The Last of Us Part II: Types of Infected and How to Defeat Them

Types of Infected

Runner

Run and Attack When Spotting a Survivor

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.

Have Eyesight

Runners have the same eyesight as humans, so approaching them from behind is more effective, preventing them from noticing you right away.

Stalker

Move On All Fours

A distinctive feature of Stalkers is that they move on all fours, coupled with mushroom-like growths on their heads. They attack in a manner similar to Runners.

Prefer Dark Areas

Stalkers often appear at night or in dark places like dimly lit rooms. They can also hide in the shadows or at the corners of corridors while waiting for survivors.

Clicker

Enhanced Hearing

Clickers have completely lost their vision and rely solely on their sense of hearing. These enemies can detect the slightest noise made by humans, using clicking sounds to sense their surroundings through soundwaves.

Perform Instant Kill Attacks

You can use a Shiv when caught by a Clicker, but it's crucial to maintain a safe distance when engaging them. These enemies possess higher defense compared to Runners; they may not flinch when attacked by a handgun.

Bloater

Covered in Armor-like Fungus

Bloaters have high defense due to their fungus covering, which acts like armor. Defeating them can be challenging without using fire or high-powered weapons.

Spreads Spores

The Bloater attacks by charging and spreading spores at the target. Being within the range of these spores gradually decreases health.

Shambler

Releases Gas

The Shambler attacks by releasing acidic gas, and being within the range of this gas causes damage. They explode after being defeated and continue releasing gas, so it's important to keep a safe distance during combat with this infected.

Moderate Defense

Compared to Runners or Clickers, Shamblers have moderate defense due to their thick boils and large bodies. Use high-powered weapons such as bombs, Molotov cocktails, or a Pump Shotgun to defeat them before they get too close.

How to Defeat Each Infected

How to Defeat Runners

Perform Stealth Kills

Runners rarely move around and often remain crouched in one place. They are not sensitive to sound, so deal with them one by one using stealth kills. Be aware of the positions of nearby enemies to avoid being detected.

Maintain Distance

Avoid being noticed and maintain distance, so they won't attack all at once. Runners have low defense and can be easily killed with a headshot using a small weapon or with melee attacks.

How to Defeat Stalkers

Use a Pump Shotgun or Throw Objects

Stalkers tend to stay on the move more than Runners. Create distractions to lure them out before launching an attack with a wide-ranging weapon, such as explosives or the Pump Shotgun.

Defeat Isolated Stalkers with Melee Attacks

Defeat a lone Stalker with melee attacks. They have higher defense compared to Runners, so pay attention to their movement and use evasive abilities whenever possible.

How to Defeat Clickers

Stealth Kill If You Have a Knife

Slowly approach Clickers and use a knife to eliminate them. You may also utilize the Crossbow in Abby's section, as Shivs are consumable items for her.

Stop When You Hear Clicking Sounds

There are instances where Clickers stop and make clicking sounds to sense their surroundings. You shouldn't move during this period and should wait for them to start walking again.

Maintain Distance

They can perform instant kill attacks if you get too close. Use a gun or Pump Shotgun to defeat them from a distance before they can grab you.

Create Sounds to Lure Them

Use their high sensitivity to sound to your advantage and throw objects to make distractions. By luring Clickers away, you can escape to the next area without engaging in combat.

How to Defeat a Bloater

Evade the Charge Attack with L1

Use the L1 button to evade the Bloater's charge attack. When you successfully avoid their attack, they will collide with a wall and become vulnerable for a short period. Use this chance to inflict damage.

Attack with Fire

Bloaters also attack with spores; if you stay within the spore's range, you will lose health. One of their weaknesses is fire, so you can use Molotov cocktails to efficiently deal damage.

Run Away when the Bloater Tears Spores

The Bloater is also capable of long-range attacks by throwing spores. When you see the Bloater tearing spores from its body, quickly run away from the area.

How to Defeat Shambler

Fight from a Distance

Engage in combat while maintaining distance to avoid the Shambler's acidic gas. Remain cautious after defeating it because it explodes and continues releasing gas for a short period.

Use High-powered Weapons

Since the Shambler's body is covered in thick pustules, use high-powered weapons like bombs, Molotov cocktails, and the Pump Shotgun to quickly deal damage.

Tips for Combat and Stealth Gameplay

Overview of Infected

Enemies in The Last of Us 2

The Infected are individuals who have fallen victim to the Cordyceps fungal infection and are a significant threat to survivors due to their hostility. Their form, appearance, and behavior change depending on the degree of fungal infestation.