EU iPhone Users Get New Gaming App Store with Skich Launch
In a significant development for mobile gamers in the European Union, a new third-party app store called Skich has launched, targeting iPhone users. This move comes in the wake of the EU’s Digital Markets Act (DMA), which has loosened Apple’s App Store restrictions, paving the way for alternative marketplaces.
Skich joins a small but growing list of third-party app stores, including AltStore Pal, SetApp Mobile, and Mobivention, that are taking advantage of the new regulatory landscape. The Skich Store is now available for iOS devices in the EU through its official website, promising a more personalized game discovery and distribution experience. An Android version is also in development.
However, Skich’s launch comes with initial limitations. The store debuted without any games available, a stark contrast to competitor Aptoide, which launched with eight basic titles. Despite this, Skich CEO Sergey Budkovski remains optimistic, stating that games will begin appearing on the platform in March.
The new app store has already garnered interest from approximately 20 developers. Skich aims to attract more by offering a competitive 15 percent fee on developer purchases, undercutting Apple’s 20 percent fee in the EU.
One of Skich’s standout features is its innovative Tinder-like recommendation system, designed to match gamers with games that suit their preferences. This algorithm is powered by an impressive 240 genres, significantly surpassing the classification system used by Apple’s App Store.
As one of the few third-party app stores to emerge following the DMA enforcement, Skich’s entry into the market is notable. Industry observers are keenly watching how the platform’s game library will expand and whether its unique recommendation system will enhance user experience.
The effectiveness of Skich’s algorithm in optimizing game recommendations will be put to the test once more titles become available on the platform. As the EU’s app marketplace continues to evolve, Skich’s progress could signal a new era in mobile game distribution and discovery for European iPhone users.
