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{{Short description|Fictional artifact in The Legend of Zelda series}}
{{Use American English|date=October 2022}}
{{Use mdy dates|date=September 2023}}
{{Infobox fictional artifact
| name            = Triforce
| image           = Trifuerza.svg
| alt             = A depiction of the Triforce, three golden equilateral triangles with one triangle positioned above the other two triangles
| caption         = A depiction of the Triforce as it appears in ''[[The Legend of Zelda]]'' franchise
| source          = [[The Legend of Zelda]]
| source_type     = video game franchise
| company         = [[Nintendo]]
| first           = [[The Legend of Zelda (video game)|The Legend of Zelda]]
| date            = 1986
| genre           = [[High fantasy]] [[action-adventure]]
| type            = Fictional divine artifact
| uses            = Grants any wish to its bearer
| traits          =
| affiliation     =
}}
The {{Nihongo|'''Triforce'''|トライフォース|Toraifōsu|lead=yes}} is a fictional [[artifact (archaeology)|artifact]] and icon of [[Nintendo]]'s ''[[The Legend of Zelda]]'' video game franchise. It first appeared in the original ''[[The Legend of Zelda (video game)|The Legend of Zelda]]'' video game (1986) and has appeared in every subsequent game in the series. It consists of three [[equilateral triangle]]s that are joined to form a large equilateral triangle. In the fictional history of the series, it represents the essence of the Golden Goddesses named [[Din (The Legend of Zelda)|Din]], [[Nayru]] and [[Farore]] who create [[Hyrule]]. Imbued with divine power, it is capable of granting any wish to anyone who possesses it.
The three pieces of the Triforce are in the possession of the three main characters of the series, [[Ganon]], [[Princess Zelda|Zelda]] and [[Link (The Legend of Zelda)|Link]], who each embody one of its virtues: Power, Wisdom and Courage. The Triforce has frequently been the main objective in the series, requiring the player to search for its shards and protect it from Ganon, who seeks its power for evil purposes.
The Triforce is a central motif of ''The Legend of Zelda'' series, frequently appearing in ''Zelda'' iconography and merchandise. It has appeared in related media, including [[The Legend of Zelda manga|manga]], video games and an [[The Legend of Zelda (Television Series)|animated television series]]. Due to its prominence and significance within the mythology of the ''Zelda'' series, the Triforce has become a widely recognisable symbol in gaming.
== Background ==
Although the Triforce has become associated with ''[[The Legend of Zelda]]'' series, an identical symbol originated nearly 1,000 years before in [[medieval Japan]]. The symbol takes historical reference from the [[Hōjō clan]], a family that took control of Japan in the [[13th century]]. Its emblem (''[[Mon (emblem)|mon]]'') was the ''mitsuuroko'', or "three scales". The symbol also appears frequently in contemporary Japanese culture. It appears on the logos for large and small businesses and can be found on temples and family memorials. Since the release of [[The Legend of Zelda (video game)|''The Legend of Zelda'' video game]] in 1986, the Triforce has become a recognisable icon of ''The Legend of Zelda'' series, appearing in every game in some form, particularly as part of the heraldry of the [[Kingdom of Hyrule]].<ref name=":1">{{cite web|last=Plunkett|first=Luke|date=September 21, 2011|title=The Real History of the Triforce|url=http://kotaku.com/5823249/the-real-history-of-the-triforce|access-date=June 17, 2014|website=Kotaku|archive-date=June 4, 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140604053804/http://kotaku.com/5823249/the-real-history-of-the-triforce|url-status=live}}</ref>
== Concept and creation ==
[[Shigeru Miyamoto]], creator of ''The Legend of Zelda'' series, explained his vision for the first game in an interview with ''[[Gamekult]]''. He said that the Triforce fragments were originally supposed to be electronic chips, as the game was intended to be set in both the past and the future. This early futuristic concept was abandoned and replaced by a heroic fantasy.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Audureau |first=William |date=2012-11-01 |title=Miyamoto, la Wii U et le secret de la Triforce |url=https://www.gamekult.com/actualite/miyamoto-la-wii-u-et-le-secret-de-la-triforce-105550.html |access-date=2023-09-02 |website=www.gamekult.com |language=fr |archive-date=2023-09-03 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230903110859/https://www.gamekult.com/actualite/miyamoto-la-wii-u-et-le-secret-de-la-triforce-105550.html |url-status=live}}</ref> In ''The Legend of Zelda'' video game, the Triforce was simply described as magical triangles of great power, but its significance was expanded in subsequent games. The first game established it as an object of desire and a central plot device that binds the three characters. Initially comprising two pieces, the third piece, the Triforce of Courage, was introduced in ''[[Zelda II: The Adventure of Link|Zelda II: The Adventure Of Link]]''.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Thorpe |first=Nick |date=2023-04-08 |title=The fascinating, complex and generations-spanning history of The Legend of Zelda |url=https://www.gamesradar.com/history-of-the-legend-of-zelda/ |access-date=2023-09-03 |website=GamesRadar+ |language=en |archive-date=2023-09-03 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230903160544/https://www.gamesradar.com/history-of-the-legend-of-zelda/ |url-status=live}}</ref>
== Characteristics ==
The Triforce consists of three equilateral triangles that are joined to create a large equilateral triangle. Its design resembles the [[Sierpiński triangle]]. The three pieces are the Triforce of Power, the Triforce of Wisdom, and the Triforce of Courage, which represent the qualities of the Golden Goddesses who create the land of Hyrule, named Din, the Goddess of Power; Nayru, the Goddess of Wisdom; and Farore, the Goddess of Courage. In the [[creation myth]] of the series, they create the Triforce and entrust it to the Goddess [[Hylia (The Legend of Zelda)|Hylia]]. As a divine relic infused with the power of the goddesses, the Triforce is an object of limitless power, capable of granting any wish to anyone who touches it. Its place of origin is known as the Sacred Realm.<ref name=":0">{{Cite web |last=Greenbaum |first=Aaron |date=2022-09-29 |title=The Legend of Zelda: Who Created the Triforce? |url=https://www.denofgeek.com/games/the-legend-of-zelda-who-created-the-triforce/ |access-date=2023-08-22 |website=Den of Geek |language=en-US |archive-date=2023-05-13 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230513192839/https://www.denofgeek.com/games/the-legend-of-zelda-who-created-the-triforce/ |url-status=live}}</ref>
