Planet Zoo 2 gives you a lot of fine control over the shape, look, and in the case of aquariums, even depth of an exhibit.
Economically, Planet Zoo 2 presents a genuine challenge. While sandbox mode offers the option to simplify gameplay by disabling certain features, the core game requires strategic management to maintain financial stability. Unlike the ease of profit in Planet Coaster 2, where minimal effort yields unlimited funds, Planet Zoo 2 demands careful planning and attention to guest satisfaction and pricing. The game involves managing various staff types and catering to complex guest and animal needs, offering depth before delving into its breeding and conservation systems.
The sequel also expands customization, allowing players to design detailed interiors for buildings and interact with modular elements like gift shops and restaurants. This level of detail enhances gameplay, though players can also download creations from the Steam Workshop for added convenience. Meanwhile, the campaign mode serves as an extended tutorial, introducing players to the new tools and features. Though the narrative is somewhat simplistic, focusing on exposing corporate environmental exploitation, it provides a serviceable backdrop for the game.
A new aspect of Planet Zoo 2 is the wildlife reserves, where players manage separate maps by painting biomes and increasing ratings through plant introduction and species re-wilding. While driving through these reserves and photographing animals in their natural habitats is enjoyable, the management aspects feel superficial. Removing invasive species is as simple as clicking them away, lacking the depth of hiring specialists for ecosystem maintenance. Nevertheless, the game excels in offering nature brushes for diverse plant customization, though water tools lack similar dynamism, especially when compared to the fluid water features in Jurassic World Evolution 3.
The possibilities for customization have also expanded quite a bit in that nearly all buildings now have fully-modeled interiors that guests and staff can interact with.
Despite some areas needing refinement, Planet Zoo 2 impresses with its visual enhancements and expanded mechanics. It successfully combines strategic management with creative freedom, offering a compelling experience for both conservation enthusiasts and simulation fans. The game stands as a vibrant sequel, building on its foundation with thoughtful improvements and ambitious goals for ecological awareness.
Article Source: www.ign.com
