The Last of Us immerses players in a harrowing world ravaged by a pandemic caused by the Cordyceps fungus, a real-life parasite that primarily infects ants. In this dystopian universe, however, the fungus also targets humans, taking control of their minds and bodies, instigating violent behavior and, ultimately, cannibalism.
The contagion spreads rapidly through direct bites and airborne spores, which makes it highly infectious. After infection, symptoms can surface within mere hours, and complete transformation occurs within two days.
Confronting a post-apocalyptic landscape populated by these monstrous beings leads one to hope to remain far from the clutches of the infected. Notably, there are six classifications of infected individuals, each defined by specific phases of infection, traits, and danger levels. Below, we offer a detailed ranking of these grotesque entities based on attributes such as speed, strength, appearance, and their terrifying aesthetics.
6 Runners
Stage 1: Run For Your Life
Runners epitomize the initial phase of Cordyceps infection, manifesting within 24 to 48 hours post-infection. At this stage, they are still human but have lost control of their senses as the fungus begins to commandeer their brains.
Renowned for their speed and aggression, Runners can swiftly attack perceived threats, embodying the agility of a fully-fit individual. Their appearance is still reminiscent of a human, with only early signs of fungal growth visible on their heads and arms. Identifying a Runner is easy: they exhibit lost eyes, thinning hair, and pale skin.
The Runners’ unsettling behavior is marked by pain-driven moans, shifting quickly to violent outbursts when they encounter potential prey. Some theorize that, due to their recent infection, a part of the original human personality remains trapped within. This theory, alongside their haunting expressions, amplifies their horror. However, they are also relatively easy to dispatch compared to later stages of infection, putting them at the bottom of our list.
5 Shamblers
Stage 4-2: An Indie Infection
Shamblers, introduced in The Last of Us Part II, represent a variant of the fourth stage of infection and symbolize the evolution of the Bloater stage. Their transformation takes years, often exceeding two decades, as they develop a bloated appearance due to excessive water exposure.
Shamblers are potent and formidable foes with a slow-moving demeanor yet capable of unleashing damage in both close and long-range engagements. They can hurl toxic spores, known amongst fans as “spore bombs, ”that add to their lethality. Therefore, close encounters are to be avoided at all costs.
Distinctive in appearance, Shamblers exhibit grotesque disfigurements from prolonged fungus exposure. Their intimidating presence can instill fear into the hearts of survivors, even though they have a limited role within the game’s narrative.
4 Bloaters
Stage 4-1: Original Ones
Bloaters are fully transformed into the fourth stage of the Cordyceps infection, often found in areas where they can thrive, such as dark, enclosed spaces. Their transformation, which can span over a decade, makes them a rare but extremely dangerous adversary.
Possessing incredible strength, Bloaters can inflict severe damage from any distance, using corrosive “spore bombs” as a deadly weapon. Their bodies, primarily consumed by the fungus, serve as natural armor, making them more resilient to attacks.
To eliminate a Bloater, players must employ explosives or fire while keeping a safe distance. Their frequent appearances throughout the game ensure a thrilling and tense atmosphere for players, reminiscent of unforgettable encounters, such as the generator scene in Pittsburgh that many gamers dread to relive.
3 Stalkers
Stage 2: Smart Ones
Stalkers embody the second phase of infection, strategically positioning them as one of the most perplexing foes. Their transformation duration can range from two weeks to a year, making them cunning opponents that display heightened intelligence.
These infected merge the agility of Runners with the stealth of Clickers and the brutality of Bloaters, thus becoming incredibly difficult to outsmart or defeat. Stalkers meticulously plan their attacks, biding their time before pouncing on unsuspecting victims.
Stalkers are typically found in moist, dark environments where their stealth capabilities are most effective. Their visual appearance shows significant fungal growth, with parts of their faces obscured by the infection, leading to a haunting and unsettling figure.
The thought of facing an intelligent infected being is enough to induce anxiety amongst the game’s survivors. Stalkers are prominently featured in critical segments of The Last of Us Part II, earning them respect within the gaming community.
2 The Rat King
Stage? ??: Infected Megazord
The Rat King could be considered the fifth and final stage of Cordyceps infection; however, the exact classification remains uncertain due to the unique nature of this being. This monstrous entity is a grotesque amalgamation of various infected types, including Runners, Stalkers, Clickers, and Bloaters, resembling a disfigured Megazord of terror.
Such a horrifying transformation is rare, necessitating special conditions—primarily dark, closed spaces crowded with infected, and a timespan exceeding 25 years to develop fully. This is why the Rat King only appears once, within the eerie confines of the Seattle hospital basement.
Although it’s a formidable foe, its singular appearance limits its impact in the overall narrative, preventing it from claiming the top spot in our ranking.
1 Clickers
Stage 3: Marketing Kings
Clickers are the third stage of Cordyceps infection and undeniably the most iconic type among the infected. With a transformation timeline extending beyond a year, they can emerge in any environment, thanks to their adaptability.
Possessing greater speed and strength than their forerunners, Clickers are both agile and lethal. The grotesque fungal growth overtaking their bodies contributes to their formidable resistance, although this comes at the cost of their sight. With their eyes consumed by fungus, Clickers utilize echolocation, emitting a distinct clicking sound to navigate their surroundings.
Their appearance is stark, with severed ties to their human forms; Clickers’ heads resemble massive mushrooms, rendering them nearly unrecognizable. The Clickers have become synonymous with The Last of Us franchise, instantly recognizable by their chilling sound effects and haunting presence.
In conclusion, if you mention The Last of Us, it is almost certain that Clickers will come to mind; they are the enduring face of this unforgettable game universe.
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