A Reddit user, brightyh360, recently shared an incredible project on the r/excel subreddit: a top-down version of Elden Ring, painstakingly recreated in Microsoft Excel. This feat of programming prowess took approximately 40 hours – 20 hours dedicated to coding and another 20 to rigorous testing and debugging. The creator stated the result was well worth the extensive effort.
This impressive Excel recreation boasts:
- A sprawling 90,000-cell map.
- Over 60 unique weapons.
- More than 50 different enemy types.
- A fully functional character and weapon upgrade system.
- Three distinct character classes (tank, mage, assassin), each with unique playstyles.
- 25+ armor sets to customize your character.
- Six non-player characters (NPCs) with engaging quests.
- Four distinct game endings to discover.
While completely free to play, the game utilizes keyboard shortcuts for control: CTRL + WASD for movement and CTRL + E for interaction. Reddit moderators have verified the file's safety, however, users are advised to exercise caution due to the extensive use of macros.
Interestingly, the game's Erdtree has sparked comparisons to a Christmas tree, particularly on Christmas Eve. Reddit user Independent-Design17 suggests the Australian Christmas tree, Nuytsia floribunda, may have served as inspiration. They highlight the striking visual similarities between the in-game Small Erdtrees and the Nuytsia, noting deeper parallels as well. In Elden Ring, catacombs located at the Erdtree's base represent the resting place of souls. Similarly, Australian Aboriginal culture considers Nuytsia a "spirit tree," associating its vibrant colors with the sunset – the perceived pathway of spirits – and each flowering branch with the soul of a departed individual.
