The Licker was a genetically mutated Zombie created by a mutation caused by a certain variant of the t-virus. It evolved into a faster and deadlier hunter with a greater muscular structure and athletic abilities. It is easily recognized by its extremely long tongue. 1 2 3 4
History
When a human is infected with the t-virus, metabolic activation takes place leading to a constant state of hunger. Eventually, the food source of the Zombie will run out and it will eventually die from starvation. However, a unique reaction in some Zombies leads to the complete reformation of the host's cells, causing a mutation. This mutation is not directly linked to the V-ACT process caused by another variant of the t-virus, but the two share a similarity in that they are caused when the host loses consciousness and the virus re-activates. 5 They were first documented in Raccoon City. Umbrella initially managed to capture a specimen, and due to the similarities of the Licker's explosive power and shape of its front feet to those of the Tyrant (T-002 Type), it led them to initially believe it was a "Wild Tyrant". 6
Because it possessed high mobility, the researchers in the Raccoon City Underground Laboratory got an idea of developing a new B.O.W. based on the Licker. After extensive testing, they eventually managed to produce the B.O.W. equivalent of the Licker; the "Evolved Licker". 7 During the Raccoon City incident, an irregular mutant related of the Licker was also recorded in the Apple Inn in Raccoon City, known as the "Suspended". In November 1998, Lickers and Evolved Lickers were also documented following the t-virus leak on Sheena Island. Unlike Raccoon City, most of the Lickers on Sheena Island were escaped specimens.
Lickers became popular on the B.O.W. market, and to this end Umbrella commenced mass production between 1998 and 2003, during the company's Supreme Court trial. They were supplied to conflict regions and anyone willing to buy Umbrella's bio-weapons. These specimens (mainly comprised of small Lickers which had not yet matured) were stored in the Caucasus Laboratory.
The Licker's popularity on the B.O.W. market remained for years following Umbrella's destruction. To take advantage of this, Tricell Incorporated took up research and development on the Licker, resulting in the new Licker β. 8
Attributes
The Licker loses its eyesight due to the expansion of the brain, leading to the loss of much of the skull and particularly the upper section of the face, leading to the complete degeneration of the eye cavities. In exchange, they develop an acute sense of hearing to accommodate this loss. The skin rots and peels away completely, leaving the Licker's deformed muscle tissue completely visible, where it is reformed. This enhanced muscle structure gives them greater abilities in comparison to average Zombies, allowing them to jump great heights and distances and move more quickly with heightened agility and movement.
The bone structure of the Licker is also transformed, allowing them to walk on all fours and enabling them to climb across walls and ceilings easily with their claws. Upon spotting prey, the Licker stands up on its rear legs and enters its attack position before leaping. Their teeth are probably their least-used method of attack. The Licker hunts through its sense of sound, utilizing its incredible agility to quickly reach them before using either leaping and attacking with its claws or lashing out with its extremely large lance-like tongue to kill them. Its tongue is capable of piercing a human torso or tactical vest with ease. Its lack of eyesight is also its greatest weakness, as weapons that make little sound (such as a bowgun) or are silenced completely can easily dispatch them.
The Licker goes through two primary stages of maturation. In its initial form, they are smaller, slimmer and more nimble with small claws. After a period of time however, they finally reach their mature form in which their muscle mass expands and their claws and mouth enlarge.
Etymology
The Licker (one who licks) was named by R.P.D. officers on September 27, 1998, after the sudden appearance of the creature in the police department and its quick decimation of a number of officers. The name comes from its trademark tongue, which is its primary method of attack next to its large claws. 9
Footnotes
- 1. Licker Notes (UC)
- 2. Licker Notes (DC)
- 3. biohazard archives (Page 186)
- 4. BIOHAZARD THE DARKSIDE CHRONICLES Official Guidebook (Page 041)
- 5. RESEARCH ON BIOHAZARD 2 -final edition- (Page 015-017)
- 6. BIOHAZARD 3 LAST ESCAPE Official Guidebook - Fulfillment Of Her Escape (Page 149)
- 7. INSIDE OF BIOHAZARD THE DARKSIDE CHRONICLES (Page 060)
- 8. Tricell Researcher Miguel's Journal - No. 1
- 9. Operation Report 1