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Vote: (18 votes)

Program license: Trial version

Developer: Thq

Works under: Windows

Vote:

Program license

(18 votes)

Trial version

Developer

Thq

Works under:

Windows

Unleash your inner zookeeper with "World of Zoo," where you're given the reins to create, customize, and connect with your own vibrant wildlife sanctuary. Step into the shoes of a visionary zoo director tasked with crafting an engaging habitat for a plethora of different species while educating yourself on fascinating animal facts provided by National Geographic.

Design and Interaction at Your Fingertips

"World of Zoo" stands out in the realm of animal simulation games by offering an unparalleled level of customization. Utilizing the robust Animal Creator feature, you can construct a nearly infinite variety of creatures, tweaking everything from body shapes to color patterns. This engrossing tool bolsters the game's replay value and ignites the imagination of zoologists-in-making.

As you build your zoo from the ground up, the game's interface facilitates direct interaction with the animals. Not only does this create a hands-on experience, but it also ties into the game’s mechanics, where the trust and affection of your animals can be earned. Regular interaction increases their happiness, which in turn reflects positively on the overall success of your zoo.

Loads of Content and Mini-Games

Beyond the Animal Creator, "World of Zoo" packs hours of entertainment through engaging mini-games, challenging achievements, and a treasure trove of unlockables. Each mini-game is intricately designed to fit the theme of the respective animal enclosure, adding to the immersive zoo experience.

The achievements system incentivizes players to explore every corner of what the game has to offer, pushing them to design more elaborate habitats, breed rare animal variants, and interact with their wildlife in unique ways. Unlockables such as toys for your animals or decorations for the enclosures ensure that no two zoos are alike.

Educational Value and Online Features

A standout feature for parents and educators is the integration of National Geographic animal fact cards, transforming gameplay into an informative session that broadens the understanding of over 90 different animal species. Young players can indulge their curiosity and acquire knowledge while they play, marrying education with recreation.

Moreover, "World of Zoo" includes online connectivity, offering user-generated content that can enrich your zoo-building experience. Exchange insights with an active community, download new content, and constantly evolve your virtual zoo with fresh ideas from other enthusiasts around the world.

System Requirements and Technical Performance

Keeping in mind the system requirements for optimal performance, "World of Zoo" demands a Windows-based system with a minimum Intel Pentium IV processor running at 2 GHz or equivalent, 512 MB RAM (1 GB for Vista users), and 2GB of hard drive space. A Nvidia GeForce 6600 GT or ATI Radeon x1600 video card ensures the graphics run smoothly. The game requires DirectX 9.0c, a DVD-ROM Drive, and a DirectX-compatible sound card.

Given these specifications, "World of Zoo" runs sufficiently on older systems as well, making it accessible for a broad range of users. The visuals and audio are fitting for the game’s goals, though not groundbreaking by current standards. They serve to complement the gameplay experience without overpowering it, focusing on the substance of zoo management and creation.

Pros

  • Deep customization with the Animal Creator
  • Direct interaction with animals enhances engagement
  • Mini-games and unlockables enrich gameplay
  • Educational content from National Geographic
  • User-generated content keeps the game fresh

Cons

  • Graphics might not impress players used to more modern visuals
  • Online features require an active community for the best experience
  • System requirements might exclude the most basic setups

In the vast savanna of zoo simulators, "World of Zoo" positions itself as a family-friendly, creative platform for animal lovers and aspiring zoo directors. Its balance of educational content, customization, and interactive gameplay makes it a must-try for players who are passionate about wildlife and zoo management.