Why are the Coins in Zelda Called “rupees”?

For gamers, “The Legend of Zelda” series is a timeless adventure filled with mysterious lands, heroic quests, and an iconic currency known as “rupees.” These sparkling gems play a crucial role in Link’s journey through the various realms of Hyrule. But have you ever wondered why the coins in Zelda are called “rupees”? In this blog post, we’ll delve into the fascinating history and origins of this unique currency in one of the most beloved video game franchises of all time.

Why are the Coins in Zelda Called “rupees”?

The coins in Zelda are called “rupees” because the term “rupee” has historical roots as a currency in various cultures, particularly the Indian subcontinent. Incorporating the term added depth and a sense of currency to the game, enhancing the Zelda universe’s lore and world-building.

Creating a table summarizing why the coins in Zelda are called “rupees”:

Reason	Explanation
Historical Origins	The term “rupee” has historical roots as a currency in cultures such as India, introduced by Arab traders and used during colonial eras.
Depth and Authenticity	Naming the in-game currency “rupees” added depth and authenticity to the Zelda universe, drawing from real-world historical significance.
Symbolism and Gameplay	Rupees in Zelda symbolize progression, rewards, exploration, and an in-game economy, enhancing the gameplay experience and narrative immersion.
Evolution Through the Series	Over the years, the Zelda series introduced new colors and values for rupees, allowing for greater complexity and depth in the in-game currency system.
World-Building and Lore	Rupees contribute to world-building and lore within the Zelda universe, becoming an integral part of the series’ mythology.

The Magical World of Zelda:

“The Legend of Zelda,” created by Shigeru Miyamoto and released by Nintendo in 1986, quickly became a landmark series in the gaming world. The games follow the adventures of Link, a courageous hero, as he embarks on quests to rescue Princess Zelda, defeat the evil Ganon, and protect the land of Hyrule.

One of the most distinctive features of the Zelda universe is its in-game currency: rupees. These mystical gems come in various colors and denominations, and they are used for purchasing items, upgrades, and other essential goods in the game. But where did the name “rupee” come from, and why did the creators choose it?

The Origins of “Rupee”:

To understand the origins of the term “rupee” in “The Legend of Zelda,” we must trace it back to real-world history. The word “rupee” has a long and fascinating history as a currency in various cultures around the world.

1. Indian Rupee: The term “rupee” is believed to have originated from the Sanskrit word “rupya,” which means “a silver coin.” The Indian rupee has a rich history dating back to ancient times and was widely used in trade and commerce.
2. Arab Influence: During medieval times, the Arab traders introduced the concept of the rupee to the Indian subcontinent. They used the term “rupee” to refer to a silver coin of a specific weight.
3. Colonial Era: The rupee also played a significant role during the colonial era when European powers established trading posts in India. The British East India Company, in particular, used the rupee as a standard currency.
4. Global Usage: The Indian rupee’s influence extended beyond India’s borders, and it was used in trade with neighboring regions and countries.

Incorporating Rupees into “The Legend of Zelda”:

When Shigeru Miyamoto and his team were creating the original “Legend of Zelda” game, they drew inspiration from various sources, including mythology, fantasy novels, and real-world history. The decision to name the in-game currency “rupees” was likely influenced by the historical significance and widespread use of the term.

Incorporating the concept of rupees into the game added depth to the Zelda universe. These colorful gems became more than just a currency; they became a part of the game’s lore, mythology, and world-building. Players would encounter rupees in treasure chests, hidden caves, and as rewards for completing quests, making them an integral part of the gameplay experience.

The Symbolism of Rupees:

In “The Legend of Zelda,” rupees are not just a means of exchange; they also hold symbolic value within the game’s narrative. Different colors of rupees have different values, with green being the most common and valuable. The symbolism of rupees in Zelda includes:

1. Progression: Rupees are often required to advance in the game by purchasing items, unlocking areas, or gaining access to critical information.
2. Rewards: Rupees serve as rewards for completing tasks and challenges, reinforcing the player’s sense of accomplishment.
3. Exploration: The search for rupees encourages exploration and discovery within the game world, motivating players to delve into every nook and cranny of Hyrule.
4. Economy: Rupees simulate an economy within the game, where players must manage their resources wisely to succeed.

Evolving Rupees Through the Games:

As “The Legend of Zelda” series has evolved over the years, so too have rupees. The games have introduced new colors, shapes, and values for rupees, allowing for greater complexity in the in-game economy. Each game in the series builds upon the legacy of rupees while introducing unique twists and mechanics related to currency.

FAQs

Why is it called Rupees? It is called “Rupees” in Zelda because the term “rupee” has historical roots as a currency in various cultures, adding depth and authenticity to the game world.

What is a rupee in Zelda? In Zelda, a rupee is the in-game currency used for purchasing items, upgrading equipment, and progressing through the game.

Why does Breath of the Wild use Rupees? Breath of the Wild uses Rupees as the in-game currency to maintain continuity with the Zelda series and provide a familiar currency system for players.

How much is a Zelda rupee worth? The specific value of a Zelda rupee varies depending on its color, with green rupees being the most common and valuable at one unit.

What is the most expensive rupee in Zelda? The most valuable rupee in Zelda games is typically the silver or orange rupee, which is worth 100 units.

What is the difference between rupee and Rupees? “Rupee” refers to a single unit of currency, while “Rupees” is the plural form, denoting multiple units of the currency.

How do you pronounce rupee in Zelda? In Zelda, “rupee” is typically pronounced as “roo-pee.”

What are Zelda Rupees made of? The material composition of Zelda Rupees is not explicitly mentioned in the games, but they are often depicted as colorful, gem-like crystals.

Should I give the fairy 100 Rupees in Zelda? In some Zelda games, offering 100 Rupees to a fairy or fairy fountain may provide beneficial effects, such as increased health or enhanced abilities, making it a worthwhile investment.

How old is Link in Zelda? Link’s age varies in different Zelda games and timelines, but he is often portrayed as a young hero in his late teens or early twenties.

What happens when you 100% Breath of the Wild? When you 100% complete Breath of the Wild, you will have achieved all quests, collected all Korok seeds, uncovered all locations, and obtained all achievements, providing a sense of accomplishment and potentially unlocking additional in-game content.

What are the negative rupees in Zelda? Negative rupees are a rare occurrence in some Zelda games, often incurred as penalties for certain actions or as a result of specific gameplay mechanics. They can decrease your rupee count temporarily.

Conclusion:

“The Legend of Zelda” series has captivated players for decades, not only with its epic adventures and memorable characters but also with its clever use of in-game currency known as rupees. The term “rupee” itself draws from a rich historical context, bringing depth and authenticity to the fictional world of Hyrule. As fans continue to explore the enchanted landscapes of Zelda, they can appreciate the legacy of rupees—a symbol of value, progress, and the enduring magic of the series.