Switch Zoo began as an online-only game that allowed players to mix and match the heads, bodies, and tails of various creatures and supplied scientific and historical information about each animal selected. The retail release of Switch Zoo Deluxe offers players 142 different animals to "switch," larger pictures and animations, and the ability to save created animals along with a title and story. The game received an "E" rating and the "Edutainment" descriptor from the ESRB, and the initial release was offered to teachers and other educators at a reduced price. Like the original web application, Switch Zoo Deluxe was created by Tubehead, which comprises artist Penny Kurtz and animator Guy Spataford. ~ T.J. Deci, All Game Guide