"Plants Vs Zombies Celebrates 16th Anniversary"

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 reflect on its journey, it's clear that Plants vs Zombies has evolved significantly from its initial release to becoming a staple in the gaming world. From its inception to its expansion beyond mobile platforms, the series has navigated through various challenges and transformations, cementing its status as a gaming icon.

The story of Plants vs Zombies began with Popcap Games in the late 2000s, culminating in the desktop release in 2009. However, it was the transition to mobile in 2010 and the adoption of a free-to-play model that propelled PvZ into the spotlight. This strategic move not only broadened its audience but also set a new standard for mobile gaming.

In 2012, EA acquired Popcap, marking a pivotal moment for the franchise. Despite the challenges of shifting focus to mobile and subsequent layoffs, Plants vs Zombies solidified its position in the mobile gaming market with the release of Plants vs Zombies 2: It's About Time in 2013. This sequel further entrenched the series' popularity and influence.

Beyond Mobile

EA's vision for Plants vs Zombies extended beyond mobile, aiming to make it a cornerstone of console gaming as well. Titles like Plants vs Zombies: Garden Warfare and Plants vs Zombies: Battle for Neighborville introduced a third-person shooter style, diverging significantly from the original tower defense gameplay. These releases received mixed reactions, reflecting the bold shift in gameplay mechanics.

Plants vs Zombies 3: Welcome to Zomburbia, announced in 2020, has been undergoing a major overhaul and is currently in soft launch. This latest installment promises a return to the series' roots with a fresh art style and a focus on classic tower defense gameplay, reigniting fans' anticipation for a true revival of the franchise.

As the excitement builds for Plants vs Zombies 3, fans are eager to revisit the genre that PvZ helped popularize on mobile. For those interested in exploring similar games, our list of the top 25 best tower defense games on iOS and Android offers a great starting point to discover what's currently available in the genre.