What is Boss Mode in PvZ Garden Warfare? A Comprehensive Guide
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Boss Mode in Plants vs. Zombies: Garden Warfare (PvZ GW) is a unique and strategic game mode that allows players to step into the shoes, or rather, the flying machines, of either Crazy Dave or Dr. Zomboss. Unlike the standard classes, where players engage directly in combat, Boss Mode provides a top-down, aerial perspective, transforming the battlefield into a strategic chessboard. In this mode, players don’t directly fight on the ground; instead, they provide crucial support to their respective teams.
Instead of actively participating in the firefight on the ground, Boss Mode is a flying vehicle that looms over the landscape. This perspective shift grants the Boss player a panoramic view, enabling them to survey the battlefield and provide strategic support through various abilities. They act as the eyes in the sky, offering crucial assistance to their team. Think of them as a mobile command center offering a unique, tactical angle on the action.
It is important to note that Boss mode is a feature in the original Plants vs. Zombies: Garden Warfare, and not Garden Warfare 2. While the sequel does not have the exact Boss mode, it does have boss battles, and some of the mechanics are similar to that of the first game.
How Boss Mode Works
In the original Plants vs. Zombies: Garden Warfare, Boss Mode is not an in-game character that runs around on the battlefield, rather it’s a strategic vehicle that provides support from above. Here’s a breakdown of how it functions:
The Players
Players choose either Crazy Dave for the Plant team or Dr. Zomboss for the Zombie team. Both characters have different, yet equally important, abilities.
Top-Down View
The perspective shifts to an aerial view, giving the player a complete view of the map. This allows for strategic planning and support placement.
Support Abilities
Instead of direct combat, Boss players provide support abilities to their team, including:
- Healing: Deploying healing stations or abilities to replenish teammates’ health.
- Reviving: Quickly revive fallen teammates to return them to the fight.
- Buffing: Granting temporary boosts to teammates’ speed, attack power, or defense.
- Offensive Assists: Deploying area-of-effect attacks like airstrikes or calling in reinforcements.
- Deploying Turrets: Lay down automated defenses in strategic locations.
Utilizing the Kinect or SmartGlass
Originally, Boss Mode was designed to be utilized through the Xbox Kinect or a SmartGlass compatible device, enhancing the strategic feel by allowing players to control the battle from a mobile screen. This feature was phased out in later versions.
Strategic Advantage
The Boss is a key player in the flow of the battle. A good Boss can make the difference between victory and defeat. Strategic positioning of support and proper resource allocation is crucial.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I actually play as Crazy Dave or Dr. Zomboss in combat?
No, in Boss Mode, you do not play as Crazy Dave or Dr. Zomboss in a traditional character role. Instead, you pilot their respective flying vehicle to support your team from a top-down perspective. This mode is all about strategic support and management, rather than direct combat.
2. Is Boss Mode available in Plants vs. Zombies Garden Warfare 2?
While Boss Mode as a stand-alone option is not available in PvZ GW2, the game features elements that are similar. GW2 has boss battles against Yeti Zombie and other variants and there are some top-down support mechanics that are very reminiscent of boss mode.
3. What devices do I need to play Boss Mode?
Originally, Boss Mode was intended to be used with the Xbox Kinect or a SmartGlass compatible device. This was phased out in later patches and the mode can be played with a standard controller.
4. What kind of abilities do Crazy Dave and Dr. Zomboss have in Boss Mode?
Each boss has unique support abilities, including healing, reviving, buffing, deploying turrets, and offensive assists. Crazy Dave focuses more on healing and buffing, while Dr. Zomboss tends towards deploying zombified reinforcements and area-of-effect attacks.
5. How do you unlock the ability to play as the boss?
There is no unlocking required. If the mode is available, players can instantly choose to play as either Crazy Dave or Dr. Zomboss, provided a spot is open on the team.
6. How does Boss Mode affect the overall game?
A skilled Boss player can significantly impact the battlefield. By providing strategic support, they can help their team hold objectives, push through enemy defenses, and ultimately win the game. They provide the eyes in the sky for a strategic advantage.
7. Can enemies damage the Boss vehicle?
No, the Boss vehicle is invulnerable to damage. They cannot be shot down by other players.
8. Is there a specific map designed for Boss Mode?
No, Boss Mode can be played on any map within the game, provided the mode is enabled. The aerial view grants a unique strategic view of any map.
9. Does Boss Mode work on all game modes?
No, Boss Mode is not available in all game modes within the game. It is typically found in the more objective-based modes, like Gardens & Graveyards.
10. What’s the best strategy when playing in Boss Mode?
The key is to prioritize your support. Focus on reviving fallen teammates, keeping your team healed, and using offensive assists to clear out large groups of enemies or support your team pushes.
11. Is it possible to play Boss Mode solo?
No, Boss Mode is designed to be a team-based support role. It does not function properly in solo mode.
12. Is the Boss role more powerful than the regular character classes?
Not necessarily more powerful, but strategically vital. The Boss provides a different type of support that regular characters cannot. This provides a different strategic dynamic to the game.
13. What are the main differences between Crazy Dave and Dr. Zomboss in Boss Mode?
Crazy Dave is more of a defensive support role focusing on healing and buffs. Dr. Zomboss is more offensive, deploying zombified reinforcements and area of effect attacks.
14. Is Boss Mode considered a beginner-friendly role?
It depends on the player. While the controls are straightforward, effective strategic planning and resource allocation require some game knowledge. New players can still hop in and be effective, even without detailed game knowledge.
15. Can I earn achievements or rewards by playing Boss Mode?
Yes, playing as a boss contributes to overall in-game progression. There are specific achievements that are tied to playing as the boss and doing well.
Conclusion
Boss Mode in Plants vs. Zombies: Garden Warfare is a unique and dynamic way to experience the game. By shifting the perspective and focus, this mode offers a different layer of tactical depth to team play. By understanding the nuances of each boss character, players can effectively support their teams from the skies, making the Boss a critical role in any multiplayer match. While it may not be featured exactly the same in the other games, the overall concept of a top down support player is similar and a unique feature.