The Triforce can only be wielded by someone who possesses a balance of the three virtues in their heart: Power, Wisdom and Courage. Conversely, if held by someone with an imbalanced heart, it splits into three pieces, with each piece bestowed on a person who represents that quality.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Wilcox |first=Matthew |date=2023-07-19 |title=Tears Of The Kingdom: Zelda Might Have All Three Pieces Of The Triforce |url=https://screenrant.com/zelda-tears-kingdom-full-triforce-princess-zelda-powers/ |access-date=2023-09-03 |website=ScreenRant |language=en |archive-date=2023-09-03 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230903075351/https://screenrant.com/zelda-tears-kingdom-full-triforce-princess-zelda-powers/ |url-status=live}}</ref> The three virtues of the Triforce are distributed amongst the three main characters in the series respectively, [[Ganon]], [[Princess Zelda]] and [[Link (The Legend of Zelda)|Link]].<ref name=":1" /> In some ''Zelda'' games, it manifests as a symbol on the hand of the bearer of one of the pieces.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Gray |first=Kate |date=2022-12-24 |title=16 Theories About Link's Weird Arm In Zelda: Breath Of The Wild 2 |url=https://www.nintendolife.com/features/16-theories-about-links-weird-arm-in-zelda-breath-of-the-wild-2 |access-date=2023-08-22 |website=Nintendo Life |language=en-GB |archive-date=2023-08-22 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230822171750/https://www.nintendolife.com/features/16-theories-about-links-weird-arm-in-zelda-breath-of-the-wild-2 |url-status=live}}</ref> The trinity within the Triforce creates a moral balance, with evil seeking Power, and Wisdom and Courage being the opposing forces for good.<ref name=":7" /> A recurring theme of the series is Ganon's plan to steal the Triforce from the Sacred Realm in order to use its power to conquer Hyrule, which is ultimately thwarted by Link and Zelda. This places the three characters in an endless battle that is repeated across the [[The Legend of Zelda Timeline|fictional timeline]] within a reincarnation cycle.<ref name=":3">{{Cite magazine |last=Reeves |first=Ben |title=The Evolution Of Ganon |url=https://www.gameinformer.com/b/features/archive/2012/08/09/the-evolution-of-ganon.aspx |access-date=2023-09-03 |magazine=Game Informer |language=en |archive-date=2020-11-12 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201112011110/https://www.gameinformer.com/b/features/archive/2012/08/09/the-evolution-of-ganon.aspx |url-status=dead}}</ref>
==Appearances==
===''The Legend of Zelda'' series===
[[File:Link and Hylian Shield.jpg|thumb|right|alt=Link holding aloft the Hylian Shield which displays the Triforce above a Crimson Loftwing |Link holds the Hylian Shield in ''[[The Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword]]''. The Triforce is set above the Crimson Loftwing in the Hyrule Royal Crest.]]
The Triforce is a common symbol found in the series. It is connected with the Royal Family of Hyrule and displayed as part of the Hyrule Royal Family's signature crest, which combines the Triforce with a fictional bird called a Crimson Loftwing. It is also found on various objects within the games such as the [[Master Sword]] and the Hylian Shield<ref>{{Cite web |last=Serrano |first=Ryan |date=2020-08-31 |title=Nintendo Arsenal: The Legend of Zelda's Master Sword, Explained |url=https://www.cbr.com/nintendo-arsenal-zelda-master-sword-explained/ |access-date=2023-09-04 |website=CBR |language=en |archive-date=2023-08-19 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230819235103/https://www.cbr.com/nintendo-arsenal-zelda-master-sword-explained/ |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|last=Kooser|first=Amanda|title=Real-life Legend of Zelda shield could withstand a medieval battle|url=https://www.cnet.com/tech/computing/real-life-legend-of-zelda-hylian-shield-could-withstand-an-sca-battle/|access-date=2021-09-15|website=CNET|language=en|archive-date=2021-09-15|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210915112935/https://www.cnet.com/tech/computing/real-life-legend-of-zelda-hylian-shield-could-withstand-an-sca-battle/|url-status=live}}</ref> and on sacred sites, such as the Temple of Time.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Loveland |first=Justin |date=2021-08-25 |title=How Zelda's Temple Of Time Changed, From Ocarina of Time To BOTW |url=https://screenrant.com/zelda-temple-time-hyrule-changes-difference/ |access-date=2021-09-19 |website=ScreenRant |language=en-US |archive-date=2021-10-08 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211008093630/https://screenrant.com/zelda-temple-time-hyrule-changes-difference/ |url-status=live}}</ref>
In 1986, the original [[The Legend of Zelda (video game)|''The Legend of Zelda'' video game]] introduced the Triforce, which consisted of two pieces, as a central plot device. It involves the hero, Link, embarking on a quest to save Hyrule from the evil Ganon, who has stolen the Triforce of Power. After Princess Zelda splits the Triforce of Wisdom into eight fragments and scatters them across the land, Link must search for the fragments and reassemble them to rescue Princess Zelda and defeat Ganon.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Scullion |first=Chris |date=2021-02-21 |title=Happy 35th Birthday Zelda, one of gaming's greatest series |url=https://www.videogameschronicle.com/features/opinion/happy-35th-birthday-zelda-one-of-gamings-greatest-series/ |access-date=2023-09-04 |website=VGC |language=en-GB |archive-date=2023-09-04 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230904180332/https://www.videogameschronicle.com/features/opinion/happy-35th-birthday-zelda-one-of-gamings-greatest-series/ |url-status=live}}</ref>
''[[Zelda II: The Adventure of Link]]'' (1987) established the Triforce of Courage as the third piece of the Triforce.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Scullion |first=Chris |date=2015-08-25 |title=The most unappreciated Zelda game is secretly its most innovative |url=https://www.gamesradar.com/zelda-2-adventure-link-unappreciated-secret-innovative/ |access-date=2023-09-04 |website=GamesRadar+ |language=en |archive-date=2023-09-04 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230904185809/https://www.gamesradar.com/zelda-2-adventure-link-unappreciated-secret-innovative/ |url-status=live}}</ref> The game's instruction manual tells the backstory of Princess Zelda being placed in a magical sleep by a wizard and sets Link's fate as the hero who will wake her by marking the back of his hand with the Triforce.<ref>{{Cite magazine |last=Hilliard |first=Kyle |title=Looking Back At The Only Entry That Isn't Legendary – Zelda II: The Adventure Of Link |url=https://www.gameinformer.com/b/features/archive/2017/05/29/looking-back-a-the-only-entry-that-isn-39-t-legendary-zelda-ii-the-adventure-of-link.aspx |access-date=2023-09-04 |magazine=Game Informer |language=en |archive-date=2023-09-04 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230904190753/https://www.gameinformer.com/b/features/archive/2017/05/29/looking-back-a-the-only-entry-that-isn-39-t-legendary-zelda-ii-the-adventure-of-link.aspx |url-status=dead}}</ref> The story involves Link obtaining six crystals and then claiming the Triforce of Courage from the Great Palace. Using the three pieces of the Triforce, he is able to awaken sleeping Zelda from her curse.<ref name=":4">{{Cite web |last=Elston |first=Brett |date=2007-09-29 |title=Looking back: The Legend of Zelda |url=https://www.gamesradar.com/looking-back-the-legend-of-zelda/ |access-date=2023-09-05 |website=GamesRadar+ |language=en |archive-date=2023-09-05 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230905161527/https://www.gamesradar.com/looking-back-the-legend-of-zelda/ |url-status=live}}</ref>
