The Peculiar Purpose of Bacon in Plants vs. Zombies: More Than Meets the Eye
The short answer is: Bacon in the original Plants vs. Zombies is essentially a currency manipulation tool, not a direct gameplay enhancer. Initially, it appears as a seemingly useless item costing 250 coins. It offers no immediate benefit during a level, and, on the surface, it seems like a waste of precious resources. However, the true purpose of bacon is revealed after you complete a level. Before you select a new plant for your arsenal or enter the shop, Crazy Dave will offer to buy the bacon back from you at an increased price, typically at a profit. Therefore, bacon’s primary purpose is to serve as a temporary investment that allows players to earn a few extra coins between levels, acting as a simple form of currency speculation within the game.
The Bacon Gamble: Understanding the Mechanics
How it Works
The mechanics behind bacon are very straightforward. Players purchase the bacon for 250 coins before starting a level. Then, immediately after completing the level and before choosing new seeds or entering the shop, Crazy Dave will approach and offer to buy it back. This is where the profit lies, as he will typically pay more than the initial 250 coins, though the exact return can vary. It is a reliable, though minimal, profit-making method.
Why it Exists
The inclusion of bacon adds a layer of quirky depth to Plants vs. Zombies. It’s a small, unique feature that differentiates the game from others. While the profit made from bacon is not substantial, it does offer players a small incentive to think strategically about their in-game currency. Moreover, it aligns perfectly with the game’s playful and unconventional tone, adding a touch of humor to an otherwise serious battle against the undead. The feature highlights Crazy Dave’s oddball character as well.
Beyond the Coins
While bacon’s main purpose is to gain a modest profit, it also subtly encourages players to engage with the game in a more holistic manner. Instead of focusing solely on battling zombies, players are given a small economic aspect to consider. The act of purchasing the bacon introduces a risk-reward element, albeit a minor one, that can keep players invested in the game’s mechanics.
Bacon and its Place in the Game’s Economy
Bacon’s role in the game’s economy is modest but not insignificant. The extra coins accrued over many levels can help players afford critical plant upgrades or new slots for planting. Though not a game-changer on its own, bacon, when used consistently, subtly influences your ability to acquire desired upgrades. It’s a slow-burn strategy that benefits players who take the time to understand its mechanics.
Frequently Asked Questions about Bacon in Plants vs. Zombies
1. Is the return on bacon always guaranteed?
Yes, the return is guaranteed. While the exact profit margin might fluctuate slightly, you will always get more coins from Crazy Dave than you initially spent purchasing the bacon.
2. Is buying bacon a good strategy for early-game currency?
Yes, buying bacon is a useful strategy for earning a bit of extra currency, especially in the early game when every coin counts.
3. Can I buy bacon multiple times per level?
No, you can only purchase one piece of bacon before starting a level.
4. Does bacon affect gameplay during a level?
No, bacon has absolutely no effect on gameplay during a level. It’s purely an economic tool used between levels.
5. Can I use bacon to attract zombies, like in other games?
Absolutely not. Bacon has no effect on zombies, and they have no interest in eating it in Plants vs. Zombies.
6. Are there any achievements related to bacon?
No, there are no specific achievements directly linked to purchasing or selling bacon.
7. Does the return on bacon increase later in the game?
The return on bacon is generally consistent throughout the game, although it might vary slightly, usually offering a small profit.
8. Is there a way to sell bacon for even more than what Crazy Dave offers?
No, Crazy Dave’s offer is the only way to make a profit on bacon. There are no other mechanics in the game that allow for increased bacon sales.
9. What if I forget to sell my bacon after a level?
You will not lose your bacon. It will remain with you until you sell it back to Crazy Dave.
10. Can I purchase bacon in any other way other than at the beginning of a level?
No, the game does not allow you to purchase bacon outside of the start-of-level prompt.
11. Are there other useless items like bacon in the game?
Bacon is unique in its purpose. There are other quirky items in the game, but none operate on the exact principle of temporary investment.
12. Does bacon’s presence change anything in the game’s code or data?
No, bacon’s presence in the game is very specific. There is no indication that it changes anything else in the game data.
13. If bacon is seemingly useless, why did the developers add it?
Bacon adds a unique element of quirky humour and economic strategy to the game, making it a stand-out feature of the original PvZ experience.
14. What happens if Crazy Dave’s inventory is full? Does that impact bacon?
Crazy Dave’s inventory has no impact on the bacon purchase and sale. Even if it seems full, he will still buy your bacon when offered.
15. Is bacon a necessary purchase to complete the game?
No, bacon is not necessary to complete the game. It is purely a tool for small profit, and it is optional. It does not affect progression.
Conclusion
In conclusion, bacon in Plants vs. Zombies is not a power-up or a gameplay-altering tool. Instead, it’s a small, strategic element designed to help players accumulate a few extra coins throughout their battles against the undead. Its value lies not in its direct impact on gameplay, but in its role as a temporary currency speculation device. This quirkiness is a part of the charm of Plants vs. Zombies and its often bizarre and unexpected elements. So, while it might not be the most powerful weapon in your arsenal, remember that purchasing and then selling bacon is a small way to boost your in-game wealth.