After Inc., the sequel to Plague Inc., launches at a daring $2 price point, a risky strategy acknowledged by developer James Vaughn of Ndemic Creations. This article explores the reasoning behind this unconventional pricing model in a market saturated with free-to-play mobile games.
A Gamble in a F2P-Dominated Market
Released on November 28th, 2024, After Inc. presents a brighter, more optimistic scenario than its predecessors, contrasting with the bleakness of Plague Inc. and Rebel Inc. Despite this positive shift, Vaughn voiced concerns about the $2 price tag in an interview with Game File. The mobile gaming landscape, heavily populated by free-to-play games with in-app purchases, presented a significant challenge. However, the success of their prior titles fueled their decision. 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."
Ndemic Creations assures players that all purchased content will remain accessible without further costs. The App Store listing emphasizes the absence of consumable microtransactions, declaring, "Expansion Packs are buy once, play forever."
Initial success suggests the risk may be paying off. After Inc. currently holds a top-five position in the App Store's paid games category, trailing closely behind Plague Inc. and Stardew Valley, and boasts a 4.77-star rating on Google Play. A Steam early access version, titled After Inc. Revival, is slated for release in 2025, expanding the game's reach to PC players.
What is After Inc.?
After Inc. is a compact 4X grand strategy and simulation game where players rebuild human civilization following the events of Plague Inc. Players establish multiple settlements across a post-apocalyptic, yet vibrant, United Kingdom, utilizing salvaged resources from ruins to construct buildings and provide essential services. Five leaders (ten on Steam), each with unique abilities, guide this rebuilding effort. The looming threat of roaming zombies adds an extra layer of challenge to resource gathering and expansion. Vaughn confidently asserts, "Nothing that can’t be solved with some nails stuck in a cricket bat!"
