Moneybags
The greedy bear who charges Spyro for every service, hoarding his fortune while the hero pays the price.
Moneybags is a wealthy, miserly bear who serves as one of Spyro's most frequent merchants and informants throughout the Dragon Realms. Despite his initial appearance as a greedy obstacle hoarding gold, he remains a self-serving businessman who charges Spyro for every service, including unlocking areas and providing keys. His vast fortune is his own, and he only parts with it when paid handsomely.
- Species
- Bear
- Role
- Merchant / Informant
- Affiliation
- Self-employed
- Location
- Moneybags' Shop (various worlds)
- Status
- Alive
Lore & Background
Throughout the series, Moneybags remains a consistent merchant, always demanding payment before offering any aid. He appears at critical junctures where Spyro needs to unlock new areas or gain entry to secret chambers, but only after Spyro pays his fees. While he frequently complains about the cost of doing business with a hero, his actions consistently demonstrate that profit is his only motive, and he never funds rescue missions—Spyro pays him.
In Their Own Story
The golden light of the shop reflected off Moneybags' scales as he counted his coins, the rhythmic clinking echoing in the small chamber. 'Gold for gold,' he muttered, eyeing the purple dragon at his counter with suspicion. Spyro sighed, knowing exactly what was coming next. The ancient keys to the hidden caverns were locked behind a door that only Moneybags could open. With a grumble and a dramatic sigh, the wealthy merchant finally slid a heavy key across the counter, muttering about inflation, yet his eyes betrayed a flicker of pride in aiding the hero's cause.
Reader's Guide
Moneybags is a recurring character who acts as the primary financier for Spyro's adventures. Initially portrayed as a greedy antagonist who blocks progress by demanding gold, he quickly becomes a trusted ally. His role shifts from obstacle to enabler, providing keys, hints, and access to hidden areas that are otherwise unreachable.
He possesses no combat abilities or magical powers; his strength lies in his immense wealth and knowledge of the realms' secrets. Moneybags knows where every hidden treasure is buried and how to navigate the complex economies of the Dragon Realms. His defining moments occur whenever he unlocks a new world for Spyro, often after a humorous exchange about the high cost of heroism.
Despite his miserly nature, Moneybags demonstrates a strong moral compass when it comes to saving the dragons. He is willing to spend his entire fortune if it means defeating villains like Gnasty Gnorc or Ripto. His arc is one of reluctant generosity, showing that even the greediest dragon can find value in friendship and duty.
Did You Know?
- Moneybags often appears in multiple worlds within a single game, acting as a hub for players to unlock new areas—for a fee.
- He is one of the few characters who was not captured by Gnasty Gnorc or Ripto, though the reasons are never explained in canon.
- In several games, Moneybags serves as a tutorial character, teaching players about the importance of collecting gold for progression—by taking it from them.
- His shop is often decorated with piles of coins and treasure chests, visually reinforcing his obsession with wealth.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Moneybags?
Moneybags is a wealthy, miserly dragon who operates as a merchant and key informant for Spyro across the Dragon Realms. Although he initially appears greedy while hoarding gold in his shop, he ultimately becomes one of the young purple dragon's most trusted allies.
What role does Moneybags play in the games?
He serves primarily as a funding source who uses his vast fortune to purchase keys and unlock hidden areas for the hero. His financial support is essential for Spyro to progress through levels and rescue the kidnapped dragons from their captors.
Why is Moneybags important to Spyro's quest?
Without his resources, many of the young dragon's missions would be impossible due to locked gates and inaccessible regions. He provides the critical capital needed to advance the plot and aid the Dragon Elders in their fight against evil.
What is Moneybags' personality like?
He is characterized by an extreme obsession with wealth, often acting as a stingy obstacle who demands payment for even simple services. Despite this greedy exterior, he proves himself generous when it comes to supporting the rescue of his fellow dragons.
How does Moneybags's story end?
Moneybags survives all major conflicts and remains alive throughout the series, continuing to operate his shop in various worlds. He maintains his position as a loyal supporter who funds future adventures alongside Spyro and the Dragon Elders.
Elsewhere in the Spyro universe
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