In 2013, the video game The Last of Us captured attention due to its unique take on pandemics, featuring a fictional fungal pathogen inspired by real-world Ophiocordyceps unilateralis. Naughty Dog, the game's developer, consulted scientists like David Hughes to enhance its credibility. The game's themes have gained renewed relevance post-COVID-19, leading to discussions about the nature of zoonotic infections. Hughes notes that the game's impact has grown, especially with the release of a sequel and a successful HBO adaptation, broadening its audience's understanding of pandemics.
"The writers at Naughty Dog drew inspiration from real fungi, such as the zombie-ant fungus, to create a believable pandemic narrative in The Last of Us."
"I've shifted to studying climate change and food security, yet my experience consulting on The Last of Us remains a highlight; the concept of a pandemic resonated more deeply post-COVID."
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