My memories of Plants vs. Zombies are quite hazy.
It was probably during a summer vacation in the 2000s. I was attending tutoring classes in the city and staying at my uncle's house. He had Plants vs. Zombies on his computer—the graphics were rough, and the bulky CRT monitor had color distortion due to its age, but I still played it enthusiastically.
It's been too long. Past times have turned into amber—crystal clear and treasured, yet blurry, making it hard to see what's hidden inside.
Actually, I haven't played Plants vs. Zombies since then. Partly due to a strict family environment, and partly because life got busy. But without a doubt, it was one of my happiest times, a small refuge amidst various hectic tutoring sessions.
So, when I learned that Plants vs. Zombies: Replanted was coming out, and that I could not only watch a short demo but also sit down and chat with Lead Designer Jake and PopCap General Manager Nick, the surprise and anticipation need no further elaboration.
Q: Why did PopCap choose to make Plants vs. Zombies: Replanted instead of continuing this globally popular IP with a sequel?
Jake:This has been discussed for many years, both within the developer team and among the "Plants vs. Zombies" community. Everyone hopes to see the most classic Plants vs. Zombies on new platforms in this new era. Moreover, Nick and I believe this is a great opportunity to bring the classic flavor familiar to one generation to the next generation of players.
In fact, the "Plants vs. Zombies" series has a huge fanbase worldwide, with new players joining the family every year. So, we ourselves are eager to give the old classic a fresh coat of paint. Moreover, we are confident that such classic gameplay can stand the test of time.
Nick:I agree with Jake's point. But I'd like to add that we've been thinking about how to better serve our audience. Given that a large part of our community is somewhat older, I think the best choice is to create a "nostalgia server," which is Plants vs. Zombies: Replanted.
Q: Are there any new plants added in Plants vs. Zombies: Replanted?
Jake:Unfortunately, no. We have restored the essence of the original game, keeping all classic mechanics and plants to pursue the most authentic experience.
Q: What new gameplay features will be in Plants vs. Zombies: Replanted?
Nick:We've prepared HD classic tower defense gameplay, along with three new modes: Challenge Mode, Co-op Mode, and Versus Mode. There's also a weather system—this one is definitely interesting.
Sunflowers go directly to sleep during overcast weather
Q: Regarding the new weather system in Plants vs. Zombies: Replanted—besides the special "Overcast" weather shown in the demo that puts Sunflowers to sleep, are there other new weather types or modes worth looking forward to?
Jake:There's a new mode called "R.I.P." which is very interesting—players need to complete an entire adventure run with only one life. Moreover, Crazy Dave will interfere with your plant choices in every level. So this mode will be very hardcore and challenging.
Also, I'd like to talk more about "Overcast"—this special weather mainly trains players to handle energy crises. As mentioned earlier, as the mission progresses, the types and numbers of zombies will increase, and combined with the weather system, this will bring significant challenges to players.
Additionally, we've designed different challenges based on various level terrains, such as pools and rooftops, so look forward to those.
Q: Can players play mini-games together in the Co-op Mode of Plants vs. Zombies: Replanted?
Jake:Sorry, mini-games can only be experienced in single-player mode. However, we have good news—Plants vs. Zombies: Replanted includes all the mini-games from the original version.
If you're still looking for some excitement, players can engage in PvP in Plants vs. Zombies: Replanted—one side defends while the other plays as zombies. We've spent a long time thinking about and developing this mode, so be sure to give it a try when it launches.
Q: How is currency handled in the Co-op Mode of Plants vs. Zombies: Replanted? How do two players spend money in Crazy Dave's shop? Is it pooled or separate?
Jake:It's pooled. Money collected by players goes into the same wallet. Spending works the same way.
Q: How long is the main story in Plants vs. Zombies: Replanted?
Nick:Up to 8 hours. Our main hope is that the three new modes will add replayability to the game.
Q: Lastly, any news on Garden Warfare 3?
Nick:Our current focus remains on Plants vs. Zombies: Replanted—so unfortunately, there is no new news you might want to hear at the moment.