What is the Fifth Stage Infected in The Last of Us?
The Last of Us, a critically acclaimed video game and television series, has captivated audiences with its gripping storyline and eerie atmosphere. One of the most fascinating aspects of the game is the Cordyceps Brain Infection, a fungal disease that turns humans into terrifying creatures. In this article, we will delve into the fifth stage of the infected, also known as the Rat King.
The Stages of Infection
Before we dive into the Rat King, let’s briefly discuss the stages of infection in The Last of Us. The process begins when a human is infected with the Cordyceps fungus, which grows inside the host’s body. The stages of infection are as follows:
- Runner: The initial stage of infection, characterized by a human who is still mobile and able to communicate.
- Stalker: The second stage, where the infected individual becomes more aggressive and begins to lose their cognitive abilities.
- Clicker: The third stage, marked by the infected’s complete loss of vision and the development of a distinctive clicking sound.
- Bloaters: The fourth stage, where the infected’s body begins to decay, and they become even more aggressive.
- Shamblers: The fifth stage, which is characterized by a complete loss of mobility and the development of a grotesque, bloated appearance.
The Rat King: The Fifth Stage of Infection
The Rat King is the fifth and final stage of the Cordyceps Brain Infection. It is a rare and terrifying mutation that occurs when a bloater or shambler is infected with the fungus. The Rat King is a massive, grotesque creature that is composed of multiple infected individuals, all connected by fungal tendrils.
Characteristics of the Rat King
The Rat King is a formidable and deadly creature, with the following characteristics:
- Massive size: The Rat King is enormous, with some specimens reaching sizes of over 10 feet in length.
- Fungal tendrils: The Rat King is connected to other infected individuals by long, thin fungal tendrils that allow it to sense its surroundings and communicate with other infected.
- Deadly spores: The Rat King can release massive amounts of spores, which can infect other humans and spread the disease.
- Intelligent: Despite its monstrous appearance, the Rat King is surprisingly intelligent and able to adapt to its surroundings.
Conclusion
The Rat King is a terrifying and fascinating aspect of The Last of Us, and its characteristics make it a formidable opponent for any human who dares to confront it. Whether you’re a gamer or a fan of the television series, the Rat King is a creature that will leave you on the edge of your seat.