Ndemic Creations' latest title, After Inc., launched on November 28th, 2024, at a daring $2 price point. Developer James Vaughn, in a recent interview with Game File, admitted to reservations about this strategy in today's mobile market, dominated by free-to-play games laden with microtransactions. This sequel to the immensely popular Plague Inc. presents a brighter, post-apocalyptic scenario, following humanity's emergence from Necroa Virus bunkers.
Despite the optimistic premise, Vaughn voiced concerns about the $2 price tag's viability. However, the team's confidence stems from the established success of Plague Inc. and Rebel Inc., games which provide crucial visibility and demonstrate continued player interest in premium mobile strategy games. 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 assures players of a complete experience without additional costs. The App Store listing explicitly states "no consumable microtransactions" and promises that "Expansion Packs are buy once, play forever."
Initial reception has been positive. After Inc. currently holds a strong position in the App Store's Top Paid Games chart, and boasts a 4.77/5 rating on Google Play. A Steam early access version, titled After Inc. Revival, is also slated for release in 2025.
After Inc. is a blend of 4X grand strategy and simulation. Players rebuild human civilization across the UK, scavenging resources from ruins and establishing settlements. The challenge? A zombie infestation threatens progress. Players must manage resources, build essential structures (farms, lumberyards, etc.), and choose from five leaders (ten in the Steam version) to guide their communities. As Vaughn playfully put it, "Nothing that can’t be solved with some nails stuck in a cricket bat!"