The third game in the series titled ''[[A Link to the Past]]'' (1991) introduces a detailed fictional lore for the Triforce. In Japan, it was released with the title ''Triforce of the Gods''.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Walker |first=Matt |date=27 April 2010 |title=Flyer for "The Legend of Zelda: Triforce of the Gods" |url=http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/blog/22981/flyer-for-the-legend-of-zelda-triforce-of-the-gods |access-date=2023-09-05 |website=Nintendo World Report |archive-date=2023-09-05 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230905194057/http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/blog/22981/flyer-for-the-legend-of-zelda-triforce-of-the-gods |url-status=live}}</ref> The game's instruction booklet provides the creation myth explaining how three Golden Goddesses named Din, Nayru, and Farore descended to create the land of Hyrule and then created the Triforce and imbued it with the essence of their power.<ref name=":0" /> In the game's backstory, Ganon enters the Sacred Realm to steal the Triforce and plunges it into darkness, creating the Dark World.<ref name=":3" /> To prevent Ganon from escaping and destroying the Light World, Link saves Zelda and the Sages. In the final scenes, he uses the Triforce to wish for the characters in the game to be restored.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Berube |first=Justin |date=24 February 2014 |title=Prologue to Nintendo's Timeline - Feature |url=http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/feature/36613/zelda-a-link-between-worlds-timeline-problems-and-solutions-prologue-to-nintendos-timeline |access-date=2023-09-08 |website=Nintendo World Report |archive-date=2023-09-08 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230908181343/http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/feature/36613/zelda-a-link-between-worlds-timeline-problems-and-solutions-prologue-to-nintendos-timeline |url-status=live}}</ref>
Ganon, in his humanoid form of Ganondorf, again pursues his goal of obtaining the Triforce in ''[[Ocarina of Time]]'' (1998). Ganondorf manages to gain entry to the Sacred Realm and takes over Hyrule, plunging it into chaos. After a seven-year sleep, Link awakens as an adult and sets off to protect the Triforce from Ganondorf by travelling back and forth in time. With the help of Seven Sages, he successfully defeats Ganondorf by sealing him in the Sacred Realm.<ref name=":4" /> The game established the trinity of the characters each embodying one of the virtues of the Triforce.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Watts |first=Steve |date=25 May 2023 |title=Zelda: Tears Of The Kingdom Inverts One Of The Oldest Story Tropes |url=https://www.gamespot.com/articles/zelda-tears-of-the-kingdom-inverts-one-of-the-oldest-story-tropes/1100-6514567/#google_vignette |access-date=2023-09-05 |website=GameSpot |language=en-US |archive-date=2023-05-28 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230528232022/https://www.gamespot.com/articles/zelda-tears-of-the-kingdom-inverts-one-of-the-oldest-story-tropes/1100-6514567/#google_vignette |url-status=live}}</ref>
When the game duo titled [[The Legend of Zelda: Oracle of Seasons and Oracle of Ages|''The Legend of Zelda: Oracle of Seasons'' and ''Oracle of Ages'']] (2001) were conceived, they were originally intended to be a trilogy, with each story centred on one of the three virtues of the Triforce.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Elliot |first=Patrick |date=2023-07-28 |title=Review: The Legend Of Zelda: Oracle Of Ages - An Engrossing Tale And True Series Classic |url=https://www.nintendolife.com/reviews/3ds-eshop/the-legend-of-zelda-oracle-of-ages |access-date=2023-09-23 |website=Nintendo Life |language=en-GB}}</ref> In each game the Triforce initiates the adventure by summoning Link and transporting him to the worlds of Holodrum and Labrynna to collect eight Essences of Nature or Time in order to defeat the games' villains, Onox and Veran.<ref name=":4" />
In ''[[The Wind Waker]]'' (2002), Link must collect eight pieces of the Triforce of Courage, which are scattered across the islands on the map, before he is ready to confront Ganondorf. The Triforce hunt, which was described by ''[[GameSpot]]'' as "infamous", is a lengthy process involving finding the chart locations, returning to [[Tingle (character)|Tingle]] and then finding the Triforce shards.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Wright |first=Steven |date=24 March 2023 |title=Zelda: The Wind Waker Is An Unfinished Masterpiece That Predicted The Series' Future |url=https://www.gamespot.com/articles/zelda-the-wind-waker-is-an-unfinished-masterpiece-that-predicted-the-series-future/1100-6512598/#google_vignette |access-date=2023-09-02 |website=GameSpot |language=en-US |archive-date=2023-09-02 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230902200057/https://www.gamespot.com/articles/zelda-the-wind-waker-is-an-unfinished-masterpiece-that-predicted-the-series-future/1100-6512598/#google_vignette |url-status=live}}</ref> Due to the tedious nature of the task, it was later simplified in ''The Wind Waker HD''.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Gifford |first=Kevin |date=2013-08-07 |title=Wind Waker HD to 'greatly simplify' Triforce shard-hunting process |url=https://www.polygon.com/2013/8/7/4597650/wind-waker-hd-to-greatly-simply-the-triforce-shard-hunting-process |access-date=2023-09-02 |website=Polygon |language=en-US |archive-date=2023-09-02 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230902120802/https://www.polygon.com/2013/8/7/4597650/wind-waker-hd-to-greatly-simply-the-triforce-shard-hunting-process |url-status=live}}</ref> In the finale, Ganondorf unites the Triforce, but before he can make his wish to rule Hyrule, the King of Hyrule's spirit touches it and wishes for Hyrule to be destroyed, resulting in a final battle between Ganondorf, Link and Zelda.<ref>{{Cite web|last=Vito Oddo|first=Marco|date=2021-07-02|title=Best Zelda Bosses, Ranked: The 10 Best Fights in the Franchise|url=https://collider.com/best-zelda-bosses-ranked/|url-status=live|access-date=2021-09-19|website=Collider|language=en-US|archive-date=2021-10-27|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211027064722/https://collider.com/best-zelda-bosses-ranked/}}</ref>
