The biggest change from Zoo Tycoon 2 from the original game is the graphics. While the first Zoo Tycoon was a 2D sprite based game, the sequel is a full 3D game in every way shape and form. The animals that you populate your zoos with are nicely detailed in both polygons and textures and the animations are realistic looking. In addition to the fully 3D animals and maps, you can now also switch from a top down viewpoint to a full first person perspective. In fact you can play the game in its Zoo Guest mode which gives you a way to see the game as a typical visitor would.