Daily Debate: Who is the Zelda Series’ Most Memorable Shopkeeper?
Posted on January 16 2022 by Mike Midwood
Despite vast differences in geography and culture, Hyrule and it’s neighboring realms share a universal currency; the almighty rupee. While some of the economies in these lands operate strangely, flooding Link with cash and offering little to purchase, trading and transacting with merchants is a key component of most Zelda adventures. Thanks to the frequency of their interactions and their unique personalities, these entrepreneurs are often among their respective game’s most memorable characters. Which one is the most unforgettable?
Beedle is easily the Zelda series’ most consistent commodifier. His expressive face and exuberant vocalizations have made him a fan favorite since his first appearance in The Wind Waker, and he has been present in the majority of Zelda titles since. Beedle usually acts the kindly shop keep, delightedly selling Link items both necessary (Spoils Bag) and optional (Potion Medal). However, he occasionally presents with a bit of mystery, donning a mask and selling high value items from his “Special Ship Shop”. Whether working from a boat on the Great Sea, an airship in Skyloft, or simply traveling the hills of Akkala, Beedle is a memorable merchant always stocked with useful goods.
Some of my favorites are those who impact their game and world in interesting ways. The creatively named “Town Tool Shopkeeper” from Link’s Awakening seems aware that he’s the only market on Koholint. His better wares come at massively inflated cost, but the game actually allows Link to steal these items. Beware, though, as returning to the shop after committing a theft will invoke the shopkeeper’s wrath. He will zap Link to death, causing an instant game over. Another standout is Malo from Twilight Princess. Despite his diminutive stature, Malo is an ambitious businessman. Thankfully, he directs this drive in an admirable direction. Buying out the snobbish Chudley’s Emporium, Malo Mart expands into Hyrule Castle Town. In the process, Malo reforms Chudley of his uppity ways and creates an infectious dance move.
There are many more merchants to choose from in the Zelda series. Potions, weapons, and gear will always be needed in Hyrule, and there will always be someone to sell them. Many of these shopkeepers can be quite memorable even if they remain nameless and are optional to even encounter. On the flip side, some are integral to their game’s main plots. While technically shopkeepers, characters like the Happy Mask Salesman or Ravio have much bigger roles to fill than simple vendors.
What about you? Who is your most memorable shopkeeper? Let us know in the comments below!
Hi, I’m Mike Midwood and I’m a Senior Editor at ZeldaDungeon! Video games and literature are my greatest joys in life. An avid Zelda fan, some of my other favorite games include the Resident Evil and Dark Souls series. I hope you enjoy my content here on ZeldaDungeon!
“The sword has no strength unless the hand that holds it has courage.”
