Miller Zoo

Due to a surprising number of requests, Game 4 of our “Fantastically Festive Christmas School Holidays 2023 Marathon” is “Miller Zoo.“

“Miller Zoo” is a cooperative family game in which players work together to take care of animals and introduce new ones to their park. Gameplay-wise, it shares similarities with “Zombie Kids/Teenz,” but instead of fending off zombies, players address animal problems while striving to add new animals to the park.

The goal of each game is to acquire all the animals in the reception spaces by gathering the necessary resources to purchase them.

However, every turn presents various needs for different animals, including being watered, fed, groomed, provided medication, played with, or having their enclosure effects addressed.

During each round, players draw resources and needs cards. If the drawn animals match one of the six types, a token is placed on the corresponding need. As the game progresses and more animals are acquired, meeting these needs becomes increasingly challenging. Using limited cards, players move between points, discarding a card and then using resource cards to address needs on animal cards. The goal is to have enough resources left to purchase an animal.

Failure to clear all the needs tokens results in a crisis. In this situation, players draw cards from the resource deck until the correct need is obtained, depleting the deck, and risking losing the game if resources run out.

It’s a fun mechanic and works well. On each turn you need to work out the most optimal way of using your resources and if possible what to save for next time.

The game’s standout feature is its Legacy elements presented in envelopes, reminiscent of “Zombie Kids/Teenz.” Achievements add variety to gameplay, although having played the game multiple times and obtained a couple of envelopes, it seems they mostly increase the difficulty rather than introducing radical new mechanics.

Production values are commendable; everything is well presented, and the artwork is delightful. It’s worth noting that the isometric artwork on the board doesn’t perfectly align with the card artwork, a minor quibble on my part.

Overall, we thoroughly enjoyed “Miller Zoo.” While “Zombie Teens” remains my preference, this game serves as a great alternative for those seeking an animal-themed experience or a similar gameplay feel.

“Miller Zoo” was generously provided by Hachette Games at no cost as part of a donation to the school where I work, with the understanding that I would review it here.