?
Map Pack 1 is the smaller, simpler variety pack. Map Pack 2 offers more layouts and newer map-specific vocabulary, so it suits groups that already rotate through Ark Nova’s standard maps regularly.
Related Ark Nova guides
Publisher sources
Map-pack line checked September 2026.