The Triforce does not play a major role in ''[[Twilight Princess]]'' (2006). At the beginning of the game, each of the three main characters is shown to be in possession of their individual component by glowing triangles that appear on their hands,<ref name=":5">{{Cite web |last=Richtmyer |first=Steven |date=2020-08-06 |title=All 4 Times The Legend of Zelda's Triforce Was Split (& Why) |url=https://screenrant.com/zelda-triforce-pieces-broken-how-ganon-hyrule-gods/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210916111127/https://screenrant.com/zelda-triforce-pieces-broken-how-ganon-hyrule-gods/ |archive-date=2021-09-16 |access-date=2021-09-16 |website=ScreenRant |language=en-US}}</ref> but otherwise the Triforce only appears on murals and buildings.<ref>{{Cite web |last=O'Gorman |first=Shane Michael |date=2022-06-30 |title=How The Triforce Manifests in Every Legend of Zelda Game |url=https://gamerant.com/the-legend-of-zelda-triforce-all-appearances-skyward-sword-ocarina-twilight-princess-botw-lttp-link-between-worlds/ |access-date=2023-09-23 |website=Game Rant |language=en}}</ref>
''[[Skyward Sword]]'' (2011) again focuses on the creation of the Triforce by the three Goddesses. In the game's backstory, demonic creatures rise from cracks in the earth led by Demonic King Demise with the intention of claiming the Triforce. To protect it, the goddess Hylia commands an army of the world's people to fight Demise. She seals him away and after becoming mortal, sends the humans to live above the surface world in Skyloft. She hides the Triforce in the sky to await the hero, Link, who recovers the three Triforce pieces from the Sky Keep and uses its powers to defeat Demise.<ref>{{Cite web|last=Vito Oddo|first=Marco|date=2021-07-20|title='Skyward Sword' Ending Explained: And So 'The Legend of Zelda' Begins|url=https://collider.com/skyward-sword-ending-explained/|url-status=live|access-date=2021-09-17|website=Collider|language=en-US|archive-date=2021-09-07|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210907215654/https://collider.com/skyward-sword-ending-explained/}}</ref>
In ''[[A Link Between Worlds]]'' (2013), another version of the Triforce was introduced in the fictional universe. In Japan, the game is known as ''Triforce of the Gods 2'', as it is a spiritual sequel to ''A Link to the Past''.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Colwander |first=Michael |date=2022-02-27 |title=10 Games That Have Different Names In Different Regions |url=https://www.cbr.com/games-different-names-different-regions/ |access-date=2023-09-09 |website=CBR |language=en |archive-date=2023-01-22 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230122103918/https://www.cbr.com/games-different-names-different-regions/ |url-status=live}}</ref> It takes place in two mirrored worlds, the Light World (Hyrule) and the Dark World (Lorule). Unlike Hyrule, Lorule has crumbled, caused by its people destroying its own Triforce, due to it being the cause of war. To save her world, Princess Hilda plots to steal Hyrule's Triforce. By the end of the game, she sympathises with Hyrule and allows Link and Zelda to return there with their Triforce. In an act of compassion, the two use the Hyrulean Triforce to recreate Lorule's Triforce.<ref name=":0" />
Nintendo published ''[[Tri Force Heroes]]'' (2015) for the [[3DS]], a cooperative multiplayer game involving three Links dressed in red, blue and green. Hiromasa Shikata, the game's director, explained that the concept for the game was a "triangular relationship between three players".<ref>{{Cite web |last=Nunneley-Jackson |first=Stephany |date=2015-10-23 |title=Here's why The Legend of Zelda: Tri Force Heroes contains three instead of four-player co-op |url=https://www.vg247.com/the-legend-of-zelda-tri-force-heroes-co-op |access-date=2023-09-10 |website=VG247 |language=en |archive-date=2023-09-14 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230914215545/https://www.vg247.com/the-legend-of-zelda-tri-force-heroes-co-op |url-status=live}}</ref>
Despite its prominence in the ''Zelda'' series, the Triforce plays no part in the storyline of ''[[Breath of the Wild]]'' (2017). It appears in various places within the game and manifests itself on the hand of Zelda in the battle against Calamity Ganon.<ref name=":2">{{Cite web|last=Hogeweg|first=Stan|date=2021-08-11|title=Zelda: Breath of the Wild 2 Should Bring Back One Feature the First Game Skipped|url=https://gamerant.com/zelda-breath-of-the-wild-2-triforce-link-ganon/|url-status=live|access-date=2021-09-15|website=Game Rant|language=en-US|archive-date=2021-12-27|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211227073947/https://gamerant.com/zelda-breath-of-the-wild-2-triforce-link-ganon/}}</ref> The three virtues of the Triforce are present in the form of three springs located in different regions of the map, namely the Spring of Power, the Spring of Wisdom and the Spring of Courage.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Gray |first=Kate |date=2022-11-29 |title=Random: Could Zelda: Tears Of The Kingdom Be The Final Part Of A Trilogy Of Zelda Games? |url=https://www.nintendolife.com/news/2022/11/random-could-zelda-tears-of-the-kingdom-be-the-final-part-of-a-trilogy-of-zelda-games |access-date=2023-09-02 |website=Nintendo Life |language=en-GB |archive-date=2023-09-02 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230902092420/https://www.nintendolife.com/news/2022/11/random-could-zelda-tears-of-the-kingdom-be-the-final-part-of-a-trilogy-of-zelda-games |url-status=live}}</ref> The Triforce continued to be absent from the series as a plot device with the release of ''[[The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom|Tears of the Kingdom]]'' (2023), although it appears on in-game architecture and as a tattoo on the arm of the character Sonia.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Shepard |first=Kenneth |date=2023-06-30 |title=9 Burning Questions We Have After Finishing Tears Of The Kingdom |url=https://kotaku.com/tears-of-the-kingdom-ganondorf-dragon-zelda-link-lore-1850596176 |access-date=2023-09-08 |website=Kotaku |language=en |archive-date=2023-09-08 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230908191423/https://kotaku.com/tears-of-the-kingdom-ganondorf-dragon-zelda-link-lore-1850596176 |url-status=live}}</ref> This has led to speculation amongst players that it has been abandoned as a major element of the series.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Garcia |first=Derek |date=2023-05-17 |title=Is The Triforce In Tears Of The Kingdom |url=https://screenrant.com/zelda-tears-kingdom-triforce-reference-totk/ |access-date=2023-05-24 |website=ScreenRant |language=en |archive-date=2023-05-24 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230524155322/https://screenrant.com/zelda-tears-kingdom-triforce-reference-totk/ |url-status=live}}</ref>
=== Television series ===
