I've had a lot of games land on my desk...

[Garamonde]

Well, you don't need the shield all of the time anyway, I think they are trying to get players to be more active and not just sit there half the time like Jalo said. In Zelda games in general though I've really not used my shield a lot as far as I can remember... I didn't see a whole lot of point. Then again my battle technique preference is quick & dodgy rather than defensive so of course it won't be the same for those who actually do use it.

I have also always despised having a full wallet of Rupees and nothing to spend them on... then finding treasure chests with Rupees that go to waste.