Gaming News - March 2006

Redmond, WA (March 7, 2006) - Microsoft Game Studios today announced the upcoming releases of Zoo Tycoon 2: African Adventure and Zoo Tycoon 2: Marine Mania expansion packs, and downloadable Zoo Tycoon 2: Dino Danger Pack.

From Microsoft:

“With more than 5 million franchise units sold since the launch of ‘Zoo Tycoon’ in 2001, we are looking forward to shaking up the animal simulation space with these exciting new additions,” said Mike Fischer, general manager for global marketing at Microsoft Game Studios. “These expansion packs provide a fun and enlightening opportunity for families to game together, while also providing fresh and innovative content for current ‘Zoo Tycoon 2’ enthusiasts.”

“Zoo Tycoon 2: African Adventure,” available in May 2006, will allow virtual zookeepers to adopt and care for 20 new African animals from eight biomes, such as the adorable meerkat or the endangered Ethiopian wolf. Gamers of all ages can customize their dream zoo with dozens of new buildings, objects and gift items, including the full desert theme pack.

The new “African Adventure” expansion pack will also enable a safari-like adventure for the entire family as they view the animals in their exotic habitats in Zookeeper, Zoo Guest and Photo Safari modes, first introduced in “Zoo Tycoon 2.” Gamers can further extend the safari experience by venturing into their zoo in the new Jeep Liberty vehicle with outrageous, optional animal-skin paint jobs. As always, children and parents can broaden their knowledge of the animal kingdom with the Zoopedia feature, which provides entertaining and interesting animal facts.

“Zoo Tycoon 2: Marine Mania” expansion pack and downloadable “Zoo Tycoon 2: Dino Danger Pack” will further expand the “Zoo Tycoon 2” experience later this year by introducing entirely new scenarios and themes. With a single click of a mouse, players will soon be able to transport the world’s most unique animal species into their homes.

“Zoo Tycoon 2,” the sequel to the wildly popular, award-winning “Zoo Tycoon,” continues to provide the ultimate zoo experience, challenging gamers to design and build the most vibrant zoo possible while working to ensure animal happiness, customer satisfaction and profitability. Allowing players to step directly into their zoo where they’ll be face-to-face with animals and guests, the sequel introduced a new zoom feature and immersive 3-D graphics. Since its launch in November 2004, “Zoo Tycoon 2” has continued the award-winning legacy of its predecessors and has been recognized by the Academy of Interactive Arts & Sciences, Children’s Software & New Media Revue, and Scholastic Parent & Child.