In [[The Legend of Zelda (TV series)|''The Legend of Zelda'' animated series]] the Triforce consists of two pieces, with Ganon possessing the Triforce of Power and Zelda possessing the Triforce of Wisdom. The plot of each episode revolves around Ganon's attempts to gain control of both Triforce pieces so that he can become the ruler of Hyrule.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Moyse |first=Chris |date=February 20, 2021 |title=I won't excuUUUuse Nintendo for The Legend of Zelda's animated antics |url=https://www.destructoid.com/i-wont-excuuuuuse-nintendo-for-the-legend-of-zeldas-animated-antics/ |access-date=2 September 2023 |website=Destructoid |archive-date=24 January 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220124103508/https://www.destructoid.com/i-wont-excuuuuuse-nintendo-for-the-legend-of-zeldas-animated-antics/ |url-status=live}}</ref> The series gave the Wisdom and Power pieces a voice and a role in the story. Phil Harnage, one of the show's writers explained that this dialogue was used to explain the show's events.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Carpenter |first=Nicole |date=2023-01-11 |title='Excuuuuse me, Princess!': An oral history of The Legend of Zelda cartoon |url=https://www.polygon.com/zelda/23540526/legend-of-zelda-cartoon-oral-history-zeldathon |access-date=2023-04-01 |website=Polygon |language=en-US |archive-date=2023-03-28 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230328133858/https://www.polygon.com/zelda/23540526/legend-of-zelda-cartoon-oral-history-zeldathon |url-status=live}}</ref> The cartoon's voice cast included [[Elizabeth Hanna]] as the Triforce of Wisdom and Allen Stewart-Coates as the Triforce of Power.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Elizabeth HANNA - Anime News Network |url=https://www.animenewsnetwork.com/encyclopedia/people.php?id=9426 |access-date=2023-09-09 |website=www.animenewsnetwork.com |archive-date=2023-04-24 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230424193738/https://www.animenewsnetwork.com/encyclopedia/people.php?id=9426 |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Allen STEWART-COATES - Anime News Network |url=https://www.animenewsnetwork.com/encyclopedia/people.php?id=93970 |access-date=2023-09-09 |website=www.animenewsnetwork.com |archive-date=2022-07-07 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220707045229/https://www.animenewsnetwork.com/encyclopedia/people.php?id=93970 |url-status=live}}</ref>
=== Manga and comics ===
Following the release of ''The Legend of Zelda'' video game, a companion manga book titled ''The Hyrule Fantasy'' was released in Japan by Wanpaku Comics in September 1986. It follows the game's story, involving the eight fragments of the Triforce.<ref>{{Cite web |last=McClain |first=K.J. |date=2017-08-21 |title=Video: Take a Detailed Look at the Original "Legend of Zelda" Manga |url=https://www.nintendolife.com/news/2017/08/video_take_a_detailed_look_at_the_original_legend_of_zelda_manga |access-date=2023-09-04 |website=Nintendo Life |language=en-GB |archive-date=2023-09-04 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230904213213/https://www.nintendolife.com/news/2017/08/video_take_a_detailed_look_at_the_original_legend_of_zelda_manga |url-status=live}}</ref> In 1992, a ''[[Choose Your Own Adventure]]''-style book was released in Japanese titled ''The Legend of Zelda: The Triforce of the Gods''. It was based on ''A Link to the Past'', though some story elements deviated from the game.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Hagues |first=Alana |date=2022-05-23 |title=Random: The Final Zelda Choose-Your-Own-Adventure Book Has Been Uncovered |url=https://www.nintendolife.com/news/2022/05/random-the-final-zelda-choose-your-own-adventure-book-has-been-uncovered |access-date=2023-09-09 |website=Nintendo Life |language=en-GB |archive-date=2023-05-28 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230528135813/https://www.nintendolife.com/news/2022/05/random-the-final-zelda-choose-your-own-adventure-book-has-been-uncovered |url-status=live}}</ref> Two manga adaptations of ''A Link to the Past'' were also published by Ataru Cagiva in 1995 and [[Akira Himekawa]] in 2005 with the Japanese title ''Triforce of the Gods''.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Zelda no Densetsu: Kamigami no Triforce (manga, Ataru Cagiva) - Anime News Network |url=https://www.animenewsnetwork.com/encyclopedia/manga.php?id=9216 |access-date=2023-09-09 |website=www.animenewsnetwork.com |archive-date=2022-07-05 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220705192459/https://www.animenewsnetwork.com/encyclopedia/manga.php?id=9216 |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=The Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past (manga Akira Himekawa) - Anime News Network |url=https://www.animenewsnetwork.com/encyclopedia/manga.php?id=5944 |access-date=2023-09-09 |website=www.animenewsnetwork.com |archive-date=2022-10-08 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221008095703/https://www.animenewsnetwork.com/encyclopedia/manga.php?id=5944 |url-status=live}}</ref> Akira Himekawa also produced a manga book published by [[Viz Media]], which is based on ''Ocarina of Time'' and follows the game's plot involving Link's quest to protect the Triforce from Ganondorf.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-09-09 |title=The Legend of Zelda –Ocarina of Time– GN 1 |url=https://www.animenewsnetwork.com/review/the-legend-of-zelda-ocarina-of-time/gn-1 |access-date=2023-09-09 |website=Anime News Network |language=en |archive-date=2021-11-17 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211117014537/https://www.animenewsnetwork.com/review/the-legend-of-zelda-ocarina-of-time/gn-1 |url-status=live}}</ref> In the early 1990s, [[Valiant Comics]] published ''The Legend of Zelda'' comic book based on the animated series. In the third issue, Link is corrupted by the Triforce of Power and attacks Zelda to obtain the Triforce of Wisdom. In the fifth issue, the second storyline is titled "The Day of the Triforce", which involves Link battling without his Triforce power due to its disappearance.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Carpenter |first=Nicole |date=2023-03-28 |title=Remember the time when Link turned into Ganon in The Legend of Zelda? |url=https://www.polygon.com/zelda/23645381/legend-of-zelda-comic-book-valiant-ridiculous-moments |access-date=2023-09-05 |website=Polygon |language=en-US |archive-date=2023-06-03 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230603020639/https://www.polygon.com/zelda/23645381/legend-of-zelda-comic-book-valiant-ridiculous-moments |url-status=live}}</ref>
=== Video games ===
The Triforce has appeared in various other video games. In the series spin-off [[hack and slash]] video game ''[[Hyrule Warriors]]'' (2014), the Triforce is the objective for one of the main antagonists, Cia. Originally a guardian of the Triforce, she is corrupted by Ganon after displaying affections for Link and builds an army to obtain the Triforce.<ref>{{Cite web|last=Lam|first=Claris|date=2021-05-24|title=The Legend Of Zelda: 10 Most Sympathetic Villains, Ranked|url=https://www.cbr.com/zelda-sympathetic-villains-ranked/|url-status=live|access-date=2021-09-19|website=CBR|language=en-US|archive-date=2021-09-20|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210920212603/https://www.cbr.com/zelda-sympathetic-villains-ranked/}}</ref> It also appears in the ''[[Super Smash Bros.]]'' series. In ''[[Super Smash Bros. Brawl]]'' Link uses the Triforce in his final smash.<ref>{{Cite web |last= |first= |date=2008-01-18 |title=Super Smash Bros. Brawl |url=https://www.gamesradar.com/super-smash-bros-brawl-10/ |access-date=2023-09-24 |website=GamesRadar+ |language=en}}</ref> In ''[[Super Smash Bros. for Nintendo 3DS and Wii U|Super Smash Bros for Nintendo 3DS and Wii U]]'', Link's and Toon Link's final smash is the Triforce Slash, which traps enemies in the Triforce before relentlessly slashing at them.