Frontier Developments releases 'Planet Zoo', progresses publishing strategy

Video games developer and publisher Frontier Developments confirmed on Wednesday that it had successfully released ‘Planet Zoo’ on PC on 5 November, as planned.

The AIM-traded firm said Planet Zoo achieved the global number one bestseller spot on Steam both prior to, and after, its release at noon GMT on 5 November.

It described the game as “the ultimate zoo sim”.

Frontier also confirmed further progress with its recently-announced Frontier Publishing initiative, which it said was expanding its game portfolio through external development partnerships that used its publishing expertise to supplement the company’s internal development roadmap.

The company said it was engaged in discussions with a number of “carefully-selected potential development partners”, with games at various stages of development.

Two partnerships had already been signed to date, including the agreement announced with Haemimont Games in June.

The board said it was continuing to expect that the Frontier Publishing business would become a material contributor to the group in years to come, as more partnerships were agreed.

“As our fourth major self-published game release, we're thrilled with the initial response to Planet Zoo,” said chief executive officer David Braben.

“I'd like to thank our team for their tireless commitment and expertise in creating the ultimate zoo simulation game.

“We can't wait to see the amazing creations from our growing community of Planet Zoo players.”

Braben said the company was also “pleased with progress” on its Frontier Publishing initiative.

“We're passionate about working with the best independent developers in the business, and the signing of our second partnership agreement is a great milestone for us.”

As at 1635 GMT, shares in Frontier Developments were up 8.39% at 1,214p.