About this time last year, I was caught up playing Planet Zoo, the zoological simulation game that has taken the world by storm. Well, it took me by storm anyway. The end of my review stated: “This may be the last game review I ever write, as I’m going to be playing Planet Zoo a lot and for a long time.” I was not wrong. There have been other game reviews since then, but I can’t lie - if I have enough time to sit down and play something, you’re going to find me managing a zoo.

So, I was super excited to see the announcement today for Planet Zoo 2, with a trailer showing off what’s coming. It looks very sweeping and beautiful, but it did take me a minute to realise what was actually new here. The biggest one for me is the aquariums. At the moment you can make viewing areas that do look underwater but it’s for penguins and crocs, whereas we’re going to be getting full on fish in this new release. Actual sharks!

People are also excited about the aviaries, allowing them to have birds. I’m less keen on birds, aside from the flamingos that we already have, but I’m sure it will be fun.

As with all these types of games, Sims, etc, I’m terrible at the building side of things, but it looks like there’s going to be lots more coming on that side as well. For me, it’s about the animals and the management, meeting the challenges and earning the dollars. It’s available to pre-order now and available in October, I can’t wait.

It also means I have to play the existing Planet Zoo more because there are scenarios I still need to work through and the pressure is on! That’s a great excuse, isn’t it?