Ethan Crossfield 
Players deciding whether to follow Planet Zoo 2 ahead of release have an early indicator of its potential reach: the animal management sim is already showing up prominently on Steam’s revenue-based charts in more than a dozen regions. Its October 13 launch is approaching with visible PC demand, although live sales rankings can shift quickly.
What changed on Steam
Planet Zoo 2 has entered Steam’s Top Sellers rankings across more than 12 regional markets before its worldwide launch. Its strongest placement is in the Netherlands, where it is currently ranked first. The game is also positioned within the top 10 in several other markets, including the Czech Republic at No. 3, the United Kingdom at No. 4, Germany and Switzerland at No. 7, and Australia at No. 9. In the United States, it is sitting at No. 18.
These placements are notable because Steam’s Top Sellers page measures recent revenue rather than simply counting base-game copies sold. Valve’s chart also includes spending on downloadable content and in-game purchases, which helps explain why free-to-play releases can occupy leading positions. Planet Zoo 2 is therefore competing in a chart that includes major live-service games, not only upcoming premium releases.
Who the pre-launch signal matters to
For prospective players, the broad regional showing suggests that interest is not limited to one country or a single short-term spike. Historical data from the Netherlands points to a steady climb: Planet Zoo 2 ranked No. 16 there during September 15-22, moved to No. 13 for September 22-29, and reached No. 11 on September 29. It has held the country’s top position since October 7.
That does not guarantee launch-day performance or long-term player numbers. Steam rankings are live and can change as new games arrive, discounts begin, or major updates drive spending elsewhere. Still, the game’s presence across several large markets gives Frontier Developments a more encouraging pre-release signal than a high placement in one isolated territory would.
What comes next for Planet Zoo 2
Planet Zoo 2 launches on October 13 through Steam, the Epic Games Store, and Microsoft Store. PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X/S editions are scheduled for the same day. The Steam edition is currently drawing the clearest visible presale momentum, which fits the genre’s established PC audience.
The sequel continues the construction and management foundation of the 2019 original. Players will create habitats, look after animals with different welfare needs, oversee staff and budgets, and maintain guest satisfaction while expanding their parks. Career mode provides a structured route through the game, while Franchise mode focuses on building a network of zoos and wildlife reserves and trading animals with other players. Sandbox mode returns for players who want fewer restrictions on their builds.
What players should know
- Planet Zoo 2 launches globally on October 13.
- Steam is showing the game in Top Sellers charts across more than 12 regions.
- The Netherlands is currently its best-performing listed market, at No. 1.
- Steam’s chart is based on recent revenue, including DLC and in-game spending, not copy sales alone.
- PC storefronts include Steam, Epic Games Store, and Microsoft Store; PS5 and Xbox Series X/S versions also arrive on launch day.
Expert View
Planet Zoo 2’s chart positions are a meaningful early sign for a management sim, particularly because they span multiple regions rather than relying on one market. Players should treat the rankings as evidence of strong pre-launch attention, not a verdict on the finished game. The launch will determine whether that interest converts into a sustained community for its Franchise and Sandbox modes.
