It's been a remarkable 16 years since the initial release of Plants vs Zombies, and as we reflect on this iconic mobile series, it's clear how much it has evolved. From its humble beginnings to becoming a gaming icon, the journey of PvZ has been nothing short of extraordinary. With the anticipation for Plants vs Zombies 3 still building during its soft launch phase, fans are eagerly awaiting a return to the series' roots.

The story of Plants vs Zombies began with Popcap Games in the late 2000s, launching first on desktop in 2009. However, it was the transition to mobile in 2010, combined with the adoption of a free-to-play model, that propelled PvZ into the realm of superstardom. This move not only expanded its reach but also set a new standard for mobile gaming.

In 2012, EA acquired Popcap, marking a pivotal moment for the franchise. Despite the challenges and layoffs during the shift towards mobile, the release of Plants vs Zombies 2: It's About Time in 2013 solidified PvZ's status as a mobile gaming emblem.

Beyond Mobile: EA harbored grand visions for PvZ, aiming to make it a staple in console gaming as well. Titles like Plants vs Zombies: Garden Warfare and Plants vs Zombies: Battle for Neighborville introduced third-person shooter mechanics, diverging significantly from the original tower defense format. These games received mixed reviews, reflecting the bold departure from the series' roots.

Currently, Plants vs Zombies 3: Welcome to Zomburbia is undergoing a major overhaul since its announcement in 2020. The game, which was taken offline after a soft launch, is now promising a return to form with a fresh art style and a revival of the classic tower defense gameplay that fans adore.

If you're keen to explore more within the genre that Plants vs Zombies helped popularize on mobile, be sure to check out our curated list of the top 25 best tower defense games available on iOS and Android. Dive in and discover what's on offer in the world of strategic defense gaming.