From Clicker to Bloater: Unraveling the Infected Lifecycle in The Last of Us
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The grim reality of The Last of Us presents a terrifying vision of a world ravaged by the Cordyceps brain infection (CBI). Understanding the progression of this infection, from its initial stages to the horrifying apex predators, is crucial to appreciating the intricacies of this post-apocalyptic world. A common question among fans is: Do Clickers become Bloaters? The answer, based on established lore and observed progression, is generally yes, Clickers can become Bloaters under the right conditions, primarily involving time and continued exposure to the Cordyceps fungus. The lifecycle of the infected is a brutal and unforgiving one, and it is important to learn the progression of what it takes to become a Bloater.
Understanding the Infected Stages
The Cordyceps infection doesn’t just turn people into mindless zombies; it transforms them through distinct stages, each with its own characteristics and threats.
- Runners: These are the freshly infected, still retaining some semblance of their humanity. They are fast, aggressive, and the most recently “turned.” Transformation into a Runner occurs rapidly, sometimes within hours of exposure to the fungus, but generally within two days.
- Stalkers: After a period of time, Runners transition into Stalkers. These infected hide in the shadows, waiting to ambush their prey. The fungus begins to noticeably deform their faces, and they are significantly more resilient than Runners.
- Clickers: Clickers represent a more advanced stage of the infection. Years of fungal growth have completely obscured their faces, rendering them blind. They navigate using echolocation, emitting distinct clicking sounds that give them their name. The fungal plates covering their heads provide substantial armor, making them much harder to kill.
- Bloaters: These are the rarest and most formidable of the infected. Bloaters are the result of years, even decades, of continuous Cordyceps growth. Their bodies are grotesquely swollen and covered in thick, fungal armor. They are incredibly strong and resistant to damage, posing a significant threat to anyone who encounters them.
- Shamblers: Introduced in The Last of Us Part II, Shamblers are similar to Bloaters but are found in areas with high humidity and moisture. They can emit clouds of toxic spores and spray acidic projectiles, making them dangerous at both close and long ranges.
- Rattlers: Also introduced in The Last of Us Part II, these infected are covered in hardened fungal plates that rattle when they move.
The Clicker to Bloater Transition
The journey from Clicker to Bloater is a slow and gruesome one. It requires years of continued fungal growth and a suitable environment for the Cordyceps to thrive. The key factor is time. An infected human needs to remain undisturbed for an extended period, allowing the fungus to completely overtake their body.
The article states, “So the only infected who make it further down the stages are those who are successful hunters. In other words, a Runner who doesn’t eat, can’t become a Stalker, who can’t become a Clicker, who can’t become a Bloater.” This indicates that survival and continued exposure/nourishment of the Cordyceps are crucial for progression through the stages. The infection depends on a human host to thrive.
The Importance of the Cordyceps Fungus
The Cordyceps fungus is the driving force behind the transformation of humans into these terrifying creatures. It invades the host’s brain, taking control of their motor functions and driving them to spread the infection. As the fungus grows, it consumes the host’s body, leading to the physical deformities and enhanced strength seen in Clickers and Bloaters.
Environmental Factors
The environment also plays a role in the development of the infected. Humid and dark environments are ideal for Cordyceps growth. This is why Shamblers, a variant of Bloaters, are found in areas with high moisture levels.
The Rarity of Bloaters
Bloaters are relatively rare compared to other types of infected. This is because the conditions required for their development are not always present. It takes a considerable amount of time and a stable environment for a Clicker to evolve into a Bloater. This scarcity makes them all the more terrifying when encountered.
FAQs: Delving Deeper into the Infected
1. How long does it take for a Clicker to become a Bloater?
The exact timeframe is not explicitly stated, but it takes several years, potentially even a decade or more, for a Clicker to evolve into a Bloater. The fungus needs ample time to completely consume and transform the host’s body.
2. What makes Bloaters so dangerous?
Bloaters are incredibly strong and resilient. Their thick fungal armor provides significant protection against most weapons. They can also unleash mycotoxin pouches that explode on impact, causing significant damage. Their brute strength and ability to instantly kill make them exceptionally dangerous.
3. Are Bloaters blind like Clickers?
Yes, like Clickers, Bloaters are also blind and rely on echolocation to navigate. The fungal growth completely covers their faces, rendering their vision useless.
4. Can other infected types evolve into Bloaters?
It is generally believed that Clickers are the primary precursor to Bloaters. While it’s theoretically possible for other infected types to evolve, the timeline and conditions are most conducive to Clickers becoming Bloaters.
5. How do Bloaters reproduce?
The article does not explicitly mention how Bloaters reproduce, but it is implied that they can spread the Cordyceps fungus through their mycotoxin pouches and close-range attacks.
6. Are there any known weaknesses of Bloaters?
Yes, Bloaters are particularly vulnerable to fire. Molotov cocktails and other fire-based weapons can quickly incinerate them. Explosives are also effective against Bloaters, although it may take multiple blasts to bring them down.
7. What is the difference between Bloaters and Shamblers?
While both are large and heavily infected, Shamblers are typically found in wet and humid environments. They can release clouds of toxic spores and spray acidic projectiles, which Bloaters cannot.
8. Are Bloaters more intelligent than other infected?
There is no evidence to suggest that Bloaters are more intelligent. They primarily rely on brute strength and instinct.
9. Can Ellie’s immunity protect her from Bloaters?
While Ellie’s immunity protects her from the Cordyceps infection, it does not make her invulnerable to Bloaters. She is still susceptible to their physical attacks and the damage caused by their mycotoxin pouches.
10. Is there any way to prevent a Clicker from becoming a Bloater?
Theoretically, killing a Clicker would prevent it from becoming a Bloater. However, once the infection has progressed to the Clicker stage, the transformation is irreversible.
11. What is the mycotoxin pouch that Bloaters possess?
These are sacs filled with corrosive and noxious substances produced by the Cordyceps fungus, which Bloaters can rupture to expel deadly projectiles.
12. Are Bloaters always found in groups?
No, Bloaters can be found alone or in groups. Their presence depends on the environment and the availability of hosts.
13. How does the fungal armor of a Bloater develop?
The fungal armor develops over years of continuous Cordyceps growth. The fungus slowly replaces the host’s skin and tissues with a thick, protective layer.
14. Why are some infected able to evolve while others remain Runners or Stalkers?
Several factors contribute to the evolution of infected, including the strength of the host’s immune system, the environment, and the amount of time they remain undisturbed.
15. Where can I learn more about the science of video games?
You can learn more about the intersection of video games and education on the GamesLearningSociety.org website. The Games Learning Society explores how games can be used for learning and development.
Conclusion
The journey from Clicker to Bloater is a harrowing testament to the power of the Cordyceps brain infection. It is a process that requires time, a suitable environment, and an undisturbed host. While Bloaters represent the pinnacle of fungal horror in The Last of Us, understanding their origins and weaknesses is essential for survival in this unforgiving world.