What are the Zombie People in The Last of Us?
The Last of Us, a popular video game and HBO series, has captivated audiences with its post-apocalyptic world and terrifying infected humans. But what exactly are these "zombies" and how do they come to be? In this article, we’ll delve into the world of The Last of Us and explore the origins and characteristics of these infected humans.
What are the Infected?
The infected in The Last of Us are not actually zombies, but rather humans who have been infected with a fungus called Ophiocordyceps unilateralis, also known as the "zombie fungus." This fungus, which is found in nature, infects ants and other insects, causing them to climb to high locations before producing spores that allow the fungus to spread to other ants.
In The Last of Us, the fungus is mutated to infect humans, causing a terrifying and deadly transformation. When a human is infected, the fungus grows inside their body, eventually taking control of their movements and thoughts. The infected humans become violent and aggressive, driven solely by the desire to spread the fungus to others.
How Do the Infected Become Clickers?
As the fungus grows inside the human body, it eventually leads to the development of the infamous Clickers. Clickers are humans who have been infected for at least a year, and their bodies have undergone significant changes. Their skin becomes hardened and decaying, their eyes turn white, and their ears grow long and sensitive, allowing them to use echolocation to navigate and hunt.
Clickers are the most terrifying and powerful of the infected, with the ability to regenerate lost limbs and withstand massive amounts of damage. They are also incredibly intelligent, using their echolocation to hunt and track their prey.
What is the Purpose of the Infected?
The infected humans in The Last of Us are not mindless monsters, but rather a key part of the game’s storyline. The fungus is designed to spread quickly and easily, infecting entire populations and bringing about the collapse of society.
The infected humans serve as a constant threat to the survivors of the outbreak, making it difficult for them to scavenge for supplies, find shelter, and form communities. The infected also provide a sense of danger and urgency, forcing survivors to constantly be on the lookout for threats and adapt to the ever-changing environment.
How Do Humans Become Infected?
Humans can become infected with the fungus through various means, including:
- Direct contact with an infected human’s bodily fluids
- Inhalation of spores or fungal particles
- Touching or handling contaminated surfaces or objects
Once infected, the fungus grows inside the human body, eventually leading to the development of the Clicker stage. Humans can also become infected through indirect means, such as touching or handling infected insects or animals.
How Do the Infected Adapt to Their New Condition?
As the fungus grows inside the human body, it begins to adapt to its new host. The infected humans develop unique abilities and characteristics, such as:
- Enhanced strength and agility
- Increased resilience to damage
- Improved hearing and echolocation abilities
The infected humans also undergo significant physical changes, including:
- Skin discoloration and decay
- Eye whitening and decay
- Ear elongation and sensitivity
These changes allow the infected humans to adapt to their new environment and continue to survive in a world that is hostile to them.
Conclusion
The infected humans in The Last of Us are a terrifying and fascinating aspect of the game’s world. Through their unique abilities and characteristics, they provide a sense of danger and urgency, forcing survivors to adapt to the ever-changing environment. Whether you’re a seasoned survivor or a newcomer to the world of The Last of Us, the infected humans are a constant reminder of the dangers and uncertainties of the post-apocalyptic world.
Key Takeaways
- The infected in The Last of Us are not zombies, but rather humans infected with a mutated fungus
- The fungus grows inside the human body, eventually leading to the development of the Clicker stage
- Infected humans can become infected through direct or indirect means, including contact with bodily fluids, inhalation of spores, or touching contaminated surfaces
- The infected humans develop unique abilities and characteristics, including enhanced strength, resilience, and echolocation abilities
- The infected humans undergo significant physical changes, including skin discoloration, eye whitening, and ear elongation