Plague Inc: Evolved
" Engaging casual strategy simulation with unique pathogen evolution but repetitive gameplay "
Plague Inc: Evolved Review
Plague Inc: Evolved is widely recognized as a classic and innovative strategy simulation game that has endured over a decade with continuous updates. Players control a pathogen, evolving it strategically to infect and wipe out humanity while managing global responses. The gameplay loop is simple yet addictive, revolving around evolving symptoms, transmissions, and abilities while balancing detection and cure progress. Many players appreciate the campaign and official scenarios, as well as the creative custom scenario editor and workshop content.
However, the game has notable limitations, including repetitive mechanics, a heavy reliance on RNG, and a somewhat minimalistic interaction style that some find monotonous over time. The graphics and sound are functional but not exceptional, and the UI can feel dated. Despite these criticisms, it remains enjoyable for casual and strategy fans, especially at a discounted price. The Cure mode adds a fresh challenge but can be difficult to master. Overall, it’s a solid game with niche appeal and lasting replay value for dedicated players.
Highlights
Players praise Plague Inc: Evolved for its unique and engaging gameplay mechanics centered on strategic pathogen evolution and global infection. The campaign mode is well-designed, offering varied scenarios that teach game mechanics effectively. The custom scenario editor and workshop content add creativity and replayability. The game’s concept and execution remain relevant and fun even after many years, with a dedicated fan base appreciating the continuous updates. Visuals and audio, while modest, support the gameplay adequately. The game’s educational element and dark humor are also frequently highlighted as positive aspects.
Criticisms
Common criticisms focus on the repetitive gameplay loop that can become stale after multiple runs, with limited player interaction beyond clicking bubbles and managing upgrades. The heavy RNG and formulaic strategies reduce the depth and replay value for some players. The Cure mode and multiplayer achievements can be frustrating or poorly balanced. The UI and graphics feel outdated, and some players report bugs, especially with custom scenarios. Pricing at full cost is questioned by many, who recommend purchasing only during sales. Additionally, the game’s linear progression in later plague types reduces creative freedom.
Pros
- • Engaging strategic gameplay focused on evolving pathogens and global infection.
- • Well-designed campaign with varied, educational scenarios.
- • Creative custom scenario editor and extensive workshop content.
- • Addictive gameplay loop for short to medium play sessions.
- • Continuous updates and developer support over many years.
- • Unique concept blending strategy and dark humor.
- • Functional visuals and sound that support gameplay.
Cons
- • Gameplay becomes repetitive and formulaic after multiple runs.
- • Heavy reliance on RNG reduces strategic depth.
- • Limited player interaction beyond clicking bubbles.
- • Outdated UI and graphics feel dated.
- • Custom scenarios sometimes buggy and unsupported.
- • Cure mode can be frustrating and hard to master.
- • Multiplayer achievements disliked by some players.
Rating Criteria
About This Game
Plague Inc: Evolved is a unique mix of high strategy and terrifyingly realistic simulation. Your pathogen has just infected 'Patient Zero' - now you must bring about the end of human history by evolving a deadly, global Plague whilst adapting against everything humanity can do to defend itself.
Plague Inc. is so realistic that the CDC even asked the developer to come and speak about the infection models in the game!
“The game creates a compelling world that engages the public on serious public health topics.”
- Ali S. Khan, CDC
Over 190 million players have been infected by Plague Inc. already. Now, Plague Inc: Evolved combines the original critically acclaimed gameplay with significant, all-new features for PC including multiplayer, user-generated content support, improved graphics and lots more. 
- 10 Different Disease Types – Master every pathogen; from bacteria to bio-weapons and mind control to zombies, end humanity by any means possible – different diseases will need radically different approaches.
- 23 Unique Scenarios – Adapt your strategy; scenarios create further challenges for your pandemic – how will you handle a new strain of Swine Flu, or infect a world in Ice Age?
- Hyper-Realistic World – Strategize in the real world; advanced AI and use of real-world data and events make Plague Inc: Evolved a highly authentic simulation of a world-ending pathogen. Even the CDC likes it!
- Competitive Multiplayer - The world is unlucky enough to be infected with two plagues, but how will you win the battle for genetic dominance against your opponent? Players get all new evolutions, abilities and genes to help them fight for global control and destroy their opponent!
- Co-Operative Mode - Two different diseases team up to infect and destroy the world together but Humanity has new tricks up its sleeve to fight back! Work closely with your partner and use brand-new genes, traits and strategies to smash cure labs all over the world before they eradicate you.
- Contagious Content Creator - Hit the lab and develop your own custom scenarios - creating new plague types, worlds and in-game events. Sophisticated tools support user-generated content to let players bring their deadliest ideas to life and share them on Steam Workshop. With over 10,000 custom scenarios already released - there is always something new to infect!
- Blinding Graphics - Full 3D disease models take you closer to your plague than ever before, city-cams show humanity's struggle at street level, and the body scanner highlights the full effect of your mutations, organ by organ.
- Deadly Data - Geek out with stats and graphs; monitor infection and death levels, track government reactions and cure efforts, then review your plague's success (or failure!) with full game replays.
- And much more... - Including speed runs, Mega-Brutal difficulty and genetic modification... Plus loads of new disease types and scenarios in future (free!) updates.
Plague Inc: Evolved is a unique mix of high strategy and terrifyingly realistic simulation. Your pathogen has just infected 'Patient Zero' - now you must bring about the end of human history by evolving a deadly, global Plague whilst adapting against everything humanity can do to defend itself.