These simulation games may almost be as old as you are, but these are among the classics that started it all. It's true; some things really do improve with age.
Zoo Tycoon
Microsoft
PC
Designed for animal lovers, Zoo Tycoon lets you decide how your zoo will be managed. You can manage a pre-designed zoo with a set of goals to accomplish before completing the scenario, or you can create your own zoo from scratch from a number of different terrains for a general setting.
In freeplay mode, you are on your own. There are no specifically outlined goals, although you can certainly make your own. You create exhibits by building a fence appropriate for each type of animal and altering the terrain and decorations inside the exhibit to please the animal. Guests wander about your zoo at their own pace, and you can also create restaurants and souvenir shops to keep the money rolling in.
The sequel, Zoo Tycoon 2, was released years later, in 2004. If sequels don't typically strike your fancy, you can also look into the original game's expansion packs, such as Dinosaur Digs and Marine Mania. Also check out Zoo Tycoon DS for the Nintendo DS and its sequel, Zoo Tycoon DS 2, which hits stores in February.
Zoo Tycoon
Microsoft
PC
Designed for animal lovers, Zoo Tycoon lets you decide how your zoo will be managed. You can manage a pre-designed zoo with a set of goals to accomplish before completing the scenario, or you can create your own zoo from scratch from a number of different terrains for a general setting.
In freeplay mode, you are on your own. There are no specifically outlined goals, although you can certainly make your own. You create exhibits by building a fence appropriate for each type of animal and altering the terrain and decorations inside the exhibit to please the animal. Guests wander about your zoo at their own pace, and you can also create restaurants and souvenir shops to keep the money rolling in.
The sequel, Zoo Tycoon 2, was released years later, in 2004. If sequels don't typically strike your fancy, you can also look into the original game's expansion packs, such as Dinosaur Digs and Marine Mania. Also check out Zoo Tycoon DS for the Nintendo DS and its sequel, Zoo Tycoon DS 2, which hits stores in February.