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Super Smash Bros. for Wii U guide @ HonestGamers Guides |url=http://www.honestgamers.com/guides/super-smash-bros-for-wii-u/44/read/791.html |access-date=2023-09-24 |website=Honest Gamers}}</ref> In ''[[Super Smash Bros. Ultimate]]'', the Triforce Slash appears in Toon Link's and Young Link's "Final Smash" attack.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Green |first=Jake |date=2020-01-17 |title=Toon Link Super Smash Bros Ultimate Guide - Unlock, Moves, Changes, Toon Link Alternate Costumes, Final Smash |url=https://www.vg247.com/super-smash-bros-ultimate-character-every-fighter-in-smash-bros-ultimate?page=54 |access-date=2023-09-06 |website=VG247 |language=en |archive-date=2023-09-06 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230906153905/https://www.vg247.com/super-smash-bros-ultimate-character-every-fighter-in-smash-bros-ultimate?page=54 |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Green |first=Jake |date=2020-01-17 |title=Young Link Super Smash Bros Ultimate Guide - Unlock, Moves, Changes, Young Link Alternate Costumes, Final Smash |url=https://www.vg247.com/super-smash-bros-ultimate-character-every-fighter-in-smash-bros-ultimate?page=28 |access-date=2023-09-06 |website=VG247 |language=en |archive-date=2023-09-06 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230906153909/https://www.vg247.com/super-smash-bros-ultimate-character-every-fighter-in-smash-bros-ultimate?page=28 |url-status=live}}</ref> In the same game, Zelda uses the Triforce of Wisdom as her Final Smash, which produces a glowing triangle that sucks in opponents and deals damage.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Green |first=Jake |date=2020-01-17 |title=Zelda Super Smash Bros Ultimate Guide - Unlock, Moves, Changes, Zelda Alternate Costumes, Final Smash |url=https://www.vg247.com/super-smash-bros-ultimate-character-every-fighter-in-smash-bros-ultimate?page=22 |access-date=2023-09-06 |website=VG247 |language=en |archive-date=2023-09-06 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230906142742/https://www.vg247.com/super-smash-bros-ultimate-character-every-fighter-in-smash-bros-ultimate?page=22 |url-status=live}}</ref> In ''[[Sonic Lost World]]''{{'}}s ''The Legend of Zelda'' DLC stage, [[Sonic the Hedgehog (character)|Sonic the Hedgehog]] travels through Hyrule in search of the Triforce.<ref>{{Cite web|last=Farokhmanesh|first=Megan|date=2014-03-26|title=Sonic: Lost World gets free The Legend of Zelda DLC stage March 27|url=https://www.polygon.com/2014/3/26/5550670/sonic-lost-world-gets-free-the-legend-of-zelda-dlc-stage-march-27|access-date=2021-09-16|website=Polygon|language=en|archive-date=2021-09-16|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210916130122/https://www.polygon.com/2014/3/26/5550670/sonic-lost-world-gets-free-the-legend-of-zelda-dlc-stage-march-27|url-status=live}}</ref> In ''[[Mario Kart 8]]''{{'}}s ''The Legend of Zelda × Mario Kart 8'' expansion pack and its [[Mario Kart 8 Deluxe|enhanced Nintendo Switch port]], one of the grand prix cups is known as the "Triforce Cup" with custom vehicle parts including the Triforce Tires.<ref>{{Cite web|last=Carter|first=Chris|date=2017-05-09|title=Mario Kart 8 Deluxe shortcuts|url=https://www.polygon.com/mario-kart-8-deluxe-guide/2017/5/9/15593724/shortcuts|access-date=2021-09-16|website=Polygon|language=en|archive-date=2021-09-16|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210916124444/https://www.polygon.com/mario-kart-8-deluxe-guide/2017/5/9/15593724/shortcuts|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Miller |first=Zachary |date=1 December 2014 |title=Mario Kart 8 DLC Pack 1 Review |url=http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/review/39135/mario-kart-8-dlc-pack-1-review |access-date=2023-09-05 |website=Nintendo World Report |archive-date=2023-09-05 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230905132924/http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/review/39135/mario-kart-8-dlc-pack-1-review |url-status=live}}</ref> The Triforce was used in ''[[Splatoon 3]]'' by Nintendo to promote ''[[The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom|Tears of the Kingdom]]'' prior to its release in May 2023. In the Triforce Splatfest, players were asked to choose Power, Wisdom or Courage as their team. The Tricolor Turf War was fought on a triangular map to represent the shape of the Triforce.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Erskine |first=Donovan |date=2023-04-14 |title=Splatoon 3 celebrates Tears of the Kingdom with a Triforce Splatfest |url=https://www.shacknews.com/article/135061/splatoon-3-zelda-totk-splatfest |access-date=2023-05-20 |website=Shacknews |language=en |archive-date=2023-05-20 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230520062225/https://www.shacknews.com/article/135061/splatoon-3-zelda-totk-splatfest |url-status=live}}</ref>
=== Other media ===
In 2017, Nintendo rolled out an [[escape room]] experience across eight cities in North America titled "Defenders of the Triforce".<ref>{{Cite web |last=Perez |first=Daniel |date=2016-11-16 |title=The Legend of Zelda gets its own escape room experience in 'Defenders of the Triforce' |url=https://www.shacknews.com/article/97710/the-legend-of-zelda-gets-its-own-escape-room-experience-in-defenders-of-the-triforce |access-date=2023-09-09 |website=Shacknews |language=en |archive-date=2020-08-15 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200815112301/https://www.shacknews.com/article/97710/the-legend-of-zelda-gets-its-own-escape-room-experience-in-defenders-of-the-triforce |url-status=live}}</ref>
"Triforce" is also a name given to an [[List of Sega arcade system boards#Triforce|arcade board system]] that was a joint venture from three companies; [[Namco]], [[Nintendo]] and [[Sega]] using a combination of Nintendo [[GameCube]] and Sega [[GD-ROM]] hardware inside a Namco cabinet.<ref>{{Cite web|last=Varanini|first=Giancarlo|date=19 September 2002|title=JAMMA 2002: Triforce arcade board in action|url=https://www.gamespot.com/articles/jamma-2002-triforce-arcade-board-in-action/1100-2880706/|url-status=live|access-date=2021-09-14|website=GameSpot|language=en-US|archive-date=2021-09-14|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210914210402/https://www.gamespot.com/articles/jamma-2002-triforce-arcade-board-in-action/1100-2880706/}}</ref>
=== In popular culture ===
The Triforce has been used as a [[shibboleth]] and a [[meme]] to embarrass newer users of the [[imageboard]] website [[4chan]]. Experienced users write it using [[Unicode]] characters, but copying and pasting the Triforce results in the symbol becoming misaligned.<ref name="Stryker2011">{{cite book|author=Cole Stryker|title=Epic Win for Anonymous: How 4chan's Army Conquered the Web|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=wPSGDwAAQBAJ&pg=PT135|date=1 September 2011|publisher=ABRAMS|isbn=978-1-59020-738-3|page=135|access-date=18 May 2020|archive-date=29 April 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210429063339/https://books.google.com/books?id=wPSGDwAAQBAJ&pg=PT135|url-status=live}}</ref>
