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, aims to make its mark by focusing exclusively on gaming, setting itself apart from competitors like Apptoide, which offer a broader range of applications.
Skich's unique selling proposition lies in its robust discoverability system, which is designed to enhance user engagement and retention. This system is built around three key features: a recommendation engine, a swipe-based discovery mechanism, and a social platform that allows users to see what games their friends and others with similar tastes are playing. These elements draw parallels with Steam, a well-known and beloved platform among PC gamers, which is not necessarily a disadvantage. In contrast, the Epic Games Store for iOS, which mirrors its PC version, lacks these social and discoverability features that are often taken for granted on platforms like Steam and GOG.
Big Fish, Small Pond?While Skich's emphasis on these gamer-first features is a strong selling point, it remains to be seen whether this will be enough to lure users away from established platforms. Epic Games Store, for instance, attracts users with free games, while Apptoide's broader app focus offers a different kind of appeal. Skich's success is not guaranteed, but it certainly has a chance.
The landscape of alternative app stores is evolving rapidly, with major publishers like EA and Flexion joining forces to explore new opportunities. This trend suggests a future where alternative app stores might overshadow the official ones, offering innovative and specialized experiences to users.
