The use of zombie guts as camouflage has been a recurring survival tactic in both the live-action and comic book versions of The Walking Dead. However, despite its prevalence, the logic behind this strategy has often been called into question. In a recent release of The Walking Dead Deluxe #83, the series itself finally acknowledges the flaw in this survival tactic through a humorous gag comic.
In the original issue #83, readers witness the survivors devising a plan to escape a building surrounded by walkers. To evade detection, Rick proposes creating “Walker ponchos” for everyone to wear, made from the skin and guts of the undead. While the plan ultimately fails, everyone wearing the makeshift ponchos remains unharmed. However, the gag comic titled “Small Bites” included in The Walking Dead Deluxe #83 humorously highlights the absurdity of this tactic.
The two-page comic, created by Derek Hunter, points out the inherent risk of infection associated with wearing zombie guts as camouflage. It humorously illustrates that if any of the survivors were to accidentally ingest or come into contact with the infected remains, they would become susceptible to the same fate as if they were bitten by a walker. Even the smallest exposure to zombie guts could lead to instant infection and transformation into the undead.
FAQ
Is the use of zombie guts as camouflage a common tactic in The Walking Dead?
Yes, both the live-action series and the comic books feature characters using zombie guts as camouflage to blend in with the undead and avoid detection.
Why is this tactic considered flawed?
The humorous gag comic “Small Bites” in The Walking Dead Deluxe #83 highlights the potential risks of infection associated with wearing zombie guts as camouflage. It points out that even the smallest exposure to infected remains could lead to instant infection and transformation into a walker.
Does The Walking Dead address this flaw in its narrative?
While the series has seamlessly incorporated the use of zombie guts as camouflage, the inclusion of the gag comic adds a layer of self-awareness to the narrative. It acknowledges the illogical nature of the tactic in a humorous manner.
Has any other zombie series addressed similar concerns?
Yes, the film 28 Days Later (2002) famously depicts a character becoming infected with the zombie virus after coming into contact with infected blood. This serves as a reminder of the inherent danger posed by the remains of the undead in the zombie genre as a whole.