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Ask HN: Is building a calm, non-gamified learning app a mistake?

86 points hussein-khalil | 1 comments | 15 Dec 25 15:48 UTC | HN request time: 0.321s | source

I’ve been working on a small language learning app as a solo developer.

I intentionally avoided gamification, streaks, subscriptions, and engagement tricks. The goal was calm learning — fewer distractions, more focus.

I’m starting to wonder if this approach is fundamentally at odds with today’s market.

For those who’ve built or used learning tools: – Does “calm” resonate, or is it too niche? – What trade-offs have you seen when avoiding gamification?

Not here to promote — genuinely looking for perspective.

1. StrataCreator ◴[17 Dec 25 12:24 UTC] No.46301178[source]▶
That's a tough one! I've considered creating a non-gamified learning app based on spaced repetition and active recall - think Anki flash cards but on steroids :D

The reason why I haven't done it yet is because I never have the time, but if you do then I for one would love an app like that.

There's a lot of talk about today's market, but I think doing something and sticking at it will attract the right attention