Press Kit
About kotiwo
kotiwo is a web-based language learning platform that combines full-featured gaming with vocabulary acquisition. Players can enjoy games across different genres while learning new words. The platform uses its own learning algorithm that breaks patterns to improve retention.
With kotiwo, players draw their practice motivation from gaming itself—reviewing hundreds of words while pursuing that “just one more turn” feeling.
Key Features
- Diverse Gaming Portfolio: RPG, management, racing, and creative writing games
- Personal Vocabulary Integration: Add or import custom word lists in any language
- Learning Algorithm: A unique system that breaks patterns to help with retention
- Vocabulary Content: 2,000+ curated words and specialised topic packs
- Cross-Platform Access: Works on any device with a web browser, such as desktop computers, laptops, tablets, and mobile devices; available as an installable app through PWA (Progressive Web Apps) technology
- Suitable for All Ages: From children to adults, all games are family-friendly and offer adjustable difficulty levels
Variety that Drives Learning
kotiwo keeps language learning interesting through different games. Players can switch between activities, and when they finish the collection, earlier games feel fresh again, creating a natural learning loop.
Additionally, unlike a number of other language-learning games that focus only on basic nouns like “cat” or “house,” kotiwo teaches all parts of speech—verbs, adjectives, and adverbs, too.
Games
Main Collection
- Let There Be Light: An RPG where players control a lamp restoring light to a dark world
- Motorsport Manager: Build and lead racing teams across various motorsports; supports modding for different racing types, including rally, formula racing, motorbike racing, and more
- Sports Team Manager: Guide your team across various sports (football, basketball, hockey)
- Plant Writer: Combine creative writing with plant genetics to create unique flora
- Old School Racing: An ’80s-style arcade game where correct translations refuel your vehicle
- Scripts: Learn new alphabets by decoding alien messages
- Classic Mini-Games: Word-focused quizzes and typing games
Additional Content
- Daily Crossword: Daily vocabulary puzzles with adjustable difficulty
- Grammar Overview: Quick reference guide for recognising language patterns
For a quick overview of gameplay mechanics and features, gameplay footage and trailers are available here.
Language Support
- Current Languages: English, German, Spanish, Swedish, Japanese, Hebrew
- Custom Languages: Support for any language through personal vocabulary lists
Vocabulary
General Progress Packs
- Starter Pack
- Beginner
- Intermediate
- Advanced
Specialised Topics
- Business Communication
- Medical Terminology
- Driving Abroad
- Emotions & Expression
kotiwo Method
- Focuses exclusively on vocabulary as the foundation of language learning
- Breaks patterns by mixing translation directions
- Uses time pressure to strengthen memory retention
- Lightning round review: hundreds of words in a short time
- Encourages repeated practice and self-motivation through a variety of games
- Platform: Web-based, mobile-optimised
- Installation: Accessible via web browsers and installable as apps through PWA technology
- Access: Free registration at https://kotiwo.com
- Premium Features: Access to all games, all language packs, and the personal vocabulary lists feature
Logo Meaning
The kotiwo logo combines a “+” for vocabulary acquisition and two ascending arrows for “level up” progress. These elements form a sword, representing a player’s quest in language learning.
Background
kotiwo began as a personal passion project by a software developer who learned to code before mastering writing. The platform is the result of years of after-hours dedication, born from a deep love for gaming, programming, and language learning.
Assets
Hotari is kotiwo’s mascot, a firefly that symbolises the light of knowledge. The name combines the Japanese word “ホタル” (hotaru/firefly) with the German diminutive suffix “-i.”
Brand Guidelines
General Guidelines
- Name always appears in lowercase: kotiwo
- Typography is based on Noto and Noto Sans fonts, chosen for their comprehensive support of global writing systems
Colour Palette
Let There Be Light
kotiwo Motorsport Manager
kotiwo Sports Team Manager
Plant Writer
Old School Racing
Classic Mini-Games