The third Jurassic Park construction and management sim has greater customization, more global locations, and some very cute baby dinosaurs. Moving beyond the typical film tie-in formula, Jurassic World Evolution 3 is shaping up to be an enticing experience for fans and gamers alike.
In recent years, gaming has transformed how it interacts with popular intellectual properties (IP). More than ever, video games are becoming the powerhouse behind franchises that have been waning. Consider how Sonic The Hedgehog and The Last Of Us have seen successful adaptations into movies and series. Meanwhile, titles like Hogwarts Legacy have revitalized franchises like Harry Potter, which suffered as film adaptations faltered.
Jurassic Park presents a unique scenario: the brand remains commercially successful, especially with the recent Jurassic World Rebirth achieving significant box office acclaim. However, it often feels like the franchise has run its course in many respects. With the exception of the impressive Jurassic World Evolution series, other recent creative endeavors have not generated sufficient excitement.
Even with all its advancements, the previous entry, Jurassic World Evolution 2, fell short, selling fewer copies than its predecessor—5.2 million compared to 6 million. Nonetheless, developer Frontier clearly saw enough potential to move forward with a sequel that enhances the gaming mechanics incrementally.
For those unfamiliar with the previous titles, Jurassic World Evolution 3 elegantly guides players through its mechanics with a robust campaign mode. The game’s core revolves around constructing a successful theme park while managing dinosaur welfare and keeping them contained to prevent any catastrophic escapes. Dinosaurs, needing comfort and stability in their environments, can break free under various conditions, including bad weather or discomfort.
The sequel introduces several new features that facilitate smoother gameplay. Maintenance posts and security cameras allow workers to respond automatically to breaches in containment and other emergencies, significantly reducing the monotonous elements typically associated with park management. For those who enjoy hands-on play, real-time tranquilization of rogue dinosaurs is still an option, emphasizing creativity and strategy in maintaining order.
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While employing these useful tools may reduce the challenge, they offer players a more laid-back experience if preferred. Juggling numerous activities, from building habitats for over 90 dinosaur species to responding to random crises, keeps the gameplay engaging. Yet, Supreme flexibility is a huge standout, as players can terraform landscapes to their liking, modify buildings with intricate details, and share their creations with the community through the new Frontier Workshop.
Controls on console may feel cumbersome during granular editing—particularly with custom-building elements—but the depth remains impressive. In sandbox mode, gamers can design virtually any park they can imagine, utilizing an island generator tool to customize everything from shape to biomes.
A delightful new feature is the introduction of baby dinosaurs. Players can create life through breeding rather than strictly synthesizing in labs. As long as adult dinosaurs are healthy and a nesting area is available, the joy of seeing a hatchling sprout is a charming addition. While the presence of baby dinosaurs certainly adds character to the park, their gameplay implications may not match their cuteness, serving primarily to boost attendance rates.
The campaign has received a significant upgrade, shifting from a mere tutorial to an engaging series of missions set in diverse environments. The tasks evolve from basic concepts to more complex challenges, including managing populations in challenging landscapes. Each park you develop receives a star rating, encouraging mobility and exploration as you strategize your way toward higher scores.
As this new entry occurs after the events of Jurassic World Dominion, it opens up new geographical diversity. Gamers will traverse snowy mountains in Italy, arid deserts in America, and lush landscapes in Japan, making this installment the most visually varied to date.
Although the absence of the Chaos Theory mode is felt, challenge modes return to keep players on their toes. Completing tasks while racing against the clock can offer rewarding experiences; however, those hoping for a more extensive lineup may find the initial offering of nine challenges limiting.
In summary, Jurassic World Evolution 3 integrates substantial improvements in park building without radically altering dinosaur management mechanics. While familiarity looms, this title remains a pinnacle of immersive dinosaur-themed gaming.
Jurassic World Evolution 3 review summary
In Short: The best and most versatile Jurassic World Evolution title yet, even if it’s only a compsognathus-sized step up from its predecessor, rather than a brachiosaurus length stride.
Pros: Vastly improved campaign mode. Greater span of locations from around the world. Enhanced park customization options with user-generated content.
Cons: Baby dinosaurs, while adorable, offer little in terms of gameplay. Quality-of-life features can lessen difficulty. Overall iterative sequel that feels familiar.
Score: 8/10
Formats: PlayStation 5 (reviewed), Xbox Series X/S, and PC
Price: £49.99
Publisher: Frontier
Developer: Frontier
Release Date: 21st October 2025
Age Rating: 16
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