In 2013, the gaming world was abuzz with excitement over the impending release of a highly anticipated zombie-apocalypse video game called “The Last of Us.” This game offered players a chance to delve into a post-pandemic world where a deadly fungus known as Cordyceps infects and takes over the brains of humans, leading to a devastating global catastrophe.
Unlike traditional apocalyptic scenarios involving viruses or bacteria, the inspiration for the game’s pathogen came from real-life fungi such as Ophiocordyceps unilateralis, also known as the zombie-ant fungus. This fungus infects insects and manipulates their behavior by releasing chemicals into their brains. To add authenticity to the game’s storyline, the developers at Naughty Dog, a studio based in Santa Monica, California, consulted with scientists like David Hughes, a behavioral ecologist specializing in zombie-ant fungi at Pennsylvania State University.
Hughes and other experts were brought on board to provide insight into the science behind fungal infections and pandemics, helping to shape the narrative of the game. The attention to detail and the incorporation of real scientific concepts into the gameplay set “The Last of Us” apart from other apocalyptic-themed games.
The success of the original game led to the development of a sequel in 2020 and a critically acclaimed television show, which is set to conclude its second season on HBO. Hughes recently shared his experiences consulting on the game and discussed how the COVID-19 pandemic has influenced our perception of zombie-apocalypse media.
Reflecting on his involvement with “The Last of Us,” Hughes praised the game’s writers for their dedication to incorporating scientific principles into the storyline. He noted that the team delved into the world of fungi and slime molds, even going as far as ordering slime molds to study their behavior. The level of detail and accuracy in portraying the science of fungal infections impressed Hughes and added a layer of authenticity to the game.
When asked about the realism of a Cordyceps pandemic, Hughes explained that while fungi can indeed infect humans through zoonotic transmission, the idea of a fungus causing drastic behavioral changes in humans is far-fetched. He commended the writers for taking creative liberties while still grounding the storyline in scientific concepts.
As for the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on our fascination with zombie-apocalypse media, Hughes pointed out that living through a real-life pandemic has shifted our perspective. He suggested that the collective trauma of the past year may have dampened our appetite for fictional depictions of global disasters. The evolution of zombie lore over the years, from nuclear fears to pandemics, reflects society’s changing anxieties and priorities.
In conclusion, “The Last of Us” remains a groundbreaking game that expertly weaves scientific concepts into its narrative. While the COVID-19 pandemic may have altered our relationship with apocalyptic media, the game’s legacy as a thought-provoking exploration of human nature and survival endures.
This article is based on an interview with David Hughes and was originally published on May 23, 2025.
