Looking for apps like Habitica but want something more grounded in real-world achievement? Whether Habitica feels too game-like or you want an app that tracks what you actually do rather than virtual quests, these alternatives offer powerful ways to gamify your self-improvement journey.
Why Look Beyond Habitica?
Habitica pioneered gamified habit tracking, but many users find its fantasy RPG theme childish or lose motivation when the novelty wears off. The best alternatives focus on real-world verification, social accountability, and meaningful progress metrics rather than virtual rewards.
1. PeakLevs — Best for Real-World Momentum
PeakLevs takes a fundamentally different approach. Instead of virtual XP for checking boxes, you earn Levs for verified real-world actions across six categories: fitness, learning, creativity, wellness, productivity, and giving back.
What sets it apart is the momentum engine. Your Levs score never drops, but your momentum rate shows your current intensity. Add photo proof for bonus points. Rise through five tiers from Spark to Legendary. It is not about fantasy — it is about building a visible record of what you have actually done.
- 6 real-world action categories
- Photo verification for authenticity
- Momentum tracking (not just streaks)
- Community leaderboards
- Available on iOS and Android
2. Finch — Best for Mental Wellness
Finch uses a virtual pet mechanic where completing self-care tasks helps your bird grow. Great for anxiety and depression management, though less focused on achievement tracking.
3. Level Up Life — Best for Quest-Based Goals
Similar to Habitica but with a modern interface. Create custom quests tied to real goals. Good for people who like the RPG mechanic but want better design.
4. Streaks — Best for Simplicity
Apple Design Award winner. Track up to 24 habits with a clean, minimal interface. No gamification frills — just pure streak tracking.
5. Forest — Best for Focus Sessions
Plant virtual trees by staying off your phone. Great for productivity and digital detox, though limited to focus tracking.
6. Strava — Best for Fitness Tracking
The gold standard for running and cycling communities. Excellent social features and GPS tracking, but limited to exercise only.
7. Fabulous — Best for Building Routines
Science-based approach to building morning and evening routines. Beautiful design but focused primarily on daily habits rather than broader achievement.
8. Todoist — Best for Task Management
Karma points and productivity tracking add gamification to the best task manager on the market. More suited to work tasks than personal growth.
9. LifeRPG — Best for Stat Tracking
Turn your life into an RPG with customisable stats and skills. More flexible than Habitica but requires more setup.
10. SuperBetter — Best for Resilience Building
Designed by game designer Jane McGonigal, SuperBetter turns personal challenges into quests. Evidence-based approach to building resilience.
Which Alternative Is Right for You?
If you want verified real-world achievement tracking with a social element, PeakLevs is the clear choice. If you prefer virtual pet mechanics, try Finch. For pure habit streaks, Streaks is unbeatable. And if you love the RPG theme but want better design, Level Up Life modernises the formula.
The best self-improvement app is the one you will actually use consistently. Try a few and see which one matches your motivation style.