Microsoft Game Contest Offers Students Trip to Georgia Aquarium

Microsoft Game Studios is giving students the chance to win a free trip to the world's largest aaquarium, the Georgia Aquarium. In conjunction with its new PC game expansion pack, "Zoo Tycoon 2: Marine Mania," kids in Grades 6 through 8 can submit a 250- to 500-word essay focusing on why ocean conservation and the protection of marine mammals is important.

The grand prize winner of the contest receives a trip for four to Atlanta and a special behind-the-scenes tour of the Georgia Aquarium, where the winner and his or her family can observe whale sharks and African black-footed penguins in their natural habitats from exclusive views of the exhibits. They can also speak directly with staff biologists to learn more about how to take care of the marine animals. Runners-up receive copies of “Zoo Tycoon 2” and all franchise expansion packs, including “Zoo Tycoon 2: Marine Mania.”

According to Microsoft research, aquariums are the top choice when kids are asked about field trip destinations. The Georgia Aquarium has 100,000 animals from 500 species. Those students who can't make it down to Georgia can build their own aquarium and take care of the mammals in the new PC game expansion pack.

Those who do visit the Georgia Aquarium will soon be able to play the game in its Learning Loop. Microsoft has teamed up with the aquarium for its education programs and will use the "Zoo Tycoon" franchise as an educational tool for kids.