EVE Online, a popular multiplayer online game, has taken a significant step forward with the release of a Microsoft Excel add-in. This innovative collaboration between CCP Games, the developer of EVE Online, and Microsoft aims to provide players with a competitive edge by leveraging the power of data. The add-in, which was announced last year at EVE Fanfest and is now available for download, seeks to level the playing field and make the game more accessible to new players.
Often referred to as a “spreadsheet simulator” due to the strategic advantages that players can gain by tracking in-game data, EVE Online has garnered a dedicated following over the years. The game’s intricate mechanics and player-driven economy have created a complex web of alliances, wars, and politics. By embracing data analytics through the Excel add-in, players can gain valuable insights that can make all the difference between victory and defeat.
CCP Games collaborated closely with Microsoft’s Excel team to develop this free extension. The primary goal was to empower players with easy access to in-game data, which facilitates informed decision-making. By eliminating the need for coding knowledge or reliance on third-party tools, CCP Games aims to bring added fairness and accessibility to everyone. The partnership with Microsoft not only helps promote both companies’ products but also sets a precedent as EVE Online becomes the first and only video game to offer official Excel-based data integration.
The add-in allows players to import various in-game data, including asset locations, item values, market orders, item market prices, wallet transactions, skills, and corporation finances (if they have the necessary roles). Once the data is imported, players can generate custom reports and visualization tools such as graphs and charts, enabling them to analyze their performance and make data-driven decisions.
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Catherine Pidgeon, Microsoft’s Head of Product for Excel, expressed excitement about the collaboration, emphasizing CCP Games’ extensive experience in the massively multiplayer online (MMO) space. Pidgeon believes that this partnership will streamline data management for EVE Online players and enhance their in-game experience. With the Excel add-in, players of all skill levels can now seamlessly export and manage data without relying on third-party tools, taking their gameplay to new heights.
To access the Excel add-in, players can select the “Insert” tab in Excel (desktop or web), click on the “Get Add-ins” button, and search for “EVE Online.” Alternatively, they can find the add-in in the Microsoft Store. CCP Games has also provided a sample workbook to help users get started with the tool, which can be found on their SharePoint site.
The introduction of this Excel add-in marks a significant development for EVE Online and its community. By leveraging the power of data analysis, players can gain a competitive edge and optimize their gameplay strategies. This collaboration between CCP Games and Microsoft showcases the potential for partnerships between gaming companies and technology giants to enhance the gaming experience and provide innovative tools for players. As the first game to offer official Excel integration, EVE Online is setting a precedent for the future of data analytics in gaming.
