How a Gemini-powered Google Sheets trick made task tracking feel like an RPG
The writer revisited habit tracking by recreating Habitica's RPG concept in Google Sheets. Using Gemini's Build feature, they generated a gamified tracker with stats, XP, and levels from a simple prompt. The result made everyday tasks like push-ups and reading more motivating, at least initially.
The writer’s earlier attempt at gamified habits came through Habitica, recommended by a cousin. It worked well briefly, but the appeal faded and maintaining entries felt burdensome, so he stopped using habit apps. Later, he recreated that RPG-style approach in Google Sheets after discovering a little-used feature.
Using Gemini’s Build and Canvas, he generated a tracker from a prompt. Build produced formulas and checkbox cells; Canvas turned it into a dark, game-like dashboard. The setup required a paid AI Pro or Ultra plan and desktop Sheets. It tracked 12 habits across six categories, assigned XP values, and calculated levels, progress, and totals.
Gemini-powered spreadsheet creation could make personalized gamified tools more accessible to people without coding skills, potentially helping students, professionals, and hobbyists sustain habits through XP and leveling. Its reliance on paid AI plans and desktop Sheets may limit who can try it, though. As the writer’s own experience suggests, initial motivation may fade once novelty wears off, so long-term impact on productivity and habit formation remains uncertain.