The realm of spreadsheet software offers more than just a tool for creating tables and employing various formulas. In the case of Excel, it’s not just a software application; it’s a platform where users compete to showcase their proficiency each year.
A striking illustration of the versatility of spreadsheet applications can be found in the game “Sink the Fleet.” This classic game, designed by Carlos Ortega, is accessible via Google Sheets and enables users to relish this timeless pastime with friends, all without the need to install any additional software.
How to play Sink the Fleet
To embark on your seafaring adventure, follow these steps:
- Access the spreadsheet for the game through this link.
- Sign in to your Google account to save a copy of the file to your account.
- After creating a copy, you can customize the content, including positioning your fleet and configuring the sheet for gameplay with others.
Should you require any guidance on how to use the spreadsheet, refer to the instructions provided on the main tab.
- Once you’ve saved a copy of the spreadsheet to your account, your gaming partner must do the same.
- Copy your opponent’s spreadsheet URL and paste it into the cell labeled “Rival URL.” Likewise, your gaming partner should input the URL of your copy of the spreadsheet.
- To enable joint gameplay, hover your cursor over the URL and a “Request access” message will appear. Click on this message to share sheet data. Both accounts will receive an email message with a link to confirm access.
Time to play
“Sink the Fleet” is a classic game of deduction where your mission is to locate your opponent’s fleet within a designated grid. To do this, you must select cells on the grid below your opponent’s URL.
Each player has one attempt per turn, and if a hit is scored, another attack can be launched until a miss occurs. On the right side, after completing your turn, you must click on “Your Turn” to allow your opponent to respond.
You don’t need to rely on pen and paper to track your opponent’s remaining ships. The information is conveniently displayed just below the grid showcasing your fleet. As you eliminate enemy ships, X marks will appear on each one in your opponent’s fleet, making it easy to track their status.