In the world of video games, few narratives capture the imagination as vividly as “The Last of Us.” The game’s unique take on the zombie apocalypse centers around the Cordyceps fungus, a real-life parasitic fungus known to affect insects, but in this fictional universe, it wreaks havoc on humans. So, what are the zombies called in “The Last of Us”? They are known as the “Infected,” a term that underscores their tragic state—humans corrupted by a relentless fungus. Let’s delve into the biology, behavior, and evolution of these haunting creatures that define the game’s chilling atmosphere.
The Biology of the Infected
Infection Mechanism
The infection in “The Last of Us” begins with exposure to the mutant Cordyceps fungus. This parasitic invader targets the human brain, hijacking its functions and leading to a loss of higher cognitive abilities. The host’s behavior becomes erratic and aggressive, driven by the sole purpose of spreading the infection. The transformation is a grim reminder of how nature can turn against us.
Physical Transformation
Runners are the first stage of the infection, recognizable by their jerky movements and bloodshot eyes. As the infection progresses, the physical changes become more pronounced. Stalkers exhibit fungal growths that begin to breach their skin, while Clickers lose their ability to see entirely, relying instead on echolocation. The final stages, Bloaters and Shamblers, are grotesque, with massive fungal growths that render them almost unrecognizable as once-human.
Behavioral Patterns of the Infected
The Infected behave in a manner that is both terrifying and predictable. They are driven by a primal urge to attack any uninfected humans, showcasing a disturbing mix of human-like recognition and animalistic instincts. Their behavior varies with each stage of infection, providing players with unique challenges and strategies for survival.
Stages of Infection
- Runner: Recently infected, still possessing some human traits but highly aggressive.
- Stalker: More cunning, these Infected use stealth to ambush their prey.
- Clicker: Blind but deadly, using echolocation to hunt.
- Bloater/Shambler: Heavily armored with fungal growths, these stages present the toughest challenges.
The Evolution of the Infected
In “The Last of Us,” the Infected evolve through distinct stages, each more formidable than the last. This evolution is not just a gameplay mechanic; it reflects the relentless progression of the Cordyceps infection and its grip on humanity.
| Stage | Characteristics |
|---|---|
| Runner | Quick, aggressive, and still somewhat human-like |
| Stalker | Stealthy, with visible fungal growth |
| Clicker | Blind, uses echolocation, very strong |
| Bloater | Slow, heavy, with explosive fungal armor |
| Shambler | Similar to Bloaters but found in moist environments |
| Rat King | A rare amalgamation of several Infected, extremely dangerous |
Behind the Scenes
The creation of the Infected in “The Last of Us” involved a deep dive into the science of parasitic fungi. The developers drew inspiration from nature, incorporating real scientific principles into the game’s lore. This attention to detail not only enhances the game’s realism but also adds a layer of horror rooted in the possibility of real-world parallels.
The Real Horror: A World Overrun
The Infected represent more than just a physical threat—they symbolize the collapse of society, the loss of humanity, and the thin line between survival and savagery. As players navigate this world, they are forced to confront the terrifying reality of a world where the Infected roam free, a poignant metaphor for unchecked chaos.
Summary
The Infected in “The Last of Us” are a testament to the game’s rich storytelling and intricate world-building. Through their biological evolution and haunting behavior, they serve as both adversaries and symbols of a world teetering on the brink. As we explore the depths of this apocalyptic scenario, we are reminded of the delicate balance between humanity and nature, and the harrowing consequences when that balance is disrupted.
What are the zombies called in The Last of Us?
In The Last of Us, the zombies are referred to as Infected. This term encompasses several stages of infection caused by the Cordyceps fungus, including:
- Runners: Recently infected and highly aggressive.
- Stalkers: Stealthy, lurking in shadows.
- Clickers: Blind, using echolocation.
- Bloaters: Large and heavily armored.
- Shamblers: Acidic variants found in wet environments.
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FAQs about the Infected in The Last of Us
What are the stages of infection in The Last of Us?
The stages of infection include Runners, Stalkers, Clickers, Bloaters or Shamblers, and the rare Rat King. Each stage exhibits distinct characteristics and behaviors, evolving from relatively quick and aggressive Runners to the formidable and heavily armored Bloaters or Shamblers over time.
How does the Cordyceps fungus affect humans in the game?
The Cordyceps fungus infects the human brain, altering its functions and driving the host to spread the infection. This leads to a loss of memories and higher cognitive abilities, causing the host to become aggressive and erratic.
What is the significance of the Clickers in The Last of Us?
Clickers are a pivotal stage in the infection process, characterized by blindness and reliance on echolocation. Their unique hunting method makes them iconic and creates a distinct gameplay challenge, showcasing the terrifying evolution of the Infected.
How do Bloaters differ from other types of Infected?
Bloaters are the most advanced stage of infection, covered in extensive fungal growths that provide them with armor. They are slow but incredibly strong, capable of causing severe damage and can even release toxic spores, making them extremely dangerous to encounter.
What role does the Rat King play in The Last of Us Part II?
The Rat King is an amalgamation of multiple infected hosts fused together over decades. This super-organism represents a significant challenge in the game, demonstrating the terrifying potential of the Cordyceps fungus when several infected remain in close proximity without external interference.