In The Last of Us 2 , the infected represent a constant threat, either during silent exploration or brutal ambushes. More than generic enemies, these creatures require strategy, observation and adaptation . Each type has different behaviors, specific vulnerabilities and different levels of aggressiveness, which requires the player to vary his tactics.
The game's combat system favors stealing approaches, but also allows direct confrontations - when inevitable. To survive, it is essential to understand the characteristics of each infected. Here are the main types and how to deal with each of them effectively.
Runners: The most common and unpredictable
Runners are the first stages of infection in The Last of Us. They are humans newly contaminated by the Cordyceps fungus, still maintaining some form of consciousness. They move erratically, scream loudly and depart from the player at total speed as soon as they perceive their presence.
Despite agility, they have a low level of perception and can be easily slaughtered in stealth approaches. Ideally, use distractions with bottles or bricks to isolate them from the group and eliminate them silently with knife or strangulation.
In direct clashes, few shots are enough to neutralize them, but in large groups they become dangerous. Avoiding agglomerations is essential not to be surrounded.
Estalators: The silent and deadly threat
With their face totally deformed by the fungus, the cracks are blind, but have an ecoLocalization system similar to that of bats. This makes them extremely sensitive to sounds. They move slowly, but kill instantly when reaching the player if they are not prevented.
Facing stalators requires absolute stealth approach . Squat and walk slowly is essential to avoid detection. The player can use listening mode to track his position and avoid collision routes.
Knives are the best option for silent eliminations. In direct clashes, they are more resistant than runners and may require head shots or use of heavy weapons such as rifle or molotov cocktails.
Persecresses: The most unpredictable in the game
Little mentioned in the first title, persecutors appear more often in The Last of Us Part II. They are infected in intermediate stage, with still human but already deformed physical traits. They combine the speed of the corridors with the stealing behavior of the crops.
The biggest challenge is that they hide , wait for the right time and attack behind. They are silent, fast and capable of causing considerable damage before the player realizes his presence.
Constant use of listening mode and cautious movement are the best defenses against this type of enemy. Lanterns help to expose your position. When located, they can be faced with stealthy attacks or, in the latter, with rapid firearms such as pistol or submachine gun.
Baiacus: brutal and almost unshakable
Called Bloaters in the original, baiacus are infected at an advanced stage. Covered by thick fungus plaques, have a huge strength and are extremely resistant to shots and melee attacks. They throw explosive spores that cause area damage, which requires constant movement during combat.
The ideal is to use high impact firearms such as rifles, homemade pumps or flames. Molotov cocktail flames cause continuous damage and eliminate enemies efficiently.
Bahiacus combats usually occur in more open areas, allowing you to use the scenario to your advantage. Exploring the environment and preparing traps in advance can make a difference. Facing them in front, without preparation, is usually fatal.
King of Rats: The most lethal chief of the game
The King of Rats (or Rat King, as it became known in the English version) is an exclusive enemy of a key moment in history. It represents the grotesque fusion of multiple infected bodies, creating a gigantic creature, fast and with high destruction power.
This is the biggest challenge in direct combat in the game. His attacks cause area damage and there are times when he divides, generating another equally dangerous enemy.
The secret to overcoming it lies in the mobility and intelligent use of scenario resources. Nail, dolotovs and heavy weapons pumps are indispensable. In addition, the player needs to maintain distance, never stop moving and prioritize constant damage , even under pressure.
General tips for facing infected
In addition to the specific strategies for each type, some tips are valid in any situation:
- Manage your features carefully. AMINATION, MEDICAL KITS AND PUMPS ARE LIMITED, AND THE GAME VALUES PREPARATION.
- Use the environment to your advantage. Hiding hiding places, alternative routes and distraction objects are important allies.
- Adapt to the style of play. Sometimes the best way is to avoid combat completely.
- Listen to the sounds. Each type of infected emits distinct noises. Learning to recognize them can save your life.
- Avoid direct confrontation when possible. The game rewards planning and discretion.
Why knowing those infected is essential to advance in The Last of Us
Mastering the differences between the types of infected in The Last of Us 2 is not just a matter of curiosity - it is a decisive factor to advance safely and efficiently. The game requires the player to make quick decisions in hostile environments, and each type of enemy completely alters the combat dynamics.
Prior knowledge allows you to choose weapons better, plan routes, save resources and avoid traps. While the corridors require agility, stallers charge silence. However, the persecutors test constant attention, and the Baiacus ask for firepower. On the other hand, in the case of the King of Rats, the key is in mobility and space control.
Exploring scenarios carefully and observing the behavior of enemies is a way to prepare for the most complex challenges the game offers. Unpredictable artificial intelligence and the design of the meetings make no combat equal to the other. Thus, having a plan for each type of threat helps to maintain the pace and reduces the risk of death in decisive situations.
The Last of Us Part II does not reward those who act on impulse. On the contrary: it awards those who study the environment, recognize patterns and adapt. Knowing your enemies is, in the end, the first step to overcome them.
