Stalkers

Stalkers are terrifyingly fast and deadly in The Last of Us Part II. Learn how to spot, fight, and survive these relentless infected with our expert guide.

Alright, let's talk about Stalkers in The Last of Us Part II. These guys are a real step up from the Runners and Clickers you've probably encountered so far. They're fast, they're sneaky, and they can really mess you up if you're not prepared. Think of them as a nasty blend of the two – they've got the speed and agility of Runners but the cunning and stealth of something far more dangerous.

The biggest thing to remember with Stalkers is that they don't just rush you head-on. They'll use the environment to their advantage, popping out from behind cover, flanking you, and generally trying to get the drop on you. They're also pretty good at hiding and then lunging when you least expect it. This means you can't just stand your ground and shoot; you've got to be constantly aware of your surroundings and ready to move.

Combat Tips for Stalkers:

• Listen closely: Just like with Clickers, their sounds are your best warning. They make these guttural clicks and hisses, and if you hear them, be ready to fight or flee.
• Use your Listen Mode sparingly: While it's tempting to spam Listen Mode, Stalkers can sometimes be harder to pinpoint than other infected, and you don't want to drain your Focus too quickly. Use it strategically when you think they might be nearby.
• Keep moving: Standing still is a death sentence. Always be strafing, dodging, and repositioning yourself. Try to funnel them into choke points where you can take them on one or two at a time.
• Guns are good, but melee is better (sometimes): If you can get a clean shot with a shotgun or rifle, great. But often, they're too fast. If you've got a pipe or your Shiv, a well-timed dodge followed by a melee attack can be super effective. Just be ready to mash that dodge button!
• Traps are your friend: Trip mines and Molotovs can be lifesavers. Laying down some traps before an engagement can thin their numbers or at least slow them down, giving you breathing room.
• Don't underestimate them: Even one Stalker can be a serious threat. If you see a group, prioritize taking them out quickly before they can surround you.

Honestly, the best way to get a feel for them is to fight them. You'll learn their attack patterns and how to counter them through trial and error. Don't get discouraged if you get taken down a few times – that's part of the learning process in this game. Just remember to stay calm, stay aware, and keep that trigger finger ready!