Planet Zoo: Africa Pack

Planet Zoo: Africa Pack is a downloadable content expansion developed and published by Frontier Developments. Released on June 22, 2021, for the PC version of Planet Zoo, this pack introduced five new animal species, over 180 new scenery pieces, and a timed scenario set in a North African-inspired oasis. It was later included in a console bundle released in July 2024 for Xbox Series X|S, bringing the content to console players for the first time.

The Africa Pack adds five new species: the meerkat, southern white rhinoceros, African penguin, fennec fox, and sacred scarab beetle. Each animal features distinct habitat and social needs, encouraging players to create authentic environments that reflect the diversity of African ecosystems. Alongside the animals, the pack offers a wide range of new scenery elements inspired by North African architecture and landscapes, such as doum palms and quiver trees. The included timed scenario, “Once in a Blue Dune,” challenges players to develop a struggling oasis zoo into a thriving and sustainable attraction.

Reception to the Africa Pack was generally positive, with praise focused on the detailed animal behaviors and the depth of simulation it added to the game. Players and critics alike highlighted the creative freedom afforded by the new building materials and the immersive atmosphere created by the pack’s design. Promotional efforts included trailers and developer diaries that showcased the features and scenarios, helping to build anticipation and engagement within the Planet Zoo community. This pack continued the trend of themed expansions that have become a hallmark of the game’s ongoing development.