Though it was initially revealed during the EA press conference at E3, we learned recently courtesy of Microsoft that PopCap’s Plants Vs. Zombies: Garden Warfare would release on Xbox One and Xbox 360 first and foremost. However, this timed exclusivity won’t stop it growing onto other platforms. Speaking with Joystiq, the studio’s producer Brian Lindley hinted that other devices are being considered:
“We’ll reveal more details about other platforms in the future.”
At the minute, the game is confirmed to release on the aforementioned Microsoft platforms and PC, too, when it launches in early 2014. With that said, the fact that the original Plants vs. Zombies became accessible on just about every possible gaming platform in due time strongly suggests that its spiritual sequel will take a similar course. There’s been no word yet as to how long Microsoft’s timed exclusive will persist, even still, it’s hard to imagine Plants vs. Zombies: Garden Warfare not sprouting up on Sony’s, and indeed other hardware eventually.
One thing that will remain in Microsoft’s camp, however, is the game’s supplementary Boss Mode; demonstrated during the Gamescom briefing by Russell Brand’s Evil Doctor Zomboss. This mechanic will also incorporate Kinect and SmartGlass functionality when it debuts alongside Plants Vs. Zombies: Garden Warfare early next year.
Perhaps one of the most intriguing elements of PopCap’s third-person action game, though, is the ability to play as a zombie. Not only that, but players will be able to customise their undead caricatures within various classes and in-game abilities. In terms of the organic defences, only four classes have been confirmed at this time: Chomper, Cactus, Peashooter and Sunflower.
Plants Vs. Zombies: Garden Warfare will launch first on Xbox One and Xbox 360 sometime in 2014. Although, judging by Lindley’s statements and the lucrative nature of the IP itself, you can readily expect Crazy Dave & Co. to make their appearance on other platforms in 2014, too.