Dupli

Dupli is a fictional character from the *Lego Bionicle* franchise, a media universe centered around ancient, living statues known as Matoran. Created by The Lego Group and developed by Jakko Hoogstraten, Dupli first appeared in the 2001 film *The Legend of Mata Nui* and later became a recurring character in the series' books, comics, and video games.

Dupli is a small, humanoid robot designed to serve as a companion and assistant to the Matoran, a race of humanoid beings. Unlike other Matoran, Dupli lacks a physical body and instead exists as a digital consciousness housed within a portable, spherical device. This device allows Dupli to interact with the physical world, perform tasks, and communicate through a built-in screen and speakers. Dupli’s primary function is to provide information, translate languages, and assist in various activities, though it also develops a sense of personality and camaraderie with its users.

The character’s name is derived from the word "duplicate," reflecting its role as a programmable entity capable of mimicking or assisting its owner. Dupli’s design features a smooth, metallic exterior with a central screen displaying its face—a stylized, cartoonish expression that conveys emotions. Its voice is synthetic but expressive, often adopting a cheerful or helpful tone.

Dupli appears in multiple *Bionicle* stories, including *The Mask of Light* and *The Great Spirit*, where it aids characters like Vakama (later known as Makuta) and other Matoran in navigating the challenges of their world. While its role is largely utilitarian, Dupli’s presence adds a layer of modernity and adaptability to the otherwise ancient and mystical setting of *Bionicle*.

Beyond its fictional origins, Dupli has inspired real-world Lego sets, including the *Lego Bionicle: Dupli* minifigure released in 2001, which allowed fans to create their own programmable companion. The character remains a beloved element of the franchise, symbolizing the blend of technology and tradition within *Bionicle*’s narrative.