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 dedicated to coding and another 20 to rigorous testing and debugging. The creator stated the effort was worthwhile, given the impressive final product.
This Excel-based game boasts an astonishing level of detail:
- A sprawling 90,000-cell map.
- Over 60 unique weapons.
- More than 50 different enemy types.
- Comprehensive character and weapon upgrade systems.
- Three distinct character classes (tank, mage, and assassin), each with unique playstyles.
- 25+ armor sets to customize your character.
- Six non-player characters (NPCs) with engaging quests.
- Four varied game endings.
While completely free to play, the game utilizes keyboard shortcuts for control: CTRL + WASD for movement and CTRL + E for interactions. Reddit moderators have verified the file's safety, although users are advised to exercise caution due to the extensive use of macros.
Interestingly, the game's Erdtree sparked a holiday-themed discussion. User Independent-Design17 suggested the Australian Christmas tree, Nuytsia floribunda, may have served as inspiration for the Erdtree's design. They highlighted the striking visual similarities between the in-game Small Erdtrees and the Nuytsia floribunda. Further parallels were drawn between the catacombs at the base of the Erdtree (where souls are guided in Elden Ring) and the Aboriginal Australian cultural significance of Nuytsia as a "spirit tree," its vibrant colors associated with the sunset, the perceived path of spirits, and each flowering branch representing a departed soul.
