Plague Inc. Sequel "After Inc" Released for $2, Challenging Norm

After Inc., the $2 Plague Inc. Sequel: A Risky but Rewarding Venture?

Ndemic Creations' latest release, After Inc., launched on November 28th, 2024, at a daringly low price point of $2. Developer James Vaughn, in an interview with Game File, admitted to some apprehension regarding this pricing strategy in a mobile market dominated by free-to-play (F2P) models laden with microtransactions. This sequel to the wildly popular Plague Inc. sees humanity rebuilding after the Necroa Virus devastation.

While After Inc. offers a brighter premise than its predecessors, Vaughn's concerns are understandable. The saturation of F2P games presents a significant challenge for premium titles. However, the success of Plague Inc. and Rebel Inc. provided the confidence to proceed, demonstrating a continued demand for sophisticated strategy games on mobile platforms. 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 with a promise of no additional costs for purchased content. The App Store listing explicitly states "no consumable microtransactions" and assures 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, closely trailing Plague Inc. and Stardew Valley, and boasts a 4.77/5 rating on Google Play. A Steam early access version, titled After Inc. Revival, is also slated for a 2025 release.

What is After Inc.?

After Inc. is a blend of 4X grand strategy and simulation. Players rebuild human society across the UK in a vibrant, post-apocalyptic setting. Utilizing resources salvaged from ruins, players establish settlements, construct essential buildings (farms, lumberyards, etc.), and manage citizen needs. Five leaders (ten on Steam), each with unique abilities, guide this rebuilding effort.

The challenge? Zombies. Players must contend with these undead threats to secure resources and expand their settlements. As Vaughn confidently stated, "Nothing that can’t be solved with some nails stuck in a cricket bat!"