Planet Zoo 2 Review

Planet Zoo 2 is a sequel to the popular series of zoo-building simulation games, Frontier's Planet Zoo. This new release puts an even bigger emphasis on conservation, as it features real-life endangered species and aims to protect them. While many aspects of the game remain familiar, such as building enclosures, hiring staff, and caring for animals, there are still improvements and new features.

One of the most significant additions is the inclusion of aviaries and aquariums, which allow for a greater level of control over the shape, look, and depth of exhibits. This system not only offers fine control but also enables players to share aquatic habitats without issues posed by incompatible species. The game also features over 130 creatures from various sizes, some of which are exhibit-based or eligible to be released into the wild.

The new features in Planet Zoo 2 bring a fresh level of detail and realism to the simulation. For instance, guests can realistically complain about ticket prices if they feel they are not getting their money's worth, leading to an engaging challenge. The management screen also has more components to consider, such as sustainability ratings based on power generators and wastebins installed.

The customization options have expanded across the board, with fully-modeled interiors for buildings where guests and staff can interact. Additionally, there is a campaign mode that serves as an extended tutorial, which is enjoyable and helpful for learning the game's mechanics. The inclusion of wildlife reserves, which are separate maps where players paint biomes and increase their rating by introducing native species, adds another layer of depth to the game.

While some aspects of the game, such as the sustainability rating and other reputation-building components, could be more fleshed out, Planet Zoo 2 offers a compelling economic simulation experience for both newcomers and seasoned fans of the series.