It's been a remarkable 16 years since the launch of the original Plants vs Zombies, and the iconic mobile series continues to thrive. As we celebrate this milestone, let's take a nostalgic journey through the evolution of this beloved franchise. From its inception to its expansion beyond mobile platforms, Plants vs Zombies (PvZ) has truly cemented its status as a gaming icon.
The saga began with Popcap Games in the late 2000s, culminating in the desktop release of Plants vs Zombies in 2009. However, it was the transition to mobile platforms in 2010 and the adoption of a free-to-play model that propelled PvZ into the stratosphere of gaming fame. The mobile version's success was undeniable, capturing the hearts of millions worldwide.
In 2012, EA acquired Popcap Games, marking a pivotal shift towards mobile gaming. This transition, though accompanied by layoffs, did not slow down PvZ's momentum. The release of Plants vs Zombies 2: It's About Time in 2013 solidified PvZ's status as a mobile gaming staple.
EA's vision for PvZ extended beyond mobile, aspiring to make it a pillar in console gaming as well. The releases of Plants vs Zombies: Garden Warfare and Plants vs Zombies: Battle for Neighborville introduced a third-person shooter style, which, while innovative, received mixed reactions due to its departure from the original tower defense gameplay.
Currently, the anticipation for Plants vs Zombies 3: Welcome to Zomburbia is palpable. Announced in 2020 and undergoing a significant overhaul, it's now back in development following a soft launch. Fans are eager for its return, especially with promises of a new art style and a revival of the classic tower defense mechanics that made the series famous.
For those hungry for more tower defense action, inspired by PvZ's trailblazing on mobile, why not explore our curated list of the top 25 best tower defense games available on iOS and Android? Dive in and discover what the genre has to offer today.