After Inc., the $2 Sequel to Plague Inc., Takes a Gamble on Premium Pricing

A Bold Move in a F2P-Dominated Market

Ndemic Creations' latest release, After Inc., launched on November 28th, 2024, priced at a surprisingly affordable $2. This decision, however, wasn't without its internal debate. Developer James Vaughn, in an interview with Game File, admitted to reservations about this pricing strategy in a mobile market saturated with free-to-play (F2P) games reliant on microtransactions. The game, a sequel to the immensely popular Plague Inc., shifts the narrative to a post-apocalyptic world where humanity rebuilds after the Necroa Virus pandemic.

Despite the seemingly brighter premise compared to its predecessors, Plague Inc. and Rebel Inc., Vaughn's concerns about the $2 price point are understandable. He acknowledges the challenges of gaining visibility in a crowded market dominated by F2P models. However, the success of their previous titles provided the confidence to proceed. Vaughn stated, "The only reason we can even consider releasing a premium game is because we have our existing juggernauts of Plague Inc. and Rebel Inc. which will help players find our games - and also show that there is still an appetite for intelligent, sophisticated strategy games on mobile. If we didn't have Plague Inc. to help - I think any game, no matter how good it is, would really struggle to get noticed."

A Commitment to Premium Value

Ndemic Creations has made a clear commitment to providing complete value for the purchase price. The App Store listing explicitly states the absence of "consumable microtransactions," and assures players that "Expansion Packs are buy once, play forever."

Initial reception has been positive. After Inc. currently sits in the top 5 paid games on the App Store, alongside titles like Plague Inc. and Stardew Valley. It also boasts a 4.77/5 rating on Google Play. Furthermore, a Steam early access version, titled After Inc. Revival, is slated for release in 2025, expanding the game's reach to PC players.

Rebuilding Civilization, One Settlement at a Time

After Inc. is described as a "mini" 4X grand strategy game with simulation elements. Players take on the challenge of rebuilding human society in a post-apocalyptic UK, utilizing salvaged resources from ruins to establish and manage settlements. The game features various buildings, essential services to maintain citizen happiness, and a choice of five leaders (ten on Steam), each with unique abilities.

The looming threat of zombies adds another layer of challenge, requiring players to strategically manage resources and combat the undead to secure expansion. Vaughn's lighthearted comment, "Nothing that can’t be solved with some nails stuck in a cricket bat!" encapsulates the game's blend of strategic depth and playful tone.