Unveiling the A.K.E.E. in Plants vs. Zombies 2: A Comprehensive Guide

The A.K.E.E., or Autonomous Katapulting Ejectomatic Emitter, is a unique and strategically valuable plant in Plants vs. Zombies 2 (PvZ2). Acquired in the Lost City world, this plant launches bouncing projectiles that target multiple zombies, making it particularly effective against clustered enemies and those hiding behind shields. Despite its somewhat awkward acronym, the A.K.E.E. is a powerful addition to any player’s plant arsenal.

Deep Dive into A.K.E.E.’s Mechanics

The A.K.E.E. fires projectiles that bounce from zombie to zombie, dealing damage to each one it hits. This bouncing effect is crucial for overcoming zombies that use shields or are positioned behind other zombies. Unlike plants that fire directly at the first zombie in a lane, the A.K.E.E.’s bouncing projectiles can hit multiple targets with a single shot, maximizing its damage output.

The A.K.E.E. has a moderate sun cost, balancing its effectiveness with accessibility early in a level. Its recharge time is relatively quick, allowing for frequent deployment. However, the damage per hit is not exceptionally high compared to other offensive plants, so its strength lies in its ability to target multiple enemies.

Strategic Uses of A.K.E.E.

The A.K.E.E. shines in several specific scenarios:

• Overcoming Shielded Zombies: Zombies like the Shield Zombie and Barrel Roller Zombie are easily bypassed with A.K.E.E.’s bouncing attack, making it a valuable counter in stages where these enemies are common.
• Dealing with Clustered Enemies: When zombies group together in large numbers, the A.K.E.E. can damage multiple targets simultaneously, significantly slowing their advance.
• Supporting Other Plants: The A.K.E.E. can be used to weaken zombies, allowing more powerful, single-target plants to finish them off.
• Area Denial: Placing A.K.E.E. strategically can create a “no-go zone” for weaker zombies, forcing them to take a longer, more exposed path.

Optimizing A.K.E.E. Placement

Placement is key to maximizing the A.K.E.E.’s effectiveness. Consider these tips:

• Rear Ranks: Placing the A.K.E.E. in the back rows allows its projectiles to bounce through the entire lane, hitting as many zombies as possible.
• Behind Defensive Walls: Protecting the A.K.E.E. with wall plants ensures it can continue firing for longer.
• Combining with Slowing Plants: Pairing the A.K.E.E. with plants like the Iceberg Lettuce or Winter Melon slows down zombies, giving the A.K.E.E. more time to inflict damage.
• Plant Food Power: When boosted with Plant Food, the A.K.E.E. unleashes a volley of bouncing projectiles, dealing massive damage to the entire lane.

Is A.K.E.E. worth the sun?

While not a powerhouse like some other plants, the A.K.E.E. provides a unique utility with its bouncing attack. If you are looking for a plant to overcome zombies with shielding and groups of zombies, then A.K.E.E. is definitely a great choice.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about A.K.E.E.

Here are 15 frequently asked questions about the A.K.E.E. in Plants vs. Zombies 2, along with detailed answers:

1. What does A.K.E.E. stand for?

A.K.E.E. stands for Autonomous Katapulting Ejectomatic Emitter. The game itself acknowledges that the acronym is somewhat clunky, particularly the “Katapulting” part.

2. In which world is A.K.E.E. unlocked?

The A.K.E.E. is unlocked in the Lost City world of Plants vs. Zombies 2.

3. What is the sun cost of A.K.E.E.?

The A.K.E.E. typically costs 175 sun.

4. What type of damage does A.K.E.E. deal?

The A.K.E.E. deals normal damage with each bounce.

5. How does Plant Food affect A.K.E.E.?

When given Plant Food, the A.K.E.E. launches a rapid volley of bouncing projectiles, dealing significant damage to all zombies in its lane.

6. Is A.K.E.E. effective against all types of zombies?

A.K.E.E. is most effective against shielded zombies and tightly packed groups of zombies. It is less effective against single, high-health zombies.

7. Does A.K.E.E. have any weaknesses?

The A.K.E.E.’s main weakness is its relatively low damage per shot. It relies on its bouncing effect to maximize its damage output. It is also vulnerable to zombies that can destroy plants quickly.

8. Can A.K.E.E. hit zombies behind tombstones?

Yes, the A.K.E.E.’s bouncing projectiles can bypass tombstones and hit zombies behind them.

9. How does A.K.E.E. compare to other bouncing plants like the Bouncing Bulb?

The Bouncing Bulb has a different trajectory and targeting mechanic. The A.K.E.E. is generally considered more reliable for consistent damage across multiple targets in a lane.

10. What is the best strategy for using A.K.E.E.?

The best strategy is to place A.K.E.E. in the back rows to maximize the number of bounces. It also works well when supported by slowing plants or defensive wall plants.

11. Can the A.K.E.E. target flying zombies?

No, the A.K.E.E.’s projectiles cannot target flying zombies.

12. Is A.K.E.E. a good plant for Penny’s Pursuit?

Yes, A.K.E.E. can be very useful in Penny’s Pursuit, especially in levels with shielded zombies or large hordes.

13. Does A.K.E.E. work well with the Torchwood?

No, A.K.E.E.’s projectiles cannot be lit by Torchwood.

14. What are some plants that synergize well with A.K.E.E.?

Plants that synergize well with A.K.E.E. include:

• Iceberg Lettuce: Slows zombies down, allowing A.K.E.E. to hit them more frequently.
• Wall-nut/Tall-nut: Provides protection for the A.K.E.E.
• Winter Melon: Slows and damages zombies simultaneously.

15. Where does the A.K.E.E’s fruit inspiration come from?

A.K.E.E. is based on the Blighia sapida, known as ackee in English. Ackee is a plant that produces fruit. It is found in West Africa, the Caribbean, southern Florida, and Central America. Ripe ackee fruit is eaten as food and is considered a dietary staple in Jamaica.

Mastering A.K.E.E. for PvZ2 Success

The A.K.E.E. is a versatile and powerful plant in Plants vs. Zombies 2, offering a unique approach to dealing with shielded and clustered enemies. By understanding its mechanics, strengths, and weaknesses, players can effectively incorporate the A.K.E.E. into their strategies and conquer the zombie hordes. The strategic depth and engaging gameplay of PvZ2 demonstrate the potential of games for learning and problem-solving, a concept supported by organizations like the Games Learning Society. Find out more at GamesLearningSociety.org.