Changes in Duolingo’s Appeal and User Experience

Duolingo, a popular app for language learning, has been a tool for many users to learn various languages. However, in recent years, some users have experienced a decline in its appeal. This issue arises mainly because the app's gamification elements have shifted focus from learning motivation to maintaining streaks and earning XP points.

Users of the paid version, Super Duolingo, feel that features like unlimited hearts reduce the importance of learning. Unlimited hearts lessen the tension in the learning process and limit opportunities to learn from mistakes. Recently, the heart system has been replaced by an energy system, where each lesson costs energy that refills over time.

Some users question whether these changes benefit learning and have decided to revert to the free version, finding that it offers a more focused learning environment despite ads and limited features. The free version encourages users to concentrate on learning by imposing consequences for mistakes.

Ultimately, the paid version of Duolingo encourages a focus on streaks and leagues rather than actual learning achievements. Meanwhile, the free version seems designed to push users towards the paid option. While Duolingo remains a valuable learning tool, it is currently challenging to recommend it to new users.