DESCRIPTION

Players have the opportunity to create a living zoological park in their home computer with this first release from developers at Blue Fang Games. Building upon conventions of recreational park management simulations such as Sim Theme Park and Roller Coaster Tycoon, Zoo Tycoon has the player building cages and enclosures for animal attractions and placing pathways and landscaping for the people who come to see them. Good design will lead guests comfortably through the zoo, with refreshment stands and bathrooms placed in convenient locations among the attractions.

Caring for the animal attractions themselves requires foresight and nurturing maintenance. The player can learn about the natural environments and preferences of the different animals in the park and use that information to design habitats that will keep them all safe and happy. Happy animals are more active and interesting to zoo visitors. Animals that are not comfortable in their cages may just stand around doing nothing, providing little entertainment to the guests that have paid to come to visit them.

Zoo Tycoon features several modes of play including scenarios with specific objectives, such as the renovation of an outdated park or the breeding of rare animals, as well as an open-ended style of play in which players can design the parks of their dreams with little restriction. In all, 40 different animals are available to virtual zookeepers. The game offers 60 different materials for the design of cages and habitats and another 60 materials with which to build the park and guest accommodations, ensuring that each zoo can offer the gamer a new experience. ~ T.J. Deci, All Game Guide