A Reddit user, brightyh360, shared an incredible project on the r/excel subreddit: a top-down version of Elden Ring recreated entirely in Microsoft Excel. This feat of programming took approximately 40 hours – 20 hours for coding and another 20 for testing and debugging. The creator stated the result was well worth the effort.
This impressive spreadsheet game boasts:
- A 90,000-cell map
- 60+ weapons
- 50+ enemies
- Character and weapon upgrade systems
- Three character classes (tank, mage, assassin) with distinct playstyles
- 25+ armor sets
- Six NPCs with quests
- Four different endings
While completely free to play, the game utilizes keyboard shortcuts for control: CTRL + WASD for movement and CTRL + E for interaction. While Reddit moderators have verified the file's safety, users are advised to exercise caution due to the extensive use of macros.
Interestingly, some Elden Ring fans have noted the resemblance of the game's Erdtree to a Christmas tree, prompting speculation about its inspiration. User Independent-Design17 suggested the Australian Christmas tree, Nuytsia floribunda, as a possible model, pointing out striking similarities between the in-game Small Erdtrees and this species. Further parallels exist in the cultural significance of Nuytsia as a "spirit tree" in Australian Aboriginal traditions, mirroring the game's depiction of catacombs at the Erdtree's roots, where souls are guided. The vibrant colors of Nuytsia, associated with the sunset and the journey of spirits, further strengthen this connection.
