In Zooligans card game players take on the role of zookeepers trying to find animals to complete their exhibits. In so doing, they attract visitors to make the best zoo. The game is set up with a three exhibit goals, such as "4 or more reptiles" or "3 or more rainforest animals" that are central to all players. In addition, players have a secret continental theme, scoring them bonus visitors for animals from their continent.
When the game begins, players start with a hand of three animal cards. Each turn, players can bid on a worldwide animal in the auction. Then they play a card adding it to their zoo. When a player has all the animals to complete an exhibit goal, they can form the exhibit, attracting a number of visitors.
At the end of the game, the points are tallied, and the player with the most visitors wins.