It's been an incredible 16 years since the original launch of *Plants vs. Zombies*, and the franchise continues to captivate gamers. As we reflect on this iconic mobile series, it's fascinating to see how it has evolved from its modest start to becoming a staple in gaming culture. The journey of *Plants vs. Zombies* has taken it from desktops to mobile devices, and beyond, showcasing its versatility and enduring appeal.
The story 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, coupled with the adoption of a free-to-play model, that propelled *Plants vs. Zombies* into the gaming stratosphere. The game's addictive tower defense mechanics and quirky charm resonated deeply with players, setting the stage for its meteoric rise.
In 2012, EA's acquisition of PopCap marked a pivotal shift towards mobile focus, albeit with some turbulence including layoffs. Yet, *Plants vs. Zombies* thrived, reaching new heights with the 2013 release of *Plants vs. Zombies 2: It's About Time*. This sequel cemented the franchise's status as a mobile gaming icon.
Beyond Mobile
EA harbored grand visions for Plants vs. Zombies, aiming to extend its reach into console gaming. 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's tower defense roots. These games received mixed reviews but showcased the franchise's adaptability.
Currently, anticipation builds around *Plants vs. Zombies 3: Welcome to Zomburbia*, in development since 2020 and recently undergoing a major overhaul. After pulling the soft-launched version offline, the team is working on a revival that promises to blend a fresh art style with the classic tower defense gameplay fans love. As *PvZ 3* remains in soft launch, the community eagerly awaits a return to the series' roots.
For those intrigued by the tower defense genre that *Plants vs. Zombies* helped popularize on mobile, don't miss our curated list of the top 25 best tower defense games available on iOS and Android. Dive in and discover what else the genre has to offer.
