Afterlife

Afterlife is a 1996 god game from LucasArts, designed by Michael Stemmle and released for DOS, Windows and the Mac. It’s often described as SimCity for Heaven and Hell, and it’s one of the funniest management games ever made.

You’re a Demiurge, responsible for the afterlife of a planet of EMBOs (Ethically Mature Biological Organisms). Your job is to build Heaven and Hell so that every soul gets the rewards or punishments it deserves.

Gameplay

Afterlife borrows its basic structure from SimCity, but adds a layer of humour and moral complexity.

• Two cities: Build Heaven and Hell side by side.
• Sins and virtues: Each sin and virtue needs its own zone, from Envy and Wrath to Charity and Peace.
• Workers: Angels and demons need training facilities and housing.
• Reincarnation: Send souls back to the planet.
• Advisors: Aria Goodhalo and Jasper Wormsworth give witty commentary.
• Bad Things: Disasters like the Disco Inferno and Birds of Paradise.

The graphics are colourful and detailed, with plenty of jokes in the building designs, and Peter McConnell’s music is excellent. The game can be confusing at first, as its systems aren’t always well explained, and the late game can become a slog.

Verdict

Afterlife is a clever, funny city builder with a unique theme. Its systems can be opaque, but its humour and creativity make it a joy. It won Macworld’s 1996 Best Simulation Game award, though it didn’t sell as well as LucasArts hoped.