After Inc., the sequel to Plague Inc., launches at a daring $2 price point, a move that has its developer, James Vaughn of Ndemic Creations, slightly apprehensive. This article explores the reasoning behind this risky pricing strategy in the face of a mobile gaming market saturated with free-to-play options.
A Gamble in a Competitive Market
Released on November 28th, 2024, After Inc. offers a more optimistic narrative than its predecessors, depicting humanity's rebuilding efforts after a devastating Necroa Virus outbreak. Despite this positive premise, Vaughn expressed reservations about the $2 price tag, citing the prevalence of free-to-play games laden with microtransactions. However, the team's confidence stems from the established success of Plague Inc. and Rebel Inc., games which provide a significant marketing advantage and demonstrate consumer interest in premium, complex 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."
A Premium Experience, No Microtransactions
Ndemic Creations guarantees a complete experience for the $2 purchase price, explicitly stating there are no consumable microtransactions and that any expansion packs are "buy once, play forever." This commitment to a fair pricing model is evident in the game's strong performance; it currently holds a top-five position in the App Store's paid games category and boasts a 4.77/5 rating on Google Play. Furthermore, an early access version titled After Inc. Revival is slated for a 2025 Steam release, expanding the game's reach to PC players.
Rebuilding Civilization in a Post-Apocalyptic World
After Inc. is a blend of 4X grand strategy and simulation, challenging players to rebuild human society in a post-Plague Inc. world. Set in a vibrant, post-apocalyptic United Kingdom, players establish settlements, utilizing salvaged resources from ruins to construct buildings and provide essential services. Five unique leaders (ten on Steam) offer diverse strategic options. The challenge, however, extends beyond resource management; players must also contend with the ever-present threat of roaming zombies. Vaughn assures players, "Nothing that can’t be solved with some nails stuck in a cricket bat!" The game offers a compelling blend of strategy, resource management and survival against a zombie threat.
