Big new additions are coming to Planet Zoo 2 in the form of aviaries and aquariums, and fans will also be delighted to know that it's coming later this year.
Dropping on PC, PS5, and Xbox Series X, Planet Zoo 2 now has a release date of October 13, 2026.
Revealed in a stunning announcement trailer that gives fantastic sneak peeks at the two new habitat types, Planet Zoo 2 will let players create immersive aquariums in their zoos and let new feathered residents take flight in custom-built aviaries.
Aquariums will allow players to add critters such as black-tipped reef sharks (though I doubt they'd like to be called "critters") and hawksbill turtles to their zoos. These new habitats are, as you'd hope from a Planet Zoo game, completely customizable. Staff will need to keep things clean by hopping through airlocks and donning scuba gear, too.
As for aviaries, you'll unlock friends like toco toucans and secretary birds, all housed beneath sprawling canopies that can be custom-placed for maximum creativity. I love the fact that guests will be able to walk through these spaces, too, so they can get up close and personal with our new residents.
Narratively, Planet Zoo 2 also really dials in on its conservation focus, with players able to take on conservation projects across the globe, working towards revitalizing expansive wildlife reserves that you can actually release animals into.
Of course, there are graphical and quality upgrades too, from improvements to fur, feather, and scale tech, to more authentic behavior from your animals and how they interact with their environment.
Pre-orders start now ahead of launch on October 13. Expect more news during the Summer Game Fest schedule, specifically at Wholesome Games on June 6 and PC Gamer's very own PC Gaming Show on June 7.
It's not just Planet Zoo 2, there are oodles of other new games in 2026 and beyond to look forward to.