Elden Ring Reborn in Excel: Fan's Spreadsheet Creation Stuns

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 monumental undertaking consumed approximately 40 hours – 20 hours dedicated to coding and another 20 to rigorous testing and debugging. The creator proudly proclaimed the result well worth the effort.

This impressive Excel game boasts:

• A sprawling 90,000-cell map;
• Over 60 weapons;
• More than 50 enemies;
• Character and weapon upgrade systems;
• Three distinct character classes (tank, mage, assassin) with unique playstyles;
• 25+ armor sets;
• Six NPCs with accompanying quests;
• Four different game endings.

While entirely free to play, controlling the game requires keyboard shortcuts: CTRL + WASD for movement and CTRL + E for interactions. Reddit moderators have verified the file's safety, but users are advised to exercise caution due to the extensive use of macros.

Interestingly, the game's Erd Tree has sparked a fascinating discussion. Some players have likened it to a Christmas tree, while user Independent-Design17 suggests the Australian Christmas tree, Nuytsia floribunda, may have served as inspiration. The user points to the striking resemblance between the in-game Small Erd Trees and the Nuytsia, noting further parallels. In Elden Ring, catacombs are situated at the Erd Tree's roots, the final resting place for souls. Similarly, Aboriginal Australian culture considers Nuytsia a "spirit tree," associating its vibrant colors with the sunset, the perceived journey of spirits, and its flowering branches with the souls of the departed.