Is There 2 Player Plants vs Zombies? A Comprehensive Guide to Multiplayer Mayhem
The short answer is: yes, absolutely! The Plants vs. Zombies franchise offers a variety of two-player experiences, but it’s not a simple “yes” across all titles and platforms. The way you can play with a friend varies significantly depending on which Plants vs. Zombies game you’re playing and on what device. Some games offer local split-screen co-op or competitive modes, while others are designed as single-player experiences or online multiplayer. This article dives deep into the different ways you can enjoy Plants vs. Zombies with a friend.
Co-op and Competitive Modes: What to Expect
The Plants vs. Zombies franchise has evolved considerably since the original tower defense game. Now, there are third-person shooters, card battle games, and a range of different multiplayer modes. Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect:
Split-Screen Local Multiplayer
For gamers who enjoy the classic couch co-op experience, certain Plants vs. Zombies titles offer a fantastic split-screen local multiplayer option. This allows you to play alongside a friend on the same console, either working together or competing against each other. Key titles featuring split-screen include:
- Plants vs. Zombies: Garden Warfare (PS4 and Xbox One): You can team up with a friend for local co-op on the same screen. This lets you battle AI-controlled enemies or go head-to-head in various modes.
- Plants vs. Zombies: Garden Warfare 2 (PS4 and Xbox One): Follows the same principle as GW1, offering split-screen co-op for local play.
- Plants vs. Zombies: Battle for Neighborville (PS4 and Xbox One): Offers split-screen co-op where two players can join the fray together on the same console.
- Xbox 360: Older titles such as the Plants vs Zombies Competitive 2-Player version offer local two player modes.
Online Multiplayer
For players looking to connect with others beyond their living room, several Plants vs. Zombies games offer online multiplayer modes. These modes typically pit you against other players in competitive matches, allowing for an engaging and dynamic experience. Key titles with online multiplayer include:
- Plants vs. Zombies Heroes: This mobile card game allows players to compete against each other in real-time, choosing between plant and zombie heroes.
- Plants vs. Zombies: Garden Warfare 1 & 2: These games feature online multiplayer modes that support up to 24 players, along with co-op modes.
- Plants vs. Zombies: Battle for Neighborville: Continues the tradition of online multiplayer, offering diverse game modes and team battles.
- Plants vs Zombies Mobile Features both ranked and casual multiplayer matches.
Co-op Campaign
Although less common, some Plants vs. Zombies games offer a cooperative experience that spans across the single-player campaigns. While these modes may not be present in every single title, they offer a great way to progress through a storyline with friends:
- Plants vs. Zombies (Original): This game features a co-op mode that is unlocked after a certain point in the Adventure Mode, allowing two players to tackle the story together.
The Single-Player Experience
It’s crucial to understand that not all Plants vs. Zombies games support multiplayer. Some are designed as primarily single-player experiences. For instance:
- Plants vs. Zombies (Original): While it has co-op it is also perfectly enjoyable as a single player game.
- Plants vs. Zombies 2: This game is primarily a single-player game, offering a wide range of levels and challenges designed for a solo experience.
- Plants vs Zombies on Switch – This original version is purely single player unless you have multiple devices.
How to Start a 2-Player Game
Starting a two-player game often depends on the specific title and platform. Here are some general steps:
- Local Split-Screen:
- Ensure that both controllers are connected to the console.
- In many games, simply pressing a button (e.g., X on Xbox, Square on PlayStation, or ‘B’ on some consoles) on the second controller prompts the second player to join.
- Select the desired multiplayer mode (Co-op or VS) from the game’s main menu.
- Online Multiplayer:
- Make sure both players have stable internet connections.
- Navigate to the online multiplayer section of the game’s menu.
- You’ll typically have the option to invite a friend or join an existing match.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I play split-screen on Plants vs. Zombies on the Nintendo Switch?
No, the original Plants vs. Zombies on the Nintendo Switch is a single-player game. You would need two consoles to play with someone else.
2. Which Plants vs. Zombies game has the best split-screen co-op?
Plants vs. Zombies: Garden Warfare 1 and 2, as well as Battle for Neighborville on PS4 and Xbox One, are generally considered to offer the best split-screen co-op experience due to their varied game modes and character classes.
3. Is there a two-player mode in Plants vs. Zombies 2?
Plants vs. Zombies 2 is primarily designed as a single-player game with no dedicated local co-op or split-screen multiplayer features. It does not feature local multiplayer.
4. How do I unlock player 2 in the original Plants vs. Zombies?
In the original game, co-op mode is unlocked after completing day 9 of the Pirate Seas in adventure mode. This mode then allows two players to tackle the story together.
5. Can you play as zombies in Plants vs. Zombies Garden Warfare?
Yes, in Plants vs. Zombies Garden Warfare and its sequels, you can play as zombies, with four playable zombie classes.
6. Is Plants vs. Zombies Heroes a multiplayer game?
Yes, Plants vs. Zombies Heroes is a multiplayer card battle game where you can compete against other players in real-time.
7. Does Plants vs. Zombies: Battle for Neighborville have split-screen on all platforms?
Split-screen in Battle for Neighborville is available on PS4 and Xbox One. The Nintendo Switch does not support local split screen.
8. Do I need an internet connection for Garden Warfare 2?
Yes, while Plants vs. Zombies: Garden Warfare 2 has solo options, it requires an internet connection to play. It does not have an offline play mode.
9. Is there crossplay available for Plants vs Zombies?
No, there is currently no crossplay available for any of the Plants vs Zombies games. Players on different platforms cannot play together.
10. Can I play Plants vs. Zombies Mobile with friends?
Yes, Plants vs Zombies Mobile features ranked and casual multiplayer matches to play against others.
11. Can you play Garden Warfare 2 campaign co-op?
No, the story mode in Garden Warfare 2 is solo only. However, co-op is available in the graveyard and garden ops where you fight waves of AI enemies.
12. Is Plants vs. Zombies Garden Warfare multiplayer only?
Yes, Plants vs. Zombies: Garden Warfare does not have a single-player campaign. It is primarily designed as a multiplayer and co-op experience.
13. How many players can play online in Plants vs. Zombies Battle for Neighborville?
Plants vs. Zombies: Battle for Neighborville can host up to 24 players in online multiplayer.
14. How can I play 2 player on Plants vs Zombies Neighborville?
To play split-screen 2 player on Plants vs Zombies Battle for Neighborville, connect a second controller and press the Square or X button to join the game.
15. Is Plants vs Zombies 2 free to play?
Yes, Plants vs. Zombies 2 is free-to-play but has optional in-app purchases that can speed up progression.
Conclusion
The Plants vs. Zombies series offers a wide variety of ways to play with friends, from local split-screen co-op and competitive modes to online multiplayer battles. Understanding which games offer which features is key to enjoying the best possible experience with your buddies. Whether you’re looking for a relaxed couch co-op session or a competitive online showdown, the Plants vs. Zombies franchise has something for everyone.