Codex
The six gear slots, including the Viral Genome.
The protein shell that encloses a virus's genome, built from repeating subunits called capsomeres. Most are icosahedral (20 triangular faces) or helical.
In the game
Head slot. Equip a Capsid gene for stat bonuses (and, at higher rarity, ability bonuses and unique effects).
Fun fact: Capsids self-assemble: the proteins snap together on their own, like a puzzle that builds itself.
Appears inDrops & PickupsSkill TreePetri LabRun ModifiersGear SlotsInfect Game ModePandemic Gear SetsThe Codex
An outer lipid membrane some viruses steal from the host cell as they bud out of it, studded with the virus's own glycoproteins.
In the game
Chest slot. Envelope genes add stats such as HP and armor.
Fun fact: Enveloped viruses like flu and HIV are fragile outside the body: soap dissolves their envelope.
Appears inRun ModifiersModifier CombosGear SlotsPandemic Gear SetsEndless Boons & Curses
A protein layer lining the inside of the envelope (like influenza's M1) that gives the virion its shape and organizes assembly.
In the game
Legs slot. Matrix genes add stat bonuses and can belong to gear sets.
Fun fact: Influenza's M1 is one of the most abundant proteins in the virion.
Appears inGear SlotsPandemic Gear Sets
Long, jointed protein fibers on bacteriophages that recognize and grip a host cell's surface before the phage injects its DNA.
In the game
Boots slot, for movement. Tail Fiber genes add stat bonuses such as move speed.
Fun fact: Viruses that infect humans don't have tail fibers; in the game they're the virus's legs and boots.
Appears inGear SlotsPandemic Gear Sets
Surface glycoproteins such as flu's hemagglutinin, HIV's gp120 and the coronavirus spike (S) protein that bind a cell's receptors and drive fusion.
In the game
Weapon slot. Spike genes add stat bonuses such as damage and fire rate.
Fun fact: Spike proteins are the main target of most antiviral vaccines.
Appears inPetri LabMilestone ChallengesGear SlotsPandemic Gear Sets
