Wow, I find it incredible that you've been studying a language for so many years without taking classes. It takes almost infinite patience to persevere. What's more, Japanese has the added difficulty of using a different and multiplied alphabet, so in reality each new word is several... Most people who practise other languages do so with books or films. The closest thing to a video game that I can think of is Duolingo. 😂 I tried using it to improve my English, but I'm terrible at keeping up with it and I get bored with the repetitions. I encourage you to keep going with this great goal, you've already reached an important milestone. And as you say, once you progress a little further, the pace will be faster. Go for it!
I have picked this post on behalf of the @OurPick project! Check out our Reading Suggestions posts!
Please consider voting for our Liotes HIVE Witness. Thank you!