Due to its simple design and popularity with gamers, the Triforce has become one of the most popular gaming tattoos.<ref name=":9">{{Cite web |last=Carpenter |first=Nicole |date=2023-02-01 |title=Everyone's got a Triforce tattoo |url=https://www.polygon.com/zelda/23580122/legend-of-zelda-triforce-tattoo |access-date=2023-04-01 |website=Polygon |language=en-US |archive-date=2023-04-01 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230401175722/https://www.polygon.com/zelda/23580122/legend-of-zelda-triforce-tattoo |url-status=live}}</ref> Professional wrestler [[Cody Rhodes]], a longtime ''Legend of Zelda'' fan, formerly had the Triforce on his wrestling boots in his early career with the [[WWE]].<ref>{{Cite magazine |last=Stewart |first=Marcus |date=2024-01-29 |title=WWE 2K24 Cover Star Cody Rhodes Shares Zelda Opinions And His Most Anticipated Games Of 2024 |url=https://www.gameinformer.com/interview/2024/01/29/wwe-2k24-cover-star-cody-rhodes-shares-zelda-opinions-and-his-most-anticipated |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240129204720/https://www.gameinformer.com/interview/2024/01/29/wwe-2k24-cover-star-cody-rhodes-shares-zelda-opinions-and-his-most-anticipated |url-status=dead |archive-date=January 29, 2024 |access-date=2024-02-26 |magazine=Game Informer |language=en}}</ref>
The Triforce has inspired the production of ''Zelda''-themed products, including a beer named Triforce IPA.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Erickson |first=Nate |date=2018-01-18 |title=Restore Some Hearts with This 'Legend of Zelda'-Inspired Beer |url=https://www.esquire.com/food-drink/drinks/a15390146/triforce-ipa-legend-of-zelda-beer/ |access-date=2023-09-02 |website=Esquire |language=en-US |archive-date=2023-09-02 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230902130656/https://www.esquire.com/food-drink/drinks/a15390146/triforce-ipa-legend-of-zelda-beer/ |url-status=live}}</ref>
In 2023, the British metal band [[DragonForce]] released a single titled "[[Power of the Triforce]]", which is a tribute to ''The Legend of Zelda'' series.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Reynolds |first=Ollie |date=2023-10-19 |title=Random: Dragonforce's Latest Single Is A Perfect Tribute To The Legend of Zelda |url=https://www.nintendolife.com/news/2023/10/random-dragonforces-latest-single-is-a-perfect-tribute-to-the-legend-of-zelda |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231019154559/https://www.nintendolife.com/news/2023/10/random-dragonforces-latest-single-is-a-perfect-tribute-to-the-legend-of-zelda |archive-date=19 October 2023 |access-date=2023-10-21 |website=Nintendo Life |language=en-GB}}</ref>
== Merchandise ==
The Triforce regularly appears on official ''Zelda'' merchandise, including clothing and accessories.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Best Zelda Merch: 50 Cool Items, Including Tons Of Tears Of The Kingdom Stuff |url=https://www.gamespot.com/gallery/best-zelda-merch-50-cool-items-including-tons-of-tears-of-the-kingdom-stuff/2900-4169/#1 |access-date=2023-09-02 |website=GameSpot |language=en-US |archive-date=2023-07-29 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230729203102/https://www.gamespot.com/gallery/best-zelda-merch-50-cool-items-including-tons-of-tears-of-the-kingdom-stuff/2900-4169/#1 |url-status=live}}</ref> It is prominently displayed on the cover of ''[[The Legend of Zelda Encyclopedia]]'', which is published by [[Dark Horse Comics|Dark Horse]].<ref>{{Cite web |last=Knezevic |first=Kevin |date=24 October 2017 |title=The Legend Of Zelda Encyclopedia Is Getting An Awesome-Looking Deluxe Edition |url=https://www.gamespot.com/articles/the-legend-of-zelda-encyclopedia-is-getting-an-awe/1100-6454291/ |access-date=2023-09-09 |website=GameSpot |language=en-US |archive-date=2022-04-10 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220410172018/https://www.gamespot.com/articles/the-legend-of-zelda-encyclopedia-is-getting-an-awe/1100-6454291/ |url-status=live}}</ref> In 2023, it was recreated as a logic puzzle for Nintendo by a Japanese toy manufacturer.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Bueno |first=Daniel |date=2023-04-12 |title=The Legend of Zelda Logic Puzzles Are Based on the Triforce and Master Sword |url=https://www.siliconera.com/check-out-these-new-the-legend-of-zelda-logic-puzzles-triforce-master-sword/ |access-date=2023-09-02 |website=Siliconera |language=en-US |archive-date=2023-09-02 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230902085858/https://www.siliconera.com/check-out-these-new-the-legend-of-zelda-logic-puzzles-triforce-master-sword/ |url-status=live}}</ref> Images of the Triforce appear on a set of official t-shirts that were released for the Triforce-themed Splatfest.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Lada |first=Jenni |date=2023-04-14 |title=The Legend of Zelda Splatoon 3 Splatfest and Shirts Revealed |url=https://www.siliconera.com/the-legend-of-zelda-splatoon-3-splatfest-and-shirts-revealed/ |access-date=2023-09-02 |website=Siliconera |language=en-US |archive-date=2023-08-30 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230830171129/https://www.siliconera.com/the-legend-of-zelda-splatoon-3-splatfest-and-shirts-revealed/ |url-status=live}}</ref>
== Reception ==
The Triforce has become a recognisable icon of ''The Legend of Zelda'' series. It has been carved into headstones and used as a family crest.<ref>{{Cite web |last=McFerran |first=Damien |date=2013-05-06 |title=Weirdness: Legend of Zelda's Triforce Gets Carved Into A Japanese Tombstone |url=https://www.nintendolife.com/news/2013/05/weirdness_legend_of_zeldas_triforce_gets_carved_into_a_japanese_tombstone |access-date=2023-08-21 |website=Nintendo Life |language=en-GB |archive-date=2023-08-21 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230821113421/https://www.nintendolife.com/news/2013/05/weirdness_legend_of_zeldas_triforce_gets_carved_into_a_japanese_tombstone |url-status=live}}</ref> Brian Ashcraft of ''[[Kotaku]]'' commented that, although the inspiration for the Triforce is unknown, the symbol is found on the grave of Japanese video game designer [[Gunpei Yokoi]], creator of the [[Game Boy]], as his family crest or "kamon" (家紋). Florent Gorges, author of ''The History of Nintendo'', opined that the symbol is so ubiquitous in Japan that Yokoi's protégé, [[Shigeru Miyamoto]], could not have ignored it and had reused the design for the ''Zelda'' series. Ashcraft also remarked that the Triforce had such an impact on the younger Japanese generation, that the crest is now widely recognised, not as the ''mitsuuroko'' symbol, but as the icon of ''The Legend of Zelda'' series.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Ashcraft |first=Brian |date=2015-05-13 |title=Why the Triforce Is On The Grave of the Game Boy's Creator |url=https://kotaku.com/why-the-triforce-is-on-the-grave-of-the-game-boys-creat-1704147285 |access-date=2023-08-21 |website=Kotaku |language=en |archive-date=2023-09-08 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230908191749/https://kotaku.com/why-the-triforce-is-on-the-grave-of-the-game-boys-creat-1704147285 |url-status=live}}</ref> In 1999, the Triforce in ''Ocarina of Time'' became the centre of a hoax, where a user account successfully convinced the ''Zelda'' fandom that the Triforce could be acquired, by posting a series of fake hints that were eventually debunked. ''Kotaku'' described it as "one of the greatest hoaxes in video game history".