mazwi

mazwi is a Shona flashcard game built for learners and the Zimbabwean diaspora who want a level-based way to learn chiShona vocabulary. The mazwi beta teaches 108 essential words organized into six chapters that function like progressive levels, covering everyday objects, common verbs and basic greetings. Each card includes a pronunciation guide, an English translation and a full Shona sentence so players absorb words in context rather than as isolated terms. The gameplay is simple and focused: tap a card to reveal its meaning, rate how well you remembered it, and let the FSRS spaced-repetition mechanic schedule your next review. It works offline and is free during beta.

Key Features

108 essential words arranged across six chapters that feel like progressive levels.

Pronunciation guidance to help with spoken chiShona.

English translations plus a full Shona sentence so vocabulary is learned in context.

FSRS-powered spaced repetition schedules reviews at the optimal time.

Simple card mechanics: tap to reveal, then rate your recall to influence scheduling.

No account required and fully functional offline during the beta period.

Advantages

mazwi's chapter structure makes steady progress feel more like gameplay than rote study.

The combination of pronunciation, translation and example sentences supports contextual learning.

FSRS reduces wasted study time by prioritizing the cards you need to review most.

Offline access and no account setup lower the barrier for casual or on-the-go learners.

Disadvantages

The beta release contains only 108 words, so advanced learners will find the scope limited.

As a beta build, some features and polish may still be in development and could change. The beta release of mazwi includes the essentials for beginners and will expand in future updates.