Why is the Zelda Currency Called a Rupee? Unraveling the Gemstone’s History
Fast answer first. Then use the tabs or video for more detail.
- Watch the video explanation below for a faster overview.
- Game mechanics may change with updates or patches.
- Use this block to get the short answer without scrolling the whole page.
- Read the FAQ section if the article has one.
- Use the table of contents to jump straight to the detailed section you need.
- Watch the video first, then skim the article for specifics.
The iconic currency of the Legend of Zelda series, the Rupee, is more than just a shiny collectible; it’s a name steeped in history and imbued with a touch of linguistic charm. At its core, the name “Rupee” was chosen for its cute sound and its auditory resemblance to the word “Rubies,” which were actually the original designation in the first English manual for The Legend of Zelda. However, this was later changed to Rupees, likely because the in-game currency was not exclusively red. This simple name change, however, belies a much deeper and more fascinating backstory. The term itself is rooted in the Sanskrit word “rupya,” meaning silver. This is because, historically, the rupee is a monetary unit used in various countries, including Mauritius, Nepal, and Seychelles.
The most significant historical context for the name is its association with the Mughal dynasty of central and northern India in the late 16th century. These rulers established the silver rupee as a standard form of currency, divided into 16 annas. Therefore, the name “Rupee” is a nod to this historic monetary standard.
The Evolution of the Zelda Rupee
The evolution of the Rupee in Zelda games reflects a fascinating combination of practical design and gameplay mechanics. While the original English manuals mistakenly called them rubies, they soon changed to Rupees, a name with an interesting history. The look of Rupees has also evolved, though consistent colors remain important.
Colors and Values
- Green Rupees are the most common, usually worth 1 unit.
- Blue Rupees are typically worth 5 units.
- Red Rupees are often worth 20 units.
- Silver and Gold Rupees can be worth significantly more, such as 100 or 200 units, respectively.
From Gemstones to Currency
The fact that Rupees are not necessarily made of rubies but are more likely polished gemstones emphasizes their collectable nature within the game. They are found everywhere, from cutting grass to defeating enemies, making them both a form of wealth and a tangible reward. This ties directly into the game’s core mechanics, making their accumulation a crucial part of the player’s journey.
The Real-World Connection
The use of the name “Rupee” is not merely a coincidence but a conscious decision by the game developers to connect the fictional world of Hyrule to real-world currency traditions. This not only provides a layer of depth to the game but also offers players a sense of familiarity and historical grounding, even within a fantastical context. The fact that there is even a real-world currency known as the Rupee adds to the uniqueness and charm of the Zelda universe.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
To further deepen your understanding of the Zelda Rupee, let’s delve into some frequently asked questions:
1. How Much is a Zelda Rupee Worth in Real Money?
It’s difficult to give an exact equivalent, but Forbes estimates that one Zelda Rupee is worth approximately $0.62 USD, using a comparison of the in-game cost of goods with federal data on the prices of similar items like eggs, tomatoes, butter, milk, bananas, and rice. However, this is not a fixed exchange rate and is more of a fun estimate than a definite conversion.
2. How Much is a Gold Rupee Worth?
A Gold Rupee is generally worth significantly more than other Rupees. In some games, they can be valued at 200 Rupees each. Gold Rupees are often found in special locations or awarded for completing specific tasks. In Twilight Princess, one single gold rupee has been given after completing a hard quest, making it highly valuable.
3. What is the Rupee Limit in Tears of the Kingdom?
In The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom, the maximum amount of Rupees you can hold is 999,999. Players have found a method called “Hold Smuggling” that allows them to repeatedly sell the same set of items, effectively exploiting the game’s mechanics to amass this maximum.
4. How Can I Get 10,000 Rupees in Breath of the Wild?
One of the most efficient methods for acquiring rupees is by hunting in the South Tabantha Snowfield near the Snowfield Stable. The animals here drop high-quality meats that can be crafted into Meat Skewers, which sell for significant sums, allowing you to obtain around 10,000 Rupees per hour.
5. What is the Most Valuable Rupee in the Zelda Series?
The Silver Rupee in Twilight Princess is widely considered the most valuable, being worth 200 Rupees. Further, an infinite source of silver rupees can be found after completing the Poe Soul quest.
6. What are Rupees Made Of in Zelda?
While some Rupees are clearly made of silver and gold, most of them are most likely made of polished gemstones of various colors, adding to the game’s fantasy aesthetic and making them look more unique and valuable.
7. What Do Rupees Look Like in the Zelda Series?
Rupees generally come in a variety of colors, including Green, Blue, and Red, although the values may differ in every game. The shapes and designs may vary from game to game, but the core concept of colored gems remains consistent.
8. How Much Did the First Zelda Game Sell For?
An original, early production NES cartridge of the first Legend of Zelda game was sold for an astonishing $870,000, making it the most expensive video game ever sold. This shows not only the historical importance of the game, but also how highly desired original versions of this popular franchise are.
9. What is the Most Expensive Item to Sell in Tears of the Kingdom?
Diamonds are among the most valuable items to sell in Tears of the Kingdom, fetching a price of 500 Rupees. They can also be used as weapon fusion materials, adding further to their versatility and desirability.
10. How Many Years are Between Breath of the Wild and Tears of the Kingdom?
Most sources agree that Tears of the Kingdom takes place roughly five to six years after the events of Breath of the Wild.
11. How Old is Link in Most Zelda Games?
Link is typically portrayed as being under 18 years old, though his exact age varies between games. In the original Legend of Zelda, he was said to be 10, while in Twilight Princess he was 17.
12. How Big are Rupees in Zelda?
A typical in-game Rupee is described as a palm size object, measuring about 3 inches tip-to-tip and 1.5 inches across, weighing around 30 grams (one ounce).
13. Should I Give the Fairies 100 Rupees?
Great Fairies will require one-time transactions of Rupees to upgrade your gear. The first fairy needs 100 Rupees, the second 500, the third 1,000, and the fourth asks for a massive 10,000 Rupees.
14. What is the Best Item to Sell in Breath of the Wild?
Meat Skewers made from rare cuts of meat such as Raw Prime and Gourmet Meat are among the best items to sell in Breath of the Wild. Hunting for quality meat can be a very profitable endeavor.
15. Are there Cheats in Tears of the Kingdom?
While Tears of the Kingdom does not have any actual cheat codes, it does have various exploits and secrets that players can use to gain an advantage.
Conclusion
The Zelda Rupee is far more than a simple currency within a video game; it is a symbol steeped in history, design, and gameplay mechanics. Its name, derived from the Sanskrit “rupya,” connects the game to real-world monetary traditions, while its in-game evolution as colored gemstones has made it an iconic symbol of the Legend of Zelda franchise. By understanding its history, value, and the ways it is used within the games, players gain a deeper appreciation for this simple, yet essential, aspect of the Zelda universe.