Planet Zoo 2 game modes
Last verified 2026-10-14
FeaturesPlanet Zoo 2 has Career, Sandbox and Franchise. Career provides scenario objectives; Sandbox lets you configure constraints; Franchise requires an internet connection and a Frontier account.
Source-based mode comparison checked 14 October 2026 against Frontier's mode page and Basics guide. Sandbox is not assumed to be free of economy or welfare constraints.
Choose a mode
| Mode | Main purpose | Important setting or requirement |
|---|---|---|
| Career | Follow FEN's story and scenario objectives | Scenario medals raise Career accreditation |
| Sandbox | Customise a zoo or Wildlife Reserve | Review Default, Creative or Challenge presets and Economy/Animal Welfare settings |
| Franchise | Build connected zoos and reserves and trade animals | Internet connection and Frontier account required; zoo Cash is separate, Conservation Credits shared |
Challenge is a Sandbox preset here, not a fourth main Planet Zoo 2 mode.
Sandbox settings determine the constraints
Choose Sandbox, Create New Zoo, select biome and continent, then review Default, Creative or Challenge. Open Sandbox Settings and inspect Economy and Animal Welfare before creating the zoo.
Use settings suited to the project you want to practise. The mode name alone does not establish unlimited money or disabled welfare.
Planet Hub and online features
Planet Hub tracks progress, research and conservation across all three modes. Career and Sandbox offer offline play; Franchise, downloading blueprints and sharing require a connection.
Franchise trading and community challenges are asynchronous online features, not a shared live zoo. On 14 October 2026 Bred 'n' Water is marked In Progress; Green Green Grassland is a later challenge scheduled for 27 October.
Questions people ask
Does Sandbox remove money pressure?
Its Economy and Animal Welfare settings are configurable. Review the selected preset and settings rather than assuming all constraints are off.
Can I play offline?
Career and Sandbox offer offline play. Franchise requires online access; downloading and sharing blueprints also need a connection.
Is Challenge a fourth mode?
Frontier lists three main modes. Default, Creative and Challenge are Sandbox presets in the Basics guide.