The world of The Last of Us is an incredibly dangerous one. That’s because of the overwhelming number of infected dominating the world. Humanity has been decimated and overrun and each day is a fight for survival. The first The Last of Us game was released in June 2013 and introduced players to the Cordyceps brain infection (CBI). This fungal infection is what caused humans to turn into the Infected. Once the Cordyceps parasite has infected a person, they transform into volatile zombie-like creatures. There are numerous stages of infection, which take different forms. Each stage features unique physical characteristics and traits. And in The Last of Us, Clickers are one of the most advanced and dangerous stages of the infection.
With the recent announcement of a “ground up” remake of the original game – officially titled The Last of Us Part I – you’re probably getting ready to dive back into this terrifying world. Or perhaps you’ll be checking out the series for the very first time. Either way, you likely want to know what you can expect from the series’ deadly and most synonymous enemies – Clickers.
Clicker
What are Clickers?
Infected are split into four distinct stages of infection. The Infected progress through these stages as the Cordyceps brain infection takes over more of the body. The third stage is the Clicker form – which provides strength far superior to the average man or woman. By this point, an infected person’s physical appearance is no longer that of a human. They are severely disfigured and scarred with fungus protruding from the head. They can’t see as a result of this, and so rely on echolocation to move around, communicate, and hunt. Players will know when Clickers are nearby due to the eery clicking sounds they make to assist echolocation. This is where the ‘Clicker’ name comes from.
While the fungal growths they suffer from are gruesome, they provide a form of protection. It works as a sort-of armour when the head is being targeted, therefore protecting the brain from damage – at least until the fungus is removed. Infected progress to the Clicker stage after a prolonged period of infection – approximately 12 months. This allows the fungus time to develop and begin covering the body, starting with the face.
Clickers are notably violent and highly aggressive – more so than less-advanced Infected. They respond immediately to any disturbance, particularly if they are aware of the player’s presence in the area. Clickers enter a furious rage and attack any threat directly. They’ll use their hands and swing wildly – if the player is grabbed by a Clicker, they face certain death. So players must react quickly to survive – although only high-powered weapons and ammunition will be enough to stop a Clicker. Simply running away or sneaking past them is recommended. As is the use of fire and shivs in desperate situations.
Clicker Last of Us
Clickers first appeared in 2013’s The Last of Us. They show up early on in the game – in chapter three ‘The Outskirts’ to be precise. They reappear multiple times throughout the story, and pose a significant threat to Joel and Ellie for the duration of their adventure together. Clickers also appear in 2014’s single-player DLC called The Last of Us: Left Behind. Left Behind is a prequel set before the events of The Last of Us. The player controls Ellie throughout the game.
Last of Us 2 Clickers
Clickers return in The Last of Us Part II. They are just as dangerous as they are in the first game, and should be treated with equal caution and preparedness. Players will encounter them numerous times, but will also have to contend with new threats including grotesque Shamblers which release clouds of Cordyceps spores and are perhaps even more dangerous.
What are your best tactics for dealing with Clickers in The Last of Us? Let us know in the comment section below and don’t forget to check out our other gaming articles…
