Plague Inc. Sequel Defies Norms with $2 Price

After Inc., the $2 Sequel to Plague Inc.: A Risky Gamble?

Ndemic Creations' recent release of After Inc. at a price point of just $2 has sparked debate. Developer James Vaughn, in a recent interview with Game File, admitted to reservations about this pricing strategy in a mobile market saturated with free-to-play (F2P) games laden with microtransactions. The game, a sequel to the immensely popular Plague Inc., presents a less bleak, post-apocalyptic setting where players rebuild human civilization after a devastating virus.

Despite the seemingly optimistic premise, Vaughn voiced concerns that the $2 price tag might hinder the game's visibility. However, the success of Plague Inc. and Rebel Inc. provided the confidence to proceed, leveraging their established player base to attract attention to a premium-priced, sophisticated strategy game in a market dominated by F2P models. 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 committed to a consumer-friendly approach, promising no additional charges for purchased content. The App Store listing explicitly states the absence of consumable microtransactions and guarantees that expansion packs are "buy once, play forever." Initial reception has been positive, with After Inc. currently ranking highly in the App Store's Top Paid Games category and boasting a strong Google Play rating. A Steam early access version, titled After Inc. Revival, is slated for release in 2025.

What is After Inc.?

After Inc. is a blend of 4X grand strategy and simulation. Players are tasked with rebuilding society across the United Kingdom, utilizing salvaged resources from the ruins of civilization to establish and expand settlements. Resource management, infrastructure development, and citizen well-being are key elements, alongside the challenge of fending off zombie hordes. Players can choose from five leaders (ten in the Steam version), each possessing unique abilities. Vaughn playfully summarized the zombie threat: "Nothing that can’t be solved with some nails stuck in a cricket bat!"