[vincent-toups]

I really liked the initial version of Duo Lingo but I've found it increasingly less fun to use as all the engagement hacking has crept into the site.

I expect that will accelerate and things will start falling behind a pay wall soon.

I don't mind pay walls even remotely but I hate the bait and switch which is the mainstay of startup products. I guess I understand that it is often the only way to reach enough customers to have a chance at all, but it still sucks.

Also, I personally hate gamification, even when it is operating over something I want to do. It feels condescending and manipulative. I'm an adult. I can learn things without earning little virtual jewels and shit.