The Last of Us Part II: Glossary

Glossary of Terms

World Terminology

Pandemic

Twenty-five years ago, there was an outbreak of the Cordyceps parasitic infection, causing the population to drastically decrease. Infected individuals are still prevailing in the desolate cities.

Parasitic Infection

A pathogen that infests the human brain. Transmission occurs through the inhalation of spores or exposure to bodily fluids from an infected individual.

Within 1-2 days of infection, the fungus takes control of the body. Even after twenty-five years, there's still no vaccine or cure, except for Ellie being immune to it.

Spores

Humans use masks to avoid inhaling spores, which are spread into the environment by the infected, such as Clickers or Bloaters, serving as breeding grounds.

Infected Terminology

Infected

The Infected are people who have fallen victim to the parasitic fungus and pose a significant threat to survivors. Their form, appearance, and behavior change depending on the degree of fungal infestation.

Runner

Runners are in the early stages of infection, and there's not much difference from their original appearance. They lack self-awareness and immediately attack after seeing a human. These enemies are typically found in groups, so when a Runner notices a survivor, others will swiftly follow in pursuit.

Stalker

In the middle stage of infection, Stalkers move on all fours and attack similarly to Runners. They have the habit of hiding in the shadows and ambushing survivors.

Clicker

Clickers are in the late stage of infection and their heads are severely deformed. They have lost their vision and rely on echolocation. These enemies have higher durability compared to Runners and Stalkers.

Bloater

Bloaters are highly durable due to their fungus covering, which acts like armor. They can throw clusters of spores as their mid-range attacks. One of their weaknesses is fire, so using a Molotov cocktail or Flamethrower against them is effective.

Shambler

A new type of infected in the game is covered in thick pustules and releases acidic gas. Shamblers also explode upon death, which continues to spread the gas around.

Rat King

The Rat King is a giant infected boss in the game. It has a grotesque appearance, formed by the fusion of multiple infected individuals. It will split into Stalker parts when you damage it.

The game doesn't explicitly mention the name "Rat King" but you can verify it by checking the Model Gallery in the title menu.

Location and Faction Terminology

Jackson City

A town located in Wyoming. The Jackson community was founded by Maria, Tommy's wife, and her father. In the game, Tommy currently serves as the leader. With the help of the nearby hydroelectric power plant and other resources, the survivors residing in this city enjoy peaceful and calm lives.

Seattle

The setting for the story. It is abundant with forests and wildlife, and the rain allows for the growth of vegetation. The conflict between the WLF and Seraphites arises from competition for the resources and territories in the area.

Santa Barbara

A city located in Southern California, it is said that the Fireflies reside here. In reality, however, a faction called the Rattlers dominates the area.

WLF / Washington Liberation Front

The Washington Liberation Front is a militia group forged from resistance against the Seattle military. They are armed with stolen military weapons and hold control over most of the city.

Seraphites

The Seraphites are a religious faction in conflict with the WLF. They are also known as Scars due to the ritualistic scars etched onto their faces. They primarily use bows and arrows in combat and communicate with each other through whistling.

Rattlers

The Rattlers are a ruthless faction in Santa Barbara known for their brutal torture and executions of survivors and infected. They are often equipped with firearms, helmets, and bulletproof vests.

Fireflies

A resistance organization formed by Marlene. They attempted to create a vaccine in exchange for Ellie's life in the previous game. Marlene died, and the Fireflies disbanded due to conflicts with the military and Joel. Some former members are now part of the WLF.

List of Characters