How Many Plants vs. Zombies Games Are There? A Comprehensive Guide

The Plants vs. Zombies (PvZ) franchise has captivated gamers worldwide with its unique blend of tower defense strategy, quirky characters, and addictive gameplay. However, navigating the various titles, versions, and spin-offs can be a bit confusing. So, the direct answer to the question: “How many Plants vs. Zombies games are there?” isn’t a simple one. The answer depends on whether you’re referring to the main series or including all spin-offs and variations.

If we’re talking about the main series that follow the classic tower defense formula, there are three core titles: Plants vs. Zombies, Plants vs. Zombies 2, and Plants vs. Zombies 3. These games pit players against hordes of zombies trying to invade their homes, utilizing a diverse array of plants as defensive weaponry.

However, the franchise goes far beyond just these three titles. There have been several spin-offs, remakes, ports, and special editions that have broadened the scope of the PvZ universe. Here, we’ll delve into the various versions, helping you navigate this zombie-filled world.

Understanding the Main Series

Plants vs. Zombies (2009)

The original Plants vs. Zombies, released in 2009, is the game that started it all. It introduced players to the core gameplay mechanics – using a variety of plants to defend against waves of zombies on a grid-based lawn. This game had numerous versions, including:

• PC Version: The original release that set the standard.
• iOS Version: Brought the fun to mobile devices, making it a huge hit.
• Xbox 360 & PlayStation 3 Versions: Offered console gamers a taste of PvZ action.
• Game of the Year Edition: A special edition featuring bonus content.
• Nintendo DS and DSiWare Versions: Portable versions for Nintendo handheld devices.
• Windows Phone 7 Version: Expanded the reach to a different mobile platform.
• Online Demo Version: A trial version to introduce new players to the game.

These versions, while based on the same fundamental game, sometimes varied in features, quality, and even available modes. This is where the numbers start to get tricky when figuring out “how many PvZ games there are”.

Plants vs. Zombies 2 (2013)

Plants vs. Zombies 2, released in 2013, took the series to a new level. This sequel introduced new worlds with unique themes, a vast array of new plants and zombies, and an expanded leveling system. It’s primarily a free-to-play mobile game and features in-app purchases. It has received consistent updates, with the 10.9.1 update adding to the game’s already massive roster of content. This title is also available on other platforms as well.

Plants vs. Zombies 3 (2024)

The latest entry in the main series, Plants vs. Zombies 3, was released in 2024. This game aims to modernize the PvZ experience with a new art style and updated gameplay mechanics. It’s a mobile-first title and maintains the core tower-defense strategy that made the series famous.

Spin-Offs and Variations

Beyond the core series, here are some notable spin-offs and variations:

• Plants vs. Zombies: Garden Warfare & Plants vs. Zombies: Garden Warfare 2: These third-person shooter titles shift the focus from tower defense to direct combat, letting players take control of the plants and zombies.
• Plants vs. Zombies: Heroes: This digital collectible card game features characters from the PvZ universe, introducing a different kind of strategic gameplay.
• Plants vs. Zombies Adventures: A Facebook-based game that combined tower defense with city-building elements. While it’s no longer playable, it was an important expansion of the universe during its active period.
• Plants vs. Zombies: Battle for Neighborville: This third-person shooter is a continuation of the Garden Warfare series, with a large emphasis on online multiplayer.

These spin-offs clearly demonstrate the franchise’s willingness to experiment and explore new genres.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Plants vs. Zombies

To further clarify things about the expansive Plants vs. Zombies universe, here are 15 frequently asked questions:

1. How many plants are in Plants vs. Zombies 2?

As of the 10.9.1 update, there are a grand total of 188 plants, 118 of which are premium plants. Of the premium plants, 22 cost real money, and 13 cost gems.

2. How many zombies are in Plants vs. Zombies (1)?

The original Plants vs. Zombies features 26 types of zombies.

3. What is the strongest zombie in Plants vs. Zombies (1)?

The Giga-gargantuar is the second-strongest zombie, after Dr. Zomboss.

4. How many plants are in PvZ 1?

There are 49 plants to collect in the original Plants vs. Zombies, including upgrade plants and the Imitater.

5. Who made Plants vs. Zombies?

Plants vs. Zombies is developed by PopCap Games, a subsidiary of Electronic Arts (EA).

6. What is the max level for plants in PvZ2?

In PvZ2, all plants are able to reach level 10, 15, or 20, depending on the plant’s characteristics.

7. Which PvZ is better?

Many fans consider the original Plants Vs. Zombies (2009) to be the best in the series due to its simplicity and engaging gameplay.

8. Is there blood in Plants vs. Zombies?

While there is violence, the game is cartoonish. Zombies emit green blood, which keeps it lighthearted.

9. Is Plants vs. Zombies 1 offline?

While the main game can be played offline, spin-offs like Garden Warfare require an internet connection.

10. Is there a PvZ 5?

Currently, there is no Plants vs. Zombies 5. There has, however, been a comic series called Plants vs. Zombies Volume 5: Petal to the Metal.

11. What is Plants vs. Zombies endless?

Survival: Endless is a mode that allows players to play indefinitely with an unlimited number of zombie waves.

12. What is the last level of Plants vs. Zombies (1)?

Level 5-10 is the final level in the Adventure Mode of the original game.

13. Is PvZ 3 free?

PvZ 3 is free-to-play, and there will be microtransactions within the game.

14. Is Plant vs. Zombies for kids?

The game is rated for older children because as the game progresses, it does get more difficult. It’s considered suitable for kids due to its cartoonish nature and strategic gameplay.

15. Who is the main character in Plants vs. Zombies?

Crazy Dave is considered the main character of the Plants vs. Zombies series.

Conclusion

The Plants vs. Zombies franchise is much more than just a few tower defense games. While the main series consists of three core titles – Plants vs. Zombies, Plants vs. Zombies 2, and Plants vs. Zombies 3 – the total number of games expands significantly when you include the various spin-offs, special editions, and ports. From the classic tower defense of the original to the action-packed shooters and card-based strategy of the spin-offs, there’s a version of PvZ for almost every gamer. This expansive universe, with its unique characters, addictive gameplay, and consistent updates, ensures that the Plants vs. Zombies franchise continues to thrive.