THQ's prepares to clean out the DS cage for Zoo Tycoon 2

It would be traditional at this moment to point to a URL and crow, 'We told you so', but we're not that sort of website (well, not much).

So, instead, we're just happy to reveal that THQ has now formally announced Zoo Tycoon 2 is coming to DS – something we speculated would happen in our DS strategy games round-up back in March (sorry, just couldn't help it).

Of course, considering the million-odd sales of the first version, the only surprise is how long it's taken.

The DS game is based on the PC version of Zoo Tycoon 2, although presumably with the 3D graphics toned down. Its goal is to enable you to create your own super zoo, while balancing various limited resources such as cash, space and the design of different animal habitations.

Three modes are promised, such as Zoo Director and the all-new Zookeeper option, which gives you the ability to get in close to the paws and claws and care for the 3D animals.

New animals and environments will also be included in the release, while the DS' touchscreen and stylus will come in handy for tasks like enclosure construction, animal purchasing and some tummy rubbing, too, we'd reckon.

Over 30 animals are included in the game and are classified in terms of their environments such as savannah, tropical rainforest and grassland.

You're also able to exchange information about your zoo using the multicard wireless mode, as well as compete with your friends to see who can build the best zoo.

Zoo Tycoon 2 is due to be released on DS in early 2008.