Which is More Fun: Plants vs. Zombies 3 or 2? A Comparative Analysis of the Gameplay in Plants vs. Zombies 3 and 2

Many people must have played the game Plants vs. Zombies when they were young, so I think the Plants vs. Zombies series has always been a classic in tower defense games. From the first generation to the current third generation, each version has brought different joys to players. The question of which is better, Plants vs. Zombies 3 or 2, has sparked widespread discussion among players with the release of Plants vs. Zombies 3. Today, I will compare these two games from aspects such as gameplay, art style, and strategic depth to help you find the version that suits you best.

I. Gameplay and Innovation

Since its launch in 2013, Plants vs. Zombies 2 has won a large fan base with its rich variety of plants, diverse level designs, and world map modes. It continues the cartoon style of the original, with bright colors and humorous character designs, creating an overall light and pleasant visual experience. The game includes multiple time and space backgrounds (such as ancient Egypt, pirate harbor, etc.), each world having unique zombies and mechanisms, making it quite strategic. In comparison, Plants vs. Zombies 3 has made significant adjustments in gameplay. First, it adopts a vertical screen mode with a more modern art style, making it more suitable for mobile operation. It simplifies UI design and some mechanisms, such as automatic sun production, lowering the entry barrier for new players. However, this also makes some veteran players feel that the strategic aspect has decreased, and the art style is less recognizable than the previous work. Nevertheless, the introduction of a new "plant evolution" system allows plants to be upgraded and gain new abilities, adding an element of cultivation.

II. Level Design and Difficulty

The level design in Plants vs. Zombies 2 is more varied, featuring not only the regular mode but also endless challenges and mini-games, offering high replayability. However, some later levels are very difficult, sometimes even requiring the purchase of powerful plants through in-game purchases to pass, which has been criticized by players. Plants vs. Zombies 3 is currently still in the testing phase, with fewer levels, but a faster pace, making it suitable for playing during fragmented times. However, Plants vs. Zombies 3 has removed some classic gameplay elements (like mini-game modes), so its long-term playability remains to be seen.

III. In-App Purchases and Game Balance

The in-app purchase elements in Plants vs. Zombies 2 are quite prominent, with some rare plants obtainable only through in-game purchases, affecting the experience of some players. However, Plants vs. Zombies 3 appears to lean more towards a free-to-play model, though there are still some microtransactions. Personally, I feel that the overall balance is slightly better in PVZ3 compared to PVZ2.

In conclusion, if you are a player who values strategic depth and enjoys challenging diverse levels and complex tactical combinations, then Plants vs. Zombies 2 might be more suitable for you. But if you prefer a more relaxed and casual gaming experience and are comfortable with vertical screen operations on your phone, then Plants vs. Zombies 3 is worth a try. So, whether Plants vs. Zombies 3 or 2 is better really depends on your gaming preferences. Each title has its own characteristics; Plants vs. Zombies 2 is classic and enduring, while Plants vs. Zombies 3 aligns more with the trends of modern mobile games. Which one do you prefer?