Planet Zoo
Casual
Simulation
Strategy
Single-player
Steam Achievements
Steam Trading Cards
Steam Workshop
Steam Cloud
HDR available
Family Sharing

Build a world for wildlife in Planet Zoo. From the developers of Planet Coaster and Zoo Tycoon comes the ultimate zoo sim. Construct detailed habitats, manage your zoo, and meet authentic living animals who think, feel and explore the world you create around them.

Developers: Frontier Developments
Publishers: Frontier Developments
Release Date: Nov 5, 2019
Price (USD): $44.99
Current Players: 1.9k

Links:  Steam Store  SteamDB

Very Positive(91%)
creative freedom
realistic graphics
educational content
engaging experience
detailed animations
steep learning curve
DLC necessity
customization precision
expensive DLCs
pathing system
performance issues
clunky interface
In general, the sentiment towards the game is largely positive. Players appreciate the creative freedom and realistic graphics that allow them to immerse themselves in building and managing detailed zoos. However, there are notable criticisms regarding the cost of DLCs and technical frustrations with building mechanics, which can hinder the gaming experience. The game's educational content and conservation themes are well-received, but the complexity and steep learning curve may deter some players. Overall, Planet Zoo offers an in-depth sandbox experience that fans of management sims and animal care will enjoy, as long as they are prepared for some technical challenges.

Positive Points

  • The game offers incredible creative freedom, allowing players to build and customize zoos with a wide array of options for creativity.
  • Players praise the game's graphics and attention to detail, particularly the realistic animal animations and visual quality.
  • The game is highly engaging, with many players losing themselves in the zoo-building experience for hours at a time.
  • Building tools and sandbox mode allow players to create the zoos of their dreams, offering therapeutic relaxation for many.
  • The focus on educational content and conservation efforts is well-received, with players appreciating learning opportunities about different animals and ecosystems.
  • Negative Points

  • The game is considered quite expensive, especially with the high cost of DLCs required to access all animal species.
  • There are significant frustrations with the building mechanics, particularly the pathing system, which many find awkward and unintuitive.
  • Performance issues arise with larger zoos, causing lag and technical difficulties even on high-end PCs.
  • Players find aspects of the user interface clunky, with some features difficult to navigate or requiring excessive tutorials and guides.
  • Mixed Points

  • While the game's realism and complexity are praised, they also contribute to a steep learning curve that can be discouraging for new players.
  • The multitude of DLCs offer extensive content, yet their necessity for a full experience is debated among players, impacting perceptions of value for money.
  • Customization is both a key feature and a source of frustration due to the need for precision and attention to detail.
  • Common Themes

  • Many reviews cite nostalgia for Zoo Tycoon, noting that Planet Zoo feels like a spiritual successor with modern updates.
  • The game's creative building tools allow for endless customization but require a significant time investment to master.
  • Animal welfare and conservation themes are prevalent, with the educational aspect of the game frequently highlighted.
  • Updated 5/24/2025, 12:01:23 AM UTC