It's been a remarkable 16 years since the initial launch of Plants vs Zombies, and the iconic mobile series is still thriving. 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, Plants vs Zombies has carved out a legendary status in the gaming world.
The story begins with Popcap Games in the late 2000s, launching Plants vs Zombies on desktop in 2009. However, it was the transition to mobile platforms in 2010 and the adoption of a free-to-play model that catapulted the game to worldwide fame. This strategic shift allowed players to experience the joy of defending their lawns from zombies on the go, making it accessible to a broader audience.
In 2012, EA acquired Popcap, which led to a turbulent period with a focus shift to mobile and subsequent layoffs. Despite these challenges, Plants vs Zombies 2: It's About Time was released in 2013, cementing the franchise's status as a mobile gaming icon.
Beyond Mobile
EA had grand visions for the Plants vs Zombies series, aiming to make it a staple in console gaming as well. The release of Plants vs Zombies: Garden Warfare and Plants vs Zombies: Battle for Neighborville introduced a new third-person shooter style, which received mixed reactions due to its departure from the classic tower defense gameplay.
Currently, Plants vs Zombies 3: Welcome to Zomburbia is undergoing a significant revamp since its soft launch in 2020. With a new art style and a focus on returning to the series' roots with tower defense mechanics, anticipation is high among fans eager for a nostalgic yet fresh experience.
If you're keen to explore more games in the genre that Plants vs Zombies helped popularize on mobile, don't miss our curated list of the top 25 best tower defense games on iOS and Android. Dive in and discover what else is out there to satisfy your strategic gaming cravings!
