After Inc.: A $2 Gamble in a Free-to-Play World

Ndemic Creations' bold pricing strategy for its latest release, After Inc., has raised eyebrows. Launched on November 28th, 2024, at a price point of just $2, the sequel to the wildly popular Plague Inc. is a gamble, according to developer James Vaughn. In an interview with Game File, Vaughn voiced his apprehension about this pricing decision in a mobile market dominated by free-to-play (F2P) games laden with microtransactions.

Despite his concerns, the success of Plague Inc. and Rebel Inc. provided the confidence to move forward. 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 is committed to a fair pricing model. All purchased content is accessible without additional costs. The App Store listing explicitly states "no consumable microtransactions" and promises "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, trailing only Plague Inc. and Stardew Valley. It boasts a 4.77/5 star rating on Google Play. A Steam Early Access version, titled After Inc. Revival, is slated for a 2025 release.

What is After Inc.?

After Inc. is a 4X grand strategy simulation game. Players rebuild human civilization in a post-apocalyptic UK, utilizing resources from ruins to establish settlements. Gameplay involves constructing buildings, managing resources, and ensuring citizen well-being. Five leaders (ten on Steam), each with unique abilities, are available to guide the rebuilding process.

The challenge? Zombies. Players must contend with the undead threat while expanding their settlements. Vaughn assures players, "Nothing that can’t be solved with some nails stuck in a cricket bat!"