Plants vs. Zombies 2 - Far Future: Sci-Fi Zombies - A Game Review

Plants vs. Zombies 2 - Far Future
Image Credit: EA/PopCap Games

Introduction

Plants vs. Zombies 2 (PvZ2), developed by PopCap Games and published by Electronic Arts (EA), has remained a beloved tower defense game since its release in 2013. Among its many exciting worlds, Far Future stands out as one of the most unique and challenging. This sci-fi-themed world introduces futuristic zombies, high-tech plants, and gravity-defying mechanics that keep players engaged. In this review, we’ll explore the gameplay, mechanics, zombies, plants, and overall experience of Far Future.

Gameplay and Mechanics

The Far Future world is the sixth area unlocked in PvZ2, following Dark Ages. Unlike previous worlds, it introduces several new mechanics:

1. Gravity and Magnetic Fields

One of the most innovative features is the introduction of magnetic fields that affect both plants and zombies. Some zombies wear magnetic armor, which can be removed by Magnet-shroom, a plant that pulls off their metallic defenses. Additionally, gravity anomalies appear in certain levels, causing zombies to float or plants to shift positions, adding a fresh layer of strategy.

2. Laser and Energy-Based Plants

Far Future introduces several high-tech plants:

Laser Bean: Fires a continuous laser beam, piercing through multiple zombies.
Blover: A wind-based plant that blows away floating zombies.
Citron: A defensive plant that fires a powerful energy blast.
Infini-nut: A futuristic Wall-nut with a force field that regenerates over time.

These plants require strategic placement to maximize their effectiveness, especially against the new zombie types.

Zombies of Far Future

The zombies in Far Future are some of the most creative in the game, featuring robotic and cybernetic enhancements:

1. Mecha-Football Zombie

A heavily armored zombie that charges forward, requiring strong defenses or Magnet-shroom to weaken it.

2. Jetpack Zombie

Flies over plants, making ground-based defenses useless unless countered with Blover or other anti-air plants.

3. Robo-Cone Zombie

A futuristic version of the Conehead Zombie, with a reinforced metal helmet that must be removed.

4. Gargantuar Prime

The ultimate boss of Far Future, this massive robotic zombie fires lasers and requires concentrated firepower to defeat.

Level Design and Challenges

The Far Future levels are designed to test players’ adaptability:

Gravity Shifts: Some stages have low gravity, causing zombies to float, requiring Blover or other countermeasures.
Magnetic Fields: Zombies with metal armor must be stripped before they can be easily defeated.
Energy Tiles: Special tiles boost plant attacks, encouraging strategic placement.

The difficulty ramps up significantly, making Far Future one of the tougher worlds in PvZ2.

Visuals and Soundtrack

The sci-fi aesthetic is well-executed, with neon colors, holographic UI elements, and robotic sound effects. The soundtrack features electronic beats that fit the futuristic theme perfectly.

Final Verdict

Far Future is one of the most innovative and challenging worlds in Plants vs. Zombies 2. With its gravity mechanics, high-tech plants, and robotic zombies, it offers a fresh experience while staying true to the game’s core mechanics.

Pros:
✔ Unique gravity and magnetic mechanics
✔ Creative plant and zombie designs
✔ Challenging and engaging levels

Cons:
❌ Some levels can feel overly difficult
❌ Requires specific plant strategies, limiting flexibility