"Plants Vs Zombies Celebrates 16th Anniversary"

It's been an impressive 16 years since the initial launch of Plants vs Zombies, and the iconic mobile series continues to thrive. Let's take a nostalgic journey through the evolution of this classic game, exploring how it has expanded from its roots to become a staple in the gaming world. From its inception to significant shifts and expansions beyond mobile, PvZ has carved out a legendary status in gaming history.

The story of Plants vs Zombies began with developer PopCap Games in the late 2000s. The original game hit desktops in 2009, but it was the transition to mobile platforms in 2010, coupled with the adoption of a free-to-play model, that propelled PvZ into the realm of superstardom. This move not only broadened its audience but also redefined mobile gaming success.

In 2012, a significant milestone occurred when EA acquired PopCap. Despite the challenges that followed, including a shift in focus towards mobile and subsequent layoffs, the franchise's momentum didn't falter. Plants vs Zombies 2: It's About Time, released in 2013, solidified PvZ as a mobile gaming icon.

Beyond Mobile: EA's vision for PvZ extended well beyond mobile devices. They aimed to establish the franchise as a pillar in console gaming as well. Titles like Plants vs Zombies: Garden Warfare and Plants vs Zombies: Battle for Neighborville introduced third-person shooter gameplay, a departure from the original's tower defense roots. These games were met with mixed reviews due to their drastic shift in gameplay style.

Currently, anticipation builds around Plants vs Zombies 3: Welcome to Zomburbia, which has been in development since 2020. After a recent major overhaul, it's back in soft launch, promising a return to the classic tower defense gameplay that fans adored, complete with a fresh new art style. As players eagerly await its full release, the hunger for a return to the series' roots is palpable.

For those interested in exploring more of the genre that Plants vs Zombies helped popularize on mobile, check out our curated list of the top 25 best tower defense games available on iOS and Android. Discover the latest and greatest in tower defense gaming today!