Plants vs. Zombies™: Replanted

Plants vs. Zombies™: Replanted is a remaster of the beloved original tower defense game that has generated mixed reactions among players. While the core gameplay remains intact and retains the charm of the original, many players feel the remaster falls short in execution. The game introduces quality-of-life improvements such as widescreen support, controller compatibility, and a speed-up button, but these are overshadowed by numerous bugs, glitches, and performance issues that were not present in the original.

Players also criticize the use of AI upscaling for graphics, which many believe compromises the art style and soul of the game. The absence of original developers' involvement and removal or alteration of key features like dynamic music further disappoint fans. The new content, including "Cloudy Day" levels and "Rest In Peace" mode, is seen as underwhelming and insufficient to justify the higher price compared to the original GOTY edition. Overall, while still playable and enjoyable for die-hard fans, the remaster is widely viewed as a cash grab with a lack of polish and respect for the franchise.

Highlights

Players praise the faithful retention of the original Plants vs. Zombies gameplay mechanics, which remain addictive and fun.

The introduction of widescreen and Steam Deck support, along with controller compatibility, is welcomed as a significant quality-of-life improvement.

The speed-up button, allowing up to 2.5x game speed, is appreciated for making grinding and achievements more manageable.

New modes like "Rest In Peace" and "Cloudy Day" levels add some fresh variety, and the inclusion of co-op and versus modes from console versions is noted positively despite bugs.

The art revamp is visually sharper, though opinions on AI upscaling vary.

Criticisms

The game suffers from numerous bugs and technical issues including crashes, freezing during high zombie counts, misaligned sprites, missing sounds, and UI glitches.

Many players are frustrated by the removal or poor implementation of dynamic music, which detracts from the game's atmosphere.

The use of AI upscaling for art assets is heavily criticized for producing inconsistent and soulless visuals, and the original artists were reportedly excluded from the project.

The new content is seen as minimal and not worth the steep price, especially when the original GOTY edition offers similar gameplay for a fraction of the cost.

Online multiplayer is absent or poorly implemented, limiting the social aspect.

Overall, the remaster feels rushed, underpolished, and like a cash grab rather than a respectful update.