With Apple's ecosystem becoming more open, we're seeing a surge of new entrants vying to become the first successful alternative app store on iOS. The latest contender, Skich, enters the fray with a strong focus on gaming, setting itself apart from competitors like Apptoide by emphasizing gaming over general apps.
Skich's unique selling proposition lies in its robust discoverability system, which is built around three key features: a recommendation system, a swipe-based discovery interface, and a social system that allows users to see what games their friends and like-minded players are enjoying. These features may remind seasoned gamers of platforms like Steam, which is not necessarily a disadvantage. The Epic Games Store for iOS, for instance, has been criticized for lacking the social and discovery elements that users appreciate on platforms like Steam and GOG.
Big Fish, Small Pond? While Skich's focus on discoverability is a strong point, the question remains whether it's enough to make a significant impact in the crowded iOS app store market. To succeed, alternative storefronts must lure users away from familiar platforms. Epic Games Store uses free games as a draw, while Apptoide offers a broader range of apps. Skich's gamer-centric approach has potential, but its success is far from guaranteed.
The landscape is shifting, however, with major publishers like EA and Flexion collaborating on alternative app stores. This trend suggests a future where official storefronts might take a backseat to innovative newcomers. Skich's focus on gaming and discoverability could position it well in this evolving market, but only time will tell if it can truly stand out.
