Rize

Today I worked on adding the AI features to the Rize quest system. I connected Google Gemini to the backend so that photo proofs can be checked before a quest is accepted. If the uploaded image matches the quest, the user receives XP and the related stat is increased. If the image does not match, the quest is rejected and no XP is awarded.
I also added AI-generated narration after a quest is completed. Instead of using fixed messages, Gemini now creates a short encouraging sentence based on the completed quest. This message is saved with the completion and shown to the user after finishing a quest.
On the frontend, I built a new quest completion modal. Users can now choose whether to submit a photo or a text proof. The modal shows an image preview for photo uploads, validates text submissions, displays any verification errors, and shows the XP earned together with the AI-generated narration after a successful completion.

Today I worked on the core quest system of Rize and connected the frontend with the backend. I created API routes to load quests, load the player’s character stats, and complete quests. When a quest is completed, the backend now gives XP, updates the correct stat, increases the total XP, and recalculates the player’s level automatically.
On the frontend, I built the main dashboard layout and replaced the placeholders with real data from the backend. The quest list now loads all available quests, the stats section shows the current values with progress bars, and I added a basic journal section that will be expanded later. I also connected the quest cards so clicking on one completes the quest and immediately updates the stats without reloading the page.
I spent some time testing everything to make sure the full flow was working correctly. By the end of the day, the main gameplay loop was working: quests can be completed, XP is awarded, stats increase, and the character levels up based on the total XP. This gives me a solid base before adding AI verification and the other features in the next phases.

Today I finalized the idea for my project after exploring a few different concepts. I decided to build Rize, a life RPG that turns real-life activities into quests and rewards personal growth with XP, levels, and character progression. The idea is inspired by my own experiences. I’m an introvert and an only child, so I sometimes struggle to stay motivated, step out of my comfort zone, and maintain good habits. I wanted to build something that would make self-improvement feel more fun and rewarding, not like another boring to-do list.I also finalized the tech stack I’ll be using: React for the frontend, Python (FastAPI) for the backend, SQLite for the database, and Gemini for the AI features. Since I’m still learning and don’t have a lot of experience building projects of this scale, I’ve been using AI occasionally to brainstorm ideas, understand concepts, and get unstuck when I run into problems. I’m treating it as a learning tool while making the design decisions and building the project myself.Most of today’s progress was spent planning instead of coding. I organized the core features, decided how the progression system would work, and created a development roadmap so I have a clear direction before I start implementing everything.