You've purchased planet zoo, opened it up, watched the cute elephant intro screen. Now what? If you've come from Planet Coaster, you may be tempted to jump right into sandbox mode and start building. I would highly recommend NOT doing that. While the building mechanics are much the same as PlanCo, the management and animal care are a whole different ball game. If you haven't played PlanCo before, you will want to get a good handle on the controls before diving in. Let's go over some basics on where to begin.
Requirements
1. A Computer - You can view the game's computer requirements here. It is important to make sure your computer meets at least the minimum requirements before you attempt to play the game.
2. The Game - If you've come here testing the waters to see if Planet zoo is for you, you can buy the game here.
3. A mouse - You will not want to attempt this game with a touch pad.
That's really all you need. You might find yourself wanting a pencil and pad of paper for design ideas. Now grab some water, a snack, and something to keep track of time otherwise you might find yourself spending many more hours than anticipated watching your baby tigers wrestle in the grass or your peacocks showing their feathers.
Avatar
Once you've opened the game, you'll want to create an avatar. Your avatar (should you choose to allow it) will visit other zoos including your steam friends in the game.
You will receive new outfits for your Avatar through updates and Community Challenges but we'll get to that later. You can change your Avatar at any time.
Game Modes
From the Home Screen, you will have the choice of four game modes.
Career - In career mode, you will follow Bernie, Nancy, and others as you complete story driven levels. You will go from tutorial style levels where you will learn the basics to restoring failing zoos and building zoos from scratch. This is a great place to start to learn the ropes
Franchise - Franchise is an online mode where you will be able to buy and sell animals from other players. You will start with a blank map and limited funds. You will have to research along the way to unlock everything you need to care for your animals and build well decorated zoos. This is where you can participate in community challenges to potentially win rewards such as conservation credits, avatar outfits, or quality animals.
Challenge - Challenge mode is similar to Franchise mode however it is not played online. You will start with the same blank map and limited funds, however your animal market will not be supplied by other players and you will be unable to compete in community challenges. You will have individual challenges to meet to obtain in game currency.
Sandbox - Sandbox is where you can let your imagination run wild. Blank map, unlimited funds, unlimited animals, research complete, and an array of setting choices to play the game how you want.
Now, it's time to pick a mode and get started.
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