Why are there no variants in BFN?

Why are there no variants in BFN?

Introduction

Battle for Neighborville (BFN) is the latest installment in the Plants vs. Zombies franchise, and while it has received praise for its addictive multiplayer mode and charming visuals, one thing that’s missing is the concept of variants. Variants, which were present in its predecessor, Garden Warfare 2, allowed players to customize their characters with unique abilities and skins. So, why did the developers choose to omit this feature in BFN?

The Reason behind the Absence of Variants

According to an interview with the game’s developers, the absence of variants in BFN was a deliberate design choice. The developers wanted to focus on creating a more streamlined and balanced gameplay experience, and variants were seen as a hindrance to this goal. They believed that the complexity of variants would add too much depth to the game, making it less accessible to new players.

Other Reasons for the Omission

Additionally, the developers mentioned that the resources required to create and balance variants would have been a significant investment, taking away from the development of other features. They also expressed concerns that variants would have introduced too much complexity to the game’s matchmaking system, making it difficult to create fair and balanced matches.

What’s the Alternative?

So, without variants, what’s the alternative for players looking for customization options? In BFN, players can customize their characters with four different loadouts, each with its own unique set of abilities and skills. This system allows players to create a personalized playstyle, but it’s not the same as having a unique variant with its own abilities and skin.

Impact on the Game’s Multiplayer

The absence of variants has also had an impact on the game’s multiplayer mode. Without variants, the game’s PvP matches are more predictable, making it easier for opponents to counter each other’s moves. This has led to a more strategic gameplay experience, but some players may find it less exciting than the chaos and unpredictability of variants.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the absence of variants in BFN was a deliberate design choice aimed at creating a more streamlined and balanced gameplay experience. While it may be disappointing for players who enjoyed the customization options of Garden Warfare 2, the developers’ goal was to create a more accessible and engaging game for new players. Time will tell if this decision will pay off, but for now, players will have to make do with the game’s four loadout options.

What do you think about the absence of variants in BFN? Share your thoughts in the comments below!