Overview
Zootastic is an AI-powered animal quiz and educational entertainment app. The platform combines engaging gameplay with real animal facts, using AI to generate personalized learning experiences and dynamic quiz content.
Built to make learning about animals fun for all ages — from kids discovering wildlife to adults who think they know everything.
My Role
As lead software engineer and project manager, I created Zootastic solo:
- Product Design — Designed gamified learning mechanics
- Mobile Development — Built React Native app for iOS and Android
- AI Integration — Implemented OpenAI API for dynamic content
- Game Mechanics — Created progression and achievement systems
- Content Pipeline — Built system for curating and validating animal facts
Built entirely by me.
Architecture
Entertainment-focused architecture with AI at its core:
Mobile App
React Native with engaging animations. Firebase for auth and real-time features. Offline quiz capability.
AI Content Engine
OpenAI API for quiz generation. Fact-checking pipeline for accuracy. Difficulty calibration based on user performance.
Game Systems
XP and level progression. Achievement badges and streaks. Leaderboards and challenges.
Content Management
Animal database with verified facts. Image library with proper licensing. Category and difficulty tagging.
Hard Problems
1. AI Accuracy
AI can hallucinate facts. Built verification layer with trusted sources and user reporting for errors.
2. Age-Appropriate Content
Content needs to work for kids and adults. Created difficulty tiers with filtered content for younger users.
3. Engagement Loops
Educational apps often bore users. Designed compelling game mechanics that make learning feel like play.
4. Content Freshness
Static quizzes get stale. Used AI to generate novel questions from fact database for endless variety.
What I'd Improve Today
- Add AR features to see animals in real environment
- Implement voice interactions for hands-free play
- Create multiplayer quiz battles
- Add educational partnerships for classroom use
- Build conservation awareness features with real-world impact
- Implement accessibility features for visually impaired users