Skich: A New Contender in the iOS Alt-App Store Arena
The iOS ecosystem has exploded with new alt-app stores vying for dominance. Skich, the latest entrant, is taking a different approach, focusing specifically on gaming and enhanced discoverability. Can it succeed in this crowded marketplace?
Skich’s core strength lies in its innovative discovery system. It boasts three key features: a recommendation engine, a swipe-based browsing system, and a social component incorporating friend lists to showcase games enjoyed by users with similar tastes. This model bears a striking resemblance to Steam's successful approach, leveraging familiar mechanics for a smoother user experience.
A notable weakness of competitors like the Epic Games Store on iOS is the lack of robust social features and discoverability options, features taken for granted by users of platforms like Steam and GOG. Skich aims to capitalize on this gap.
Can Skich Make a Splash?
Skich's gamer-centric design is a definite advantage. However, its success is far from guaranteed. To stand out, alt-app stores need to offer compelling reasons for users to switch from established platforms. Epic Games Store uses free games as an incentive; Apptoide offers a broader app selection. Skich's focus on discoverability, while strong, might not be enough to sway users entrenched in their current habits.
The increasing involvement of major publishers like EA and Flexion in the alt-app store landscape suggests a potential shift in the future. We may be witnessing the rise of alternative stores, potentially eclipsing the dominance of official app stores. Whether Skich can carve out a significant niche remains to be seen, but its unique approach makes it a player worth watching.
