After Inc., the $2 Plague Inc. Sequel: A Risky, But Potentially Rewarding Venture
A Bold Pricing Strategy in a Competitive Market
Ndemic Creations' November 28, 2024 release of After Inc. at a price point of just $2 is a daring move, according to developer James Vaughn in a recent Game File interview. This sequel to the immensely popular Plague Inc. sees humanity rebuilding after the Necroa Virus catastrophe. While the premise offers a brighter outlook than its predecessors, Vaughn acknowledges the risk of a premium price in a mobile market dominated 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.
"Our existing successes with Plague Inc. and Rebel Inc. are the only reason we could even consider a premium release," Vaughn stated. "They help players find our games and demonstrate a continued demand for intelligent, sophisticated strategy games on mobile. Without Plague Inc.'s established presence, I believe any game, regardless of quality, would struggle to gain visibility."
Ndemic Creations assures players that all purchased content will remain accessible without further payments. The App Store listing explicitly states the absence of "consumable microtransactions" and confirms that "Expansion Packs are buy once, play forever," ensuring players receive full value for their purchase.
Initial success is promising. After Inc. currently holds a top-five position in the App Store's Top Paid Games category, trailing only Plague Inc. and Stardew Valley. It also boasts a 4.77/5 rating on Google Play. A Steam early access version, titled After Inc. Revival, is slated for a 2025 release, expanding the game's reach to PC players.
Introducing After Inc.: A Post-Apocalyptic 4X Strategy Experience
After Inc. is a compact 4X grand strategy and simulation game where players rebuild human civilization in a post-apocalyptic United Kingdom. Utilizing resources salvaged from the ruins of old, players establish multiple settlements, construct essential buildings (farms, lumberyards, etc.), and manage resources to maintain citizen well-being. Five leaders (ten on Steam), each with unique abilities, guide this rebuilding effort.
The challenge? Zombies. Players must contend with undead hordes to secure resources and expand their settlements. As Vaughn playfully notes, "Nothing that can’t be solved with some nails stuck in a cricket bat!"
