Who is the Orange Guy in Plants vs. Zombies?
The “orange guy” you’re likely thinking of in the Plants vs. Zombies universe is Citron, a distinctive and powerful character. He’s not just any orange; Citron is a time-traveling, bounty-hunting orange from the future who has journeyed to the present to aid the plants in their fight against the undead horde. He’s a prominent figure in the Plants vs. Zombies: Garden Warfare series, known for his unique abilities and tank-like resilience.
Citron: More Than Just a Fruit
Citron’s design is instantly recognizable: a vibrant, anthropomorphic orange with a futuristic aesthetic. He’s not a typical plant; his backstory and abilities set him apart. He was introduced as a playable character in Plants vs. Zombies: Garden Warfare 2, where he serves as the tank class for the plant team.
Citron’s Abilities and Role
Citron’s primary strength lies in his transformation ability. He can quickly shift between two modes, allowing him to adapt to different combat situations:
- Transformation Mode: Citron can initially roll into a ball, allowing for faster movement across the battlefield. This lets him rapidly get into the heart of the action or quickly reposition himself.
- Attack Mode: Once transformed, Citron can unleash his offensive capabilities. He fires powerful plasma shots that deal significant damage, making him a formidable opponent on the front lines.
In Plants vs. Zombies 2, Citron retains his ability to launch plasma projectiles. He also uses a Plant Food ability that shoots a giant plasma ball capable of obliterating most mech-type zombies, flinging adjacent zombies into each other. This further reinforces his role as a powerful offensive and disruptive character.
A Citrus of Science: The Real-World Citron
It’s fascinating that the name “Citron” is also given to a real fruit, a small evergreen tree belonging to the Rutaceae family. The real-world citron (Citrus medica) is cultivated in various regions, especially the Mediterranean and the West Indies. However, it differs greatly from the familiar oranges we consume. The fruit is known for its thick peel, which is often candied and used in baking. Unlike oranges or lemons, the citron’s pulp is dry and contains very little juice, making the zest the most valued part.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Citron and Plants vs. Zombies
To further expand your understanding of Citron and his world, here are 15 frequently asked questions and their answers:
1. Is Citron an orange in the game?
Yes, in the Plants vs. Zombies: Garden Warfare games, Citron is explicitly depicted as an orange from the future. His appearance and backstory revolve around this concept.
2. What is Citron’s primary role in Plants vs. Zombies: Garden Warfare 2?
Citron is the tank class for the plant team in Plants vs. Zombies: Garden Warfare 2. He is built for soaking up damage while dishing out plasma attacks.
3. What is Citron’s unique ability in the Garden Warfare series?
Citron can transform between a fast-moving ball form and a powerful attack mode, making him a versatile character in combat.
4. Does Citron appear in Plants vs. Zombies 2?
Yes, Citron appears in Plants vs. Zombies 2, where he utilizes his plasma shooting abilities.
5. What does Citron’s Plant Food ability do in Plants vs. Zombies 2?
His Plant Food ability allows him to launch a huge plasma ball, which damages and destroys mech-type zombies while flinging others.
6. What real-world fruit is Citron based on?
Citron is based on the citron (Citrus medica), a citrus fruit used primarily for its zest rather than its juice.
7. Is the real-world citron the same as an orange?
No, while both are citrus fruits, the citron is distinct from oranges. Citron has a thick rind and dry pulp, unlike oranges which are juicy.
8. Who is Crazy Dave in Plants vs. Zombies?
Crazy Dave serves as the narrator and guide in the Plants vs. Zombies series. He introduces levels and helps players through the game, he’s also the shopkeeper for unique plants. His full name is revealed to be Crazetopher David Blazing III.
9. Who is Dr. Zomboss?
Dr. Edgar George Zomboss is the main antagonist in the Plants vs. Zombies franchise. He is a mad scientist leading the zombies against the plants and their owners.
10. Who is Stinky in Plants vs. Zombies?
Stinky the Snail is a character in the Zen Garden. He collects coins and is available for purchase from Crazy Dave.
11. What is a Gargantuar in Plants vs. Zombies?
Gargantuar is a large, powerful zombie character in the Plants vs. Zombies series and acts as a sort of boss or mini-boss.
12. Is Chomper male or female in Plants vs. Zombies?
In most installments, Chomper has been depicted as male, although in some recent content like Chompzilla it’s referred to as female creating some confusion.
13. How do you get Stumpy in Garden Warfare 2?
Grumpy Stumpy is rescued from the Zombie side of the Backyard Battleground after talking to Dave-bot 3000 for the first time.
14. What is Nightcap’s gender in Plants vs. Zombies?
Nightcap is genderfluid, a fact that aligns with the characteristics of some species of fungi in real life, making them the first confirmed LGBTQ+ character.
15. Are most citrus fruits hybrids?
Yes, nearly all modern citrus fruits available commercially are hybrids, either naturally occurring or man-made from the three original species: mandarin orange, citron, and pomelo.
Conclusion
Citron is more than just an orange; he is a vital part of the Plants vs. Zombies universe, embodying the creativity and fun that defines the franchise. From his unique time-traveling backstory to his powerful abilities and tank-like role in Plants vs. Zombies: Garden Warfare 2, Citron stands as one of the most memorable characters. His presence adds depth and strategic gameplay, ensuring he’s a fan favorite. Understanding his history and abilities gives players more reason to appreciate the intricate world of plants fighting back against the undead.