<ref>{{Cite web |last=Alexandra |first=Heather |date=2018-09-17 |title=That Time A Player Tricked Everyone Into Thinking You Could Get The Triforce In Ocarina of Time |url=https://kotaku.com/that-time-a-player-tricked-everyone-into-thinking-you-c-1789847177 |access-date=2023-08-21 |website=Kotaku |language=en |archive-date=2023-08-21 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230821112001/https://kotaku.com/that-time-a-player-tricked-everyone-into-thinking-you-c-1789847177 |url-status=live}}</ref> In 2016, Kate Gray of ''[[TechRadar]]'' noted that players persisted in their search for the Triforce in ''Ocarina of Time'', using various methods of play in the hope of recovering it.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Gray |first=Kate |date=2016-10-01 |title=Gaming and the lost art of keeping a secret |url=https://www.techradar.com/news/gaming/gaming-and-the-lost-art-of-keeping-a-secret-1329677 |access-date=2023-09-02 |website=TechRadar |language=en |archive-date=2023-09-02 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230902102617/https://www.techradar.com/news/gaming/gaming-and-the-lost-art-of-keeping-a-secret-1329677 |url-status=live}}</ref>
Stephen Totilo, writing for ''Kotaku'', highlighted that in 2016 ''Zelda'' series producer [[Eiji Aonuma]] used the Triforce to reinforce the fixed gender roles of the three main characters in the series. Aonuma stated that the concept of creating a female version of Link, "would mess with the balance of the Triforce" and had been rejected by Nintendo for that reason.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Totilo |first=Stephen |date=2016-06-14 |title=Zelda Producer Explains Why, Despite Speculation, The New Link Is A Guy |url=https://kotaku.com/zelda-producer-explains-why-despite-speculation-the-n-1781973528 |access-date=2023-09-02 |website=Kotaku |language=en |archive-date=2023-09-02 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230902073946/https://kotaku.com/zelda-producer-explains-why-despite-speculation-the-n-1781973528 |url-status=live}}</ref> Jacob Kastrenakes of ''[[The Verge]]'' strongly disagreed by commenting that, although the three characters possess and embody the three virtues of the Triforce, the pieces could "theoretically be held by others in Hyrule" and that none of the Triforce pieces relate to gender.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Kastrenakes |first=Jacob |date=2016-06-15 |title=Nintendo offers really stupid reasons why you can't play as a woman in The Legend of Zelda |url=https://www.theverge.com/2016/6/14/11939552/nintendo-has-dumb-reasons-for-not-making-a-link-a-woman |access-date=2023-09-02 |website=The Verge |language=en-US |archive-date=2023-06-02 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230602172322/https://www.theverge.com/2016/6/14/11939552/nintendo-has-dumb-reasons-for-not-making-a-link-a-woman |url-status=live}}</ref>
The Triforce has been the subject of interpretation with regards to its significance within the ''Zelda'' series. Luke Cuddy considered that the Triforce can be interpreted as a lesson in morality that can be applied in the real world, as each of the three Triforce pieces is equal and could be used by the three main characters for good or evil, depending on how they choose to act.<ref>{{Cite book|last=Cuddy|first=Luke|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=_UefdMONDLIC&dq=triforce&pg=PT203|title=The Legend of Zelda and Philosophy: I Link Therefore I Am|date=2008-11-01|publisher=Open Court|isbn=978-0-8126-9691-2|language=en|access-date=2021-11-19|archive-date=2023-09-14|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230914215545/https://books.google.com/books?id=_UefdMONDLIC&dq=triforce&pg=PT203|url-status=live}}</ref> Anthony Bean opined that the Triforce is a symbol of the [[self]] in [[Jungian]] psychology, because it "serves as a connection between Hyrule (the conscious, mortal realm) and the goddesses (the unconscious, divine realm) just as the self serves as a meeting point for the ego and the unconscious".<ref>{{Cite book|last=Bean|first=Anthony|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=JRRbDwAAQBAJ&dq=triforce&pg=PT82|title=The Psychology of Zelda: Linking Our World to the Legend of Zelda Series|date=2019-02-19|publisher=BenBella Books|isbn=978-1-946885-73-9|language=en|access-date=2021-11-19|archive-date=2023-09-14|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230914215549/https://books.google.com/books?id=JRRbDwAAQBAJ&dq=triforce&pg=PT82|url-status=live}}</ref> ''[[Edge (magazine)|Edge]]'' staff commented that the Triforce is the ''[[deus ex machina]]'' of ''The Legend of Zelda'' series, stating that, of all the world-saving devices in gaming, it is "the most visually iconic and symbolically potent one" and noted its [[Christianity|Christian]] similarities: "salvation through a [[trinity]] that is also one".<ref name=":7">{{Cite web |last= |first= |date=2015-08-04 |title=How the Triforce became gaming's most famous object |url=https://www.gamesradar.com/uk/how-triforce-became-gamings-most-famous-object/ |access-date=2021-09-18 |website=GamesRadar+ |language=en |archive-date=2021-09-18 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210918162909/https://www.gamesradar.com/uk/how-triforce-became-gamings-most-famous-object/ |url-status=live}}</ref>
Luke Plunkett of ''Kotaku'' opined that the Triforce is "one of the most iconic designs in the history of video games" and "the object that lies at the heart of ''The Legend of Zelda''".<ref name=":1" /> ''[[Eurogamer]]'' staff commented that the Triforce symbolises "Zelda's perpetually cycling legend" and is the blueprint for every game in the series, with Link representing "agency, curiosity, the eternal innocence", Ganon representing "selfishness, megalomania, destruction" and Zelda representing "insight and direction".<ref>{{Cite news |date=2023-05-10 |title=What Zelda means to us |language=en |work=Eurogamer.net |url=https://www.eurogamer.net/what-zelda-means-to-us |access-date=2023-09-08 |archive-date=2023-06-18 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230618075354/https://www.eurogamer.net/what-zelda-means-to-us |url-status=live}}</ref> Nicole Carpenter for ''[[Polygon (website)|Polygon]]'' commented that the Triforce has become a ubiquitous symbol that is widely recognised amongst gamers. She highlighted that it creates a sense of community for many isolated gamers and also provides personal significance to those who find comfort and meaning in its symbolism.<ref name=":9" />
== See also ==
* [[Sierpiński triangle]]
==References==
{{reflist}}
{{The Legend of Zelda}}
[[Category:Fictional elements introduced in 1986]]
[[Category:Magic items]]
[[Category:The Legend of Zelda]]
[[Category:Video game objects]]
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