Skich, the mobile game discovery app often compared to Tinder, has officially entered the alternative app store market. On Thursday, the company announced the launch of Skich Store, a brand-new gaming marketplace for iOS users in the European Union—setting the stage for competition with platforms like Aptoide and Epic Games Store.
Skich Store: A Game-Changer for iOS?
Skich Store will start adding games at the end of March, following the Game Developers Conference (GDC). The move is fueled by the EU’s Digital Markets Act (DMA), which forces Apple to allow third-party app stores on iOS, giving developers and users more choice and fairer competition.
Unlike traditional app stores, Skich Store integrates social features, making game discovery more interactive. Users can:
✅ Swipe to “match” with games they like
✅ Create game playlists and track recommendations
✅ See what friends are playing in the Activity section
✅ Explore developer profiles for new releases
Better Revenue Model for Developers
One major advantage? Lower commission fees. Skich Store takes a 15% cut on purchases and in-app transactions—half of Apple’s 30% fee—making it a more developer-friendly option.
While Apple’s App Store dominates with millions of apps, Skich Store aims to carve out its niche by focusing exclusively on gaming and leveraging its 100,000+ monthly organic visitors.
What’s Next?
🚀 Skich Store will replace the existing Skich app soon
📱 An Android version is launching in May
With the DMA reshaping the mobile ecosystem, Skich Store could be the start of a major shift in the iOS app market. Will it succeed? Time will tell, but it’s clear that Apple’s App Store finally has competition.
A Unique Approach to Game Discovery
Unlike traditional marketplaces, Skich Store is designed to be highly interactive and social. It builds upon Skich’s existing Tinder-like game discovery system, where users can swipe left or right to find games they love.
But Skich Store goes beyond just discovery—it transforms how users engage with games and the gaming community. Some standout features include:
🎮 Personalized Recommendations: AI-driven suggestions based on player interests
👥 Social Integration: See what friends are playing and share recommendations
🔄 Developer Profiles: Explore a game studio’s entire library and future projects
📊 Trending & Viral Games Section: Highlights emerging hits before they explode in popularity
A Fairer Deal for Game Developers
The App Store’s 30% commission fee has long been a point of contention for developers. Skich Store, however, offers a 15% commission, making it a more attractive platform for studios looking to maximize their revenue.
The ability to create curated game playlists and develop a direct relationship with players could be a game-changer for indie developers, allowing them to market their titles more effectively without being buried under Apple’s massive app catalog.
Challenges & The Road Ahead
🚧 User Adoption – Can Skich convince iOS gamers to embrace a new marketplace?
🚧 Apple’s Policies – While the DMA forces Apple to allow third-party stores, restrictions and compliance hurdles could still emerge.
🚧 Expanding Content Library – To compete with established platforms, Skich must attract major game publishers alongside indie developers.
A Growing Ecosystem: Android Expansion Coming Soon
Skich is not stopping with iOS. The company has announced that an Android version of Skich Store will roll out in May, signaling its long-term vision to become a major player in the mobile gaming ecosystem.
As alternative app stores gain momentum, Skich Store represents a major shift in the mobile gaming industry—one that prioritizes user engagement, fairer revenue models, and a fresh approach to discovery.
Could Skich Store be the Steam of mobile gaming? The journey is just beginning, but one thing is clear: Apple’s walled garden is starting to crack.
