The release of Plants vs. Zombies: Garden Warfare 2 (GW2) brought with it a wave of new merchandise, including a fresh line of action figures and toy sets. These updated collectibles reignited interest in the franchise’s physical offerings, but a pressing question remains among fans and collectors: Are the GW2 Plants vs. Zombies toys actually better than the original figures from the first game's era? To answer this, we need to examine design quality, articulation, durability, packaging, and how they resonate with both children and adult collectors.
Design Evolution: From Simple to Sophisticated
The original Plants vs. Zombies toys, released during the peak of the first game’s popularity around 2009–2013, were primarily aimed at younger audiences. They featured basic sculpts, limited paint details, and minimal accessories. Characters like Peashooter, Sunflower, and Gargantuar were recognizable but often lacked the expressive flair seen in the digital versions.
In contrast, the GW2 toy line reflects a significant leap in design sophistication. With more dynamic character poses—such as Impfinity mid-jump or Captain Deadbeard wielding dual cutlasses—the figures capture the exaggerated, cartoonish energy of the sequel’s aesthetic. The molds are sharper, with finer textures on leaves, armor, and zombie rags. Paint applications are more precise, using layered techniques to highlight facial expressions and costume elements.
Tip: Look for GW2 figures with tamper-proof sealed packaging if you plan to keep them as collectibles—this helps preserve resale value.Articulation and Playability Comparison
One of the most tangible improvements in the GW2 toy line is articulation. While the original figures were largely static—often one or two points of movement at best—the GW2 versions typically feature 10+ points of articulation. This includes rotating shoulders, swivel wrists, hinged knees, and sometimes even ball-jointed heads, allowing for a wide range of poses that mirror in-game animations.
This enhanced mobility makes the GW2 toys far more engaging for imaginative play. Children can recreate battle scenes, set up defensive plant lines, or stage zombie invasions with greater realism. For adult collectors, articulated joints allow for dynamic display arrangements, enhancing shelf appeal.
However, increased articulation comes with trade-offs. Some early GW2 figures experienced joint looseness over time, especially in cheaper retail variants. The original figures, while less poseable, were often sturdier due to simpler construction and thicker plastic.
Material Quality and Durability
Durability is a critical factor when comparing toy lines, particularly for families with young children. The original Plants vs. Zombies figures used a heavier polyvinyl chloride (PVC) blend, making them resistant to snapping under rough handling. Their lack of small, protruding parts also reduced breakage risks.
The GW2 toys, by comparison, use lighter ABS plastic to accommodate intricate detailing and articulation. While this allows for finer features, it also increases vulnerability to stress fractures—especially in thin limbs or weapon attachments. Reports from consumer forums indicate that sunflower stems and pea shooter barrels are common breakage points after repeated play.
“Modern toy design prioritizes visual fidelity over ruggedness. GW2 figures look incredible on the shelf, but they’re not built for backyard battles.” — Marcus Lin, Toy Industry Analyst at PlayCollective Insights
Comprehensive Feature Comparison
| Feature | Original Figures (2009–2013) | GW2 Figures (2016–Present) |
|---|---|---|
| Articulation | 1–3 points (static poses) | 8–12 points (highly poseable) |
| Paint Detail | Basic color blocking | Premium shading, highlights, eye detail |
| Material | Thick PVC, durable | Lightweight ABS, prone to cracking |
| Accessories | Rare; mostly none | Frequent (weapons, pets, alternate heads) |
| Packaging | Simple blister cards | Themed dioramas, window boxes |
| Target Audience | Children (ages 5–10) | Collectors & older kids (8+) |
| Availability | Widely available (retired) | Limited runs, harder to find |
Collector Appeal and Market Value
For adult collectors, the GW2 toy line offers significantly more appeal. Limited edition releases—like the 2017 \"Zomboss Commander\" figure or the glow-in-the-dark variants—have become sought-after items on secondary markets. Some rare GW2 figures now sell for 3–5 times their original retail price on auction sites.
The original figures, while nostalgic, never achieved the same collector status. Most were mass-produced without special editions, and their simpler designs don’t stand out on modern display shelves. However, complete-in-box sets of early Peashooters or Wall-nuts in mint condition have started gaining interest among retro gaming memorabilia enthusiasts.
Mini Case Study: The Rise of the GW2 Pea Pod
In 2018, a limited-edition GW2 Pea Pod three-pack was released exclusively through GameStop. Featuring articulated legs, interchangeable pea types (snow, fire, and electric), and LED-lit eyes, it was praised for innovation. Within six months, resellers listed the set for $40–$60, compared to its $14.99 MSRP. By 2023, sealed units had sold for over $120 at collector conventions.
This spike in value underscores a shift in how Plants vs. Zombies toys are perceived—not just as playthings, but as investment-grade collectibles. The original figures, despite their cultural significance, never saw similar appreciation.
Practical Buying Checklist
When deciding between original and GW2 figures, consider the following before purchasing:
- Intended Use: Is it for play or display?
- Age of User: Younger kids may be better suited to sturdier originals.
- Budget: GW2 figures often cost more and may require aftermarket purchases.
- Rarity: Check production numbers and exclusivity.
- Condition: Sealed packages retain higher resale value.
- Compatibility: Do accessories or bases connect across figures?
Frequently Asked Questions
Are GW2 figures compatible with original Plants vs. Zombies playsets?
Generally, no. The GW2 toys are slightly larger and use different base connectors. Early playsets lack the ports needed for GW2 vehicle docking or interactive features.
Do GW2 toys come with in-game codes or bonuses?
A few early GW2 multipacks included redeemable codes for character skins in the game. However, these promotions ended in 2019, and current releases do not include digital content.
Which line holds up better over time?
The original figures resist yellowing and brittleness better due to their PVC composition. GW2 ABS plastics are more prone to UV degradation, so display away from direct sunlight to prevent fading and cracking.
Conclusion: Are They Better?
\"Better\" depends on what you value. If your priority is durability and simplicity for young children, the original Plants vs. Zombies toys remain a solid choice. Their chunky builds and straightforward designs withstand years of active play.
But if you're looking for detail, expressiveness, and collectible potential, the GW2 figures are undeniably superior. They reflect modern toy engineering standards, with richer storytelling potential and stronger visual impact. For fans who grew up with the franchise and now appreciate it through a collector’s lens, GW2 represents a mature evolution of the brand’s physical presence.
In essence, the GW2 toys aren't just improved versions—they're a different category altogether. They cater to a more discerning audience, balancing nostalgia with contemporary design excellence.
💬 Have you made the switch to GW2 figures? Share your collection journey or favorite finds in the comments below—we’d love to hear what makes your Plants vs. Zombies display unique!
