Are Clickers Real? Unpacking the Science (and Fiction) of The Last of Us

The short answer is a resounding no. Clickers, the terrifying, echolocating creatures from The Last of Us, aren’t real, at least not in the way they’re depicted in the game and TV series. They are a fictional creation based on a real fungus, but with a heavy dose of artistic license and scientific extrapolation. While the underlying science is fascinating and even a little unsettling, the leap to a Cordyceps-driven human apocalypse is, thankfully, firmly in the realm of science fiction.

The Real Cordyceps: Nature’s Mind Control

To understand why Clickers aren’t real, but feel plausible, we need to look at the actual Cordyceps fungus. There are thousands of species of Cordyceps, each adapted to infect a specific species of insect or arthropod. The most well-known is Ophiocordyceps unilateralis, often referred to as the “zombie-ant fungus.”

This fungus doesn’t just infect an ant; it essentially hijacks its brain. The Cordyceps grows inside the ant, controlling its behavior. The infected ant is compelled to leave its colony and climb to a specific height, where conditions are optimal for fungal growth. The fungus then forces the ant to clamp down onto a leaf with its mandibles, effectively securing its final resting place. Finally, a stalk erupts from the ant’s head, releasing spores to infect more ants.

It’s a truly gruesome and fascinating example of parasitic manipulation. The fungus has evolved highly specific mechanisms to target the ant’s nervous system, essentially turning it into a remote-controlled zombie.

Why Humans Are Safe (For Now)

The good news is that Ophiocordyceps unilateralis and other similar fungi only target insects. There are several reasons why a Cordyceps-style apocalypse is highly unlikely for humans:

• Species Specificity: These fungi are highly specialized. The traits that allow them to infect and control an ant are specific to the ant’s physiology and nervous system. It’s not easily transferable to another species, let alone a mammal with a complex brain and immune system.

• Immune System: Humans have a much more sophisticated immune system than insects. Our bodies are equipped to fight off a wide range of pathogens, including fungi.

• Body Temperature: Human body temperature is significantly higher than that of insects. Many fungi cannot thrive at our internal temperature.

• Genetic Barriers: The genetic differences between insects and humans are vast. It would require a massive evolutionary leap for a fungus that infects insects to suddenly be able to infect and control humans.

The Last of Us: Bridging Science and Imagination

The Last of Us takes the real science of Cordyceps and extrapolates it in a terrifying, albeit fictional, direction. The game imagines a scenario where a mutated strain of Cordyceps evolves to infect humans. This mutated fungus spreads rapidly, turning humans into various infected stages, culminating in the horrifying Clickers.

The Clickers are the result of long-term infection. The fungus has consumed much of their face, blinding them and forcing them to rely on echolocation, hence the characteristic clicking sounds. The fungal growth also grants them enhanced strength and aggression, making them formidable enemies.

While the underlying concept is rooted in real-world science, the reality is that the evolutionary leap required for a Cordyceps fungus to infect and control humans in this way is extremely improbable.

The Real Fungal Threat: Adapting to a Warmer World

While we can breathe a sigh of relief knowing that Clickers aren’t lurking around the corner, there is a real threat posed by fungi. As the planet warms due to climate change, some fungi are adapting to higher temperatures. This could potentially allow them to overcome our body’s natural defenses and cause more severe infections.

Moreover, the overuse of antifungal medications is leading to the emergence of drug-resistant fungi. This makes treating fungal infections increasingly challenging.

So, while we don’t have to worry about being turned into Clickers, we should be aware of the growing threat of fungal infections and the need for continued research and development of new antifungal treatments.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How do people become Clickers in The Last of Us?

In the fictional world of The Last of Us, people become Clickers after being infected with the Cordyceps fungus for a prolonged period, typically at least a year. The fungus gradually consumes their face, blinding them and causing grotesque fungal growths.

2. Can humans be infected by Cordyceps in real life?

Currently, no. There are no known cases of Cordyceps fungus infecting humans. The fungus is highly specialized to infect insects and other arthropods.

3. Is there a fungus that can control humans in real life?

While some parasites can influence human behavior, there’s no fungus that can completely control a human’s actions in the way depicted in The Last of Us.

4. Why can’t Cordyceps infect humans?

The primary reasons are species specificity, a more advanced human immune system, and higher internal body temperature. Cordyceps is adapted to infect insects, and it lacks the mechanisms to overcome human defenses.

5. Could Cordyceps evolve to control humans?

While evolution is always possible, the probability of Cordyceps evolving to infect and control humans is extremely low. It would require a massive evolutionary leap and overcoming significant biological barriers.

6. What would happen if a human ate a Cordyceps mushroom?

Cordyceps mushrooms are sometimes used in traditional medicine and as dietary supplements. Consuming small amounts is generally considered safe, but large quantities may cause adverse effects like headaches or allergies.

7. Can fungi evolve to infect humans more easily due to climate change?

Potentially, yes. Rising temperatures could allow some fungi to adapt to warmer environments, making it easier for them to overcome human body temperature defenses. This could increase the risk of fungal infections.

8. Is there a cure for the Cordyceps infection in The Last of Us?

In The Last of Us, the possibility of a cure based on Ellie’s immunity is explored but never fully resolved.

9. How accurate is the science in The Last of Us?

The Last of Us takes real scientific concepts, like the Cordyceps fungus, and extrapolates them for dramatic effect. While the underlying science is sound, the likelihood of a human Cordyceps apocalypse is very low.

10. Where did the Cordyceps infection originate in The Last of Us?

In the game’s lore, the Cordyceps infection is believed to have originated from infected crops in South America.

11. What’s the real threat posed by fungi?

The real fungal threats include rising antifungal resistance and the potential for fungi to adapt to warmer temperatures, leading to more severe and difficult-to-treat infections.

12. Are Clickers more dangerous than other infected types in The Last of Us?

Yes, Clickers are generally considered more dangerous due to their enhanced strength, aggression, and echolocation abilities.

13. Are there any real-life examples of parasites that can control behavior?

Yes, there are many examples of parasites that can manipulate the behavior of their hosts. These parasites often target insects or other animals, but some can also affect human behavior to a lesser extent.

14. How can Clickers be killed effectively in The Last of Us?

Clickers are particularly vulnerable to Molotov cocktails.

15. Where can I learn more about the science of games?

You can explore the Games Learning Society for research and insights on how games engage learning. Visit GamesLearningSociety.org to delve deeper into the field.

In conclusion, while the idea of Clickers is terrifying, it remains firmly in the realm of fiction. However, the real-world science of Cordyceps and the potential threats posed by fungal infections serve as a reminder that nature can be both fascinating and potentially dangerous. For more insights on the intersection of games and learning, be sure to check out the Games Learning Society.