The Dark Age in Plants vs. Zombies: A Compendium
In the popular tower defense game series, Plants vs. Zombies, the Dark Age world is the 7th world, which was the 5th to be chronologically released. Unlike other worlds in the series, the Dark Ages level takes place in a nighttime setting, evoking the feeling of medieval Europe, where the majority of humanity lived in a state of darkness and ignorance.
What does the name "Dark Age" connote?
The name "Dark Age" carries connotations of a bygone era characterized by confusion, chaos, and relative ignorance. It is thought to have started after the fall of the Western Roman Empire and ended with the rise of feudalism, during which there was an apparent decline in culture and scientific progress. In contrast, the name "Light Ages" was used during the Renaissance and Enlightenment period, which marked a reversal of this decline and significant advancements in knowledge and philosophy.
Characteristics of the Dark Ages in PvZ
In Plants vs. Zombies, the Dark Ages world embodies the gloom of an oppressive dark environment. The background is portrayed as a foreboding, dark and misty landscape, symbolizing fear and uncertainty. The introduction of the night setting signifies the end of the warm glow of the previous world.
Main Features in the Dark Ages World
Here are the key attributes of the Dark Ages:
- Zombies, Graveyards, and Portals: This world hosts the most intense and diversified zombie attacks in the PvZ series, with three main types: the Flying Brain, the Dancing Bug, and the Wizard King. The Zombies are the most aggressive in this environment, with each type creating chaos and disarray as they march forth from tombstones and open portals that connect to new areas or different dimensions.
- New and Improved Levels: The levels in Dark Ages are filled with special obstacles, puzzles, and power-ups. The paths become more complicated, involving dead ends, hidden side paths, and secret passageways.
- Nighttime Battles: Throughout the levels, the plant selection is based on combating creatures of the night, whereas daytime plants prove less efficient in this world. These night-blooming species include the Cherry Bomb and the Lightning Rod, adapted to the changing environment by emitting light that repels zombies.
- Lighting and Power-Ups: The availability of dark areas and dimly-lit zones enhances the players’ ability to strategically decide which plants to use.
How to Win at Levels in the Dark Ages?
To win at level 15, for example:
- Plant two Laser Beans. Fire a blue portal into a nearby wall and concentrate on the platforms underneath once you’ve got the Zombie-destroying plants rolling.
- Continue using the blue portal whenever possible to bring in further help.
- Destroy any zombies entering the maze from the graveyards without neglecting those emerging through portals.
- Master the art of using blue portals to manipulate the timing of your moves and exploit zombie weaknesses.