Battle for Neighborville is a refreshing new addition to the Plants vs Zombies franchise. The title introduces a whole new look for PvZ and welcomes several new game modes for you and your friends to enjoy. Being the third addition to a series of extremely popular third person shooters, this game has a lot to live up to. But it’s safe to say, Battle for Neighborville does just that. Fan favourite elements from previous PvZ games are brought forward and intertwined with new elements, so whilst appealing to old time players, there is a refreshing new air.
New game modes
All the base modes fans are familiar with are reimagined in a new style. But Popcap takes it one step further by introducing all new competitive game modes. The title also presents the ‘social hub’ where players can experiment with new builds, and explore new PvE zones. These areas have a variety of activities for you to enjoy, like platforming challenges and puzzles. These activities can be completed either solo or co-op, with split-screen mode available on consoles.
The social hub is enjoyable just to hang around in alongside taking part in its spectrum of activities. There are simple things to love, like dance contests and the shooting gallery. This feature definitely showcases the bubbly personality behind Battle for Neighborville. Between friendly games and the sandbox style battle arena sitting nicely between home bases, everything ties this bright game together. Little details are implemented to reinforce this, like neon signs which perfectly fit into the aesthetic and cartoonish sound design. All of this flows neatly into the roster of characters available for play.
All new classes
As well as new game modes becoming available, half a dozen new classes are introduced from you to choose from. With seven points to spend for customisation, this element is great for players who wish to optimise their class to their own play style. Which also makes for a unique gameplay each time you change class. Further customisation can be taken by unlocking cosmetics for your characters. These elements can be unlocked using in-game currency, but more ‘extravagant’ items can be unlocked with premium currency. Which is kept behind in-game purchases.
Regarding the online PvE campaigns, they can become a little boring and repetitive over time. The multiplayer maps make it a little difficult to map out where the chaos is occurring. This factor is easily overlooked when you’re playing alongside the new roster and utilising your abilities though. The new roster is extremely amusing and makes for some comedic co-op moments.
Final thoughts
As a whole, this game will be familiar to those who loved Garden Warfare but want a new lease of life in the Plants v Zombies franchise. It’s chaotic, frantic, and so enjoyable with friends. The franchise has once again produced a charming title which will always leave you waiting around for another match.
