GDC 2004: Gamebryo to be used for Zoo Tycoon 2
by VGLN Staff

Sunday, March 28, 2004

New graphics tools to turn Zoo Tycoon to 3D.

NDL, a leading developer of 3D graphics technology for the computer and video game industry, announced today, from the 2004 Game Developers Conference (GDC), that Gamebryo™ is being used by Blue Fang Games LLC for the award-winning Zoo Tycoon sequel titled Zoo Tycoon 2. Gamebryo provides the graphics engine and tools to help companies like Blue Fang Games generate 3-D graphics without sacrificing the development time necessary to create compelling content and gameplay. Zoo Tycoon 2 is scheduled to ship for Windows this Fall.

Gamebryo is a real-time 3D graphics engine and tools used in the creation of computer and video games for the PC, PlayStation 2, Xbox, and GameCube. The technology is widely used in top-selling computer and video games with developers giving NDL high praise for enabling them to more easily create, modify and enhance content from prototype to gold master.

"Gamebryo assists our engineers and artists to quickly implement new graphic features into the game," said John Wheeler, vice president of software development of Blue Fang Games. "With NDL's technology and dedicated support team, we're able to spend more time creating a truly unique environment with great gameplay and content."

Zoo Tycoon 2 will provide gamers with the challenge of building the ultimate zoo. With the implantation of Gamebryo in conjunction with Blue Fang's internal technology, the virtual zoo features enhanced 3D graphics and engaging gameplay for simulation game fans of all ages. Blue Fang is creating incredibly detailed 3D animals with new animations and an array of building tools and objects, including powerful terrain-altering options, scenery, foliage, themed buildings and animal shelters.

"Zoo Tycoon is a huge success for us and the Blue Fang team," said Robert Jerauld, program manager at the franchise publisher Microsoft Game Studios. "NDL has done an excellent job providing Blue Fang with the 3D technology tools they need to bring creativity and detail to this franchise."

"Zoo Tycoon has won numerous awards and we're very excited to expand our relationship with the Blue Fang team for the sequel," said John Austin, president and chief executive officer of NDL. "Our team works hard to stay at the forefront of 3D technology so our customers can focus their time and energy developing unique elements that set them apart from the competition."

--- Kit