Garden Warfare Review: Arena Shooter Still Works After 12 Years

Plants vs. Zombies: Garden Warfare takes the familiar tower defense formula and turns it into a chaotic arena shooter. The result is a game that knows exactly what it wants to be: silly, fast, and built for friends. It succeeds more often than it fails.

Trailer, via Plants vs. Zombies.

The Arena Format

The core of Garden Warfare is the arena mode, where teams of four battle each other across small maps. Each player picks a plant or zombie class, and each class has a distinct set of abilities. The game rewards teamwork and punishes solo aggression. Matches move fast, rarely lasting past five minutes.

Classes and Abilities

The variety of classes is the game’s strongest point. Players can choose from the standard cast of plants and zombies, each with unique skills:

1. Peashooter: the reliable front-line fighter who fires a steady stream of peas.
2. Wall-nut: a tank who absorbs damage and blocks shots.
3. Snow Pea: a support plant who slows enemies with frost.
4. Zombie Football Head: a brute who charges forward and tackles.
5. Imp: a fast, sneaky attacker who burrows underground.

Each class feels distinct, and the mix keeps matches fresh.

Co-op and Challenges

Outside the main arena mode, there’s a co-op campaign where players fight waves of enemies. It’s a simple mode, but it serves as a good introduction to the game’s mechanics. There’s also a challenge mode where players complete objectives in shorter sessions.

These modes don’t offer much depth, but they’re fun for short sessions.

Presentation

The game looks bright and colorful, with a cartoonish style that suits its tone. Character animations are expressive, and the sound design adds to the chaos. It’s a visually appealing package that never takes itself too seriously.

Multiplayer

The multiplayer is where the game shines brightest. Playing with friends online is a joy. The matchmaking works well, and the game handles large groups smoothly. It’s a game best enjoyed with others.

Length

The campaign is short, and the arena mode doesn’t offer much beyond the initial roster of characters. The game doesn’t push players to stay long-term, though the multiplayer keeps bringing people back.

Hard Numbers

• Platforms: PS3, PS4, PC, X360
• Genre: Arena shooter
• Developer: Electronic Arts
• Critical score: 8.0/10

Plants vs. Zombies: Garden Warfare isn’t a deep game, but it doesn’t need to be. It’s a fun, accessible shooter that rewards skill and teamwork. The arena mode is the star, and it’s one of the better multiplayer experiences on PS4 and Xbox One.

Score: 8 of 10.

arena shooter · co-op · EA · Garden Warfare · Plants vs Zombies