After Inc., the $2 Plague Inc. Sequel: A Risky but Rewarding Gamble?
Ndemic Creations' recent release of After Inc. on November 28th, 2024, for a mere $2, represents a bold pricing strategy in today's mobile gaming market. Developer James Vaughn, in an interview with Game File, admitted to some apprehension regarding this decision. The game, a sequel to the immensely popular Plague Inc., casts players in a post-apocalyptic world where humanity rebuilds after the Necroa Virus devastation.
While After Inc. offers a brighter premise than its predecessors, Vaughn voiced concerns about the mobile market's dominance by free-to-play (F2P) games laden with microtransactions. However, the team's confidence stems from the established success of Plague Inc. and Rebel Inc., games that have proven a continued audience exists for sophisticated strategy games on mobile devices. Vaughn stated, "The only reason we can even consider releasing a premium game is because we have our existing juggernauts...which will help players find our games - and also show that there is still an appetite for intelligent, sophisticated strategy games on mobile."
Ndemic Creations has pledged a commitment to players, promising all purchased content will remain accessible without further payments. The App Store listing explicitly states the absence of "consumable microtransactions" and assures that "Expansion Packs are buy once, play forever."
Initial reception has been positive. After Inc. currently holds a strong position in the App Store's Top Paid Games category, and boasts a 4.77/5 rating on Google Play. Furthermore, an early access version, After Inc. Revival, is slated for a 2025 Steam release, expanding the game's reach to PC players.
What is After Inc.? A Post-Apocalyptic Rebuild
After Inc. is a compact 4X grand strategy and simulation game. Players must rebuild human civilization across the United Kingdom, utilizing the remnants of old structures for resources and constructing settlements. The game features a vibrant post-apocalyptic setting and challenges players to manage resources, provide essential services to keep citizens happy, and combat the ever-present threat of zombies. Players can choose from five leaders (ten in the Steam version), each with unique abilities.
Vaughn playfully assures players, "Nothing that can’t be solved with some nails stuck in a cricket bat!" This lighthearted comment reflects the game's blend of challenging strategic gameplay and a touch of humor.
