Years have passed, yet the sentiment towards EA remains a lingering grudge for many fans. The acquisition of PopCap, the studio behind beloved titles like Peggle and Plants vs. Zombies, marked a turning point. Following the buyout, EA’s decisions led to significant layoffs and a shift in focus towards mobile game development. This pivot resulted in sequels such as Plants vs. Zombies 2 and Peggle 2 that never graced the PC platform, leaving a sense of disappointment among loyal players.
Visual Upgrades and New Features
In the realm of nostalgia, the recent release of Plants vs. Zombies: Replanted offers a fresh take on the classic. While some may hesitate to invest in this iteration, it’s worth noting that a widescreen mod for the original game exists, allowing players to enjoy the experience without additional cost. The visual enhancements in Replanted are indeed striking, though the gameplay remains anchored in the familiar 4:3 aspect ratio.
Beyond aesthetics, Replanted introduces a variety of new game modes and minigames. One notable addition is the Cloudy Day mode, which combines elements of day and night gameplay, challenging players to manage their sunlight resources more strategically. For those seeking a heightened challenge, the hardcore mode imposes permadeath, forcing players to restart from the beginning upon failure, thereby raising the stakes in every encounter.
Moreover, the game features bonus levels that hark back to the “Limbo Page” of the original Plants vs. Zombies. These levels, previously discovered by dataminers but never officially included, can now be unlocked during the adventure mode, offering a nostalgic trip down memory lane.
Engaging Gameplay and Multiplayer Options
Among the new challenges are creative modes like the Art Challenge, where players must strategically place specific plants to create images, and Unsodded, which restricts planting on certain strips of lawn while zombies continue their advance. The Air Raid level introduces a unique twist, featuring balloon zombies as the primary threat.
While the bonus levels may not have the same impact as the core gameplay, they provide enjoyable diversions. Additionally, Replanted now includes local multiplayer options, allowing players to team up in co-op mode or compete against each other in a versus mode, where one player controls the zombies.
With the inclusion of all original minigames, survival mode, and the beloved Zen Garden, Plants vs. Zombies: Replanted presents a comprehensive package for fans. While it may not be deemed an essential purchase, the allure of enhanced visuals and new content is likely to make it a favorite for many, especially for those looking to relive the charm of zombie-squashing on their Steam Deck.
