For me Duolingo's gamification is better than nothing but it's really not that fun. It wasn't a motivating factor to keep learning. Spaced repletion algorithm

For me Duolingo's gamification is better than nothing but it's really not that fun. It wasn't a motivating factor to keep learning. Spaced repletion algorithms can be really helpful, but they can also be a hindrance. Duolingo treats the user like they don't know better than the algorithm. The language learner needs to be the one in the driver's seat with the algorithms and course material being there to support the learner. Gamification is great, but it should only be there to help the user stay motivated meeting their goals. Like you mentioned, if you've already mastered something having it presented in your study session is actively working against meeting your goals because you're spending time studying something you don't need to. I don't see studying everyday as an end-goal, though studying every day can be helpful for retention. You should feel rewarded but not punished when you "loose your streak".