Planet Zoo 2 Animal Tier List: Community Wishlists and Speculation

Understanding Planet Zoo 2 Animal Speculation

The anticipation surrounding Planet Zoo 2 has sparked a massive wave of community discussion, particularly regarding which species will make the final roster. As players look forward to the sequel, the creation of "tier lists" has become a popular way to visualize the animals the community most wants to see.

It is important to approach these lists with a clear understanding of the game's current status. While developers have confirmed major new mechanics—such as the introduction of flying birds and fully aquatic animals—the complete list of species is not yet set in stone. When you browse community-made tier lists, remember that these are speculative tools used by fans to express their hopes and identify gaps in the potential lineup, rather than official announcements.

Tip

When building or reviewing a tier list, distinguish between "confirmed" animals (those shown in official trailers or dev diaries) and "wishlist" animals. This helps manage expectations as the developers continue to reveal information.

Confirmed Features vs. Community Wishlists

Frontier Developments has officially confirmed that Planet Zoo 2 will feature gameplay mechanics that were highly requested during the lifespan of the original game. Specifically, the introduction of aviaries and dedicated aquarium systems changes the scope of what players can expect.

However, a "confirmed" feature is not the same as a "confirmed species." For example, while flying birds are confirmed, the specific list of bird species is still being curated. Community members often use tier lists to rank their personal "must-haves" based on these new mechanics.

How Community Lists are Categorized

Most comprehensive tier lists for Planet Zoo 2 currently divide potential animals into three distinct categories. This structure helps players organize their thoughts on how these creatures might fit into the new gameplay systems.

Flying Birds

Focuses on species that would utilize the new aviary mechanics. Players are prioritizing zoo staples like the Eastern White Pelican, Macaws, and various birds of prey like the Bald Eagle.

Aquatic Animals

Targets the new aquarium features. This category includes marine mammals like manatees, as well as fish species such as sharks, rays, and smaller schooling fish that could inhabit large tanks.

Habitat Animals

Covers the traditional zoo exhibits. This category often includes species that were missing from the original Planet Zoo and its DLCs, such as the Walrus or the Nile Crocodile.

Exploring the Most Requested Species

Community wishlists often prioritize animals that fill specific biological or aesthetic niches. By analyzing user-generated templates and discussions, we can see clear trends in what the player base considers essential for the sequel.

The Appeal of Flying Birds

The inclusion of aviaries is arguably the most anticipated feature. In community discussions, players emphasize the need for birds that provide both visual variety and unique behaviors. For instance, the Shoebill is frequently cited for its unique appearance, while the Laughing Kookaburra is requested for its iconic vocalizations and cultural recognition. The goal for many players is to move away from "clipped" terrestrial birds and toward fully flight-capable species that utilize the vertical space in a habitat.

The Potential of Aquatic Exhibits

Aquatic animals are being ranked based on their ability to interact with the environment. Players are looking for species that allow for complex tank designs. Large species like the Giant Manta Ray or Manatee are often placed in "S-Tier" on community lists because they represent the "dream" aquarium experience. Furthermore, smaller, colorful species like the Clownfish or various species of Cichlids are requested to add density and life to the background of these exhibits.

Missing Habitat Species

Many players are using tier lists to highlight "missing" animals from the previous game. The Walrus, for example, is a frequent top-tier request, often cited for its charismatic nature and suitability for Arctic-themed habitats. Similarly, the Serval and the Nile Crocodile appear often, as players feel these species are natural fits for the biomes already established in the Planet Zoo franchise.

Before using a tier list template, check the following:

• Date of Creation: Is the list updated? (Game information changes rapidly as developers release news).
• Source Material: Is it based on official announcements or just fan speculation?
• Scope: Does the list include animals from previous games, or is it strictly for new species?

How to Create Your Own Planet Zoo 2 Tier List

Creating a tier list is a fun way to engage with the community and share your vision for the game. You can use platforms like TierMaker, which allow you to upload images and create custom categories.

1. Define Your Tiers: Start by setting up your ranking system. A standard "S" to "D" tier system works well, where "S" represents your most wanted animals and "D" represents those you are indifferent toward.
2. Organize by Category: As mentioned earlier, grouping animals by their habitat type (Flying, Aquatic, Habitat) makes your list easier to read and more organized.
3. Use Official Assets: If possible, use high-quality images of the animals. This makes your list look professional and easier for other community members to understand.
4. Add Descriptions: Don't just place an animal in a tier; explain why. If you put a species in the "S-Tier," mention what specific behaviors or animations you hope to see in the game.

Factors Influencing Animal Inclusion

While tier lists are fun, it is important to understand the reality of game development. Not every requested animal will make it into the base game. Developers at Frontier Developments typically consider several factors when selecting the final roster:

• Animation Complexity: Animals with unique movement patterns (like the Gerenuk standing on its hind legs) require significant animation work.
• Conservation Status: The Planet Zoo franchise has a strong focus on conservation education. Species that help tell an important conservation story are often prioritized.
• Biome Variety: Developers aim to create a balanced roster that covers various biomes, from the Arctic to the tropical rainforests.
• Community Feedback: While developers cannot add every animal, they do monitor community sentiment to see which species are consistently requested across social media and forums.

FAQ

Will all animals from the original Planet Zoo be in Planet Zoo 2?

There is no official confirmation that every animal from the original game will return. While some may appear, the focus is often on introducing new species and mechanics to keep the sequel fresh.

Are aquatic animals and flying birds confirmed as base game features?

Yes, the developers have confirmed the inclusion of flying birds and fully aquatic animals, which are major new gameplay pillars for the sequel.

Where can I find the official roster?

The only source for a verified, final roster is the official Planet Zoo 2 Steam page and official developer announcements. Anything else should be treated as speculation.

Can I use these tier lists to predict future DLC?

Tier lists are excellent for identifying community demand, which often influences future content updates and DLC packs. If a specific animal is highly requested across many community lists, it is more likely to be considered for future development.