A new third-party app store named Skich has launched for iPhone users in the European Union, designed specifically for mobile gamers. Skich is available for download via its official website and aims to provide a more personalized experience in game discovery and distribution as part of the EU’s loosened regulations under the Digital Markets Act (DMA).
Skich Store launches for EU iPhone users but games rollout delayed until March
Despite its launch, the Skich currently has no games available. According to CEO Sergey Budkovski, games are expected to begin appearing on the platform in March, with requests from approximately 20 developers already received. In contrast, Aptoide, another gaming-focused third-party iOS app store, had eight basic titles at its launch last June.
Skich plans to impose a 15 percent fee on developers for purchases made through the Store, including in-app purchases, which is lower than Apple’s 20 percent fee for EU developers. Budkovski stated, “We’ve developed a Tinder-like recommendation system that perfectly matches gamers with games,” supported by an algorithm utilizing 240 genres, which is 14 times more than what is available in the App Store.
Despite the lack of available titles at launch, Skich is notable as it reflects the changing landscape of app distribution in the EU. Under new regulations, alternative app stores must be installed through their respective websites, positioning Skich’s web platform as the primary access point for users. Skich now garners 100,000 organic visitors per month, growing at an average rate of 20%, thus serving as a key driver of user acquisition.
Solving the game discovery problem
Skich addresses the common challenge of game discovery, enabling users to find games aligned with their preferences while enhancing developer visibility. Key features include:
- A recommendation system based on 240 gaming genres.
- A swipe-based discovery system allowing users to save or skip games.
- Gamelists and social mechanics to see what friends and like-minded gamers are playing.
Early adopters have indicated that 70% of users download at least one game and install two to five times more games each month compared to previous habits.
Previously, Skich functioned as a discovery app that helped players find and download games from the App Store. This functionality continues, allowing seamless game discovery while providing developers with greater exposure.
Budkovski emphasized the ongoing challenge of game discovery by stating, “Game discovery has remained a major challenge for players and developers alike. With AI making game production easier and competition fiercer, it’s time for a new approach. Skich is not just another app marketplace — it’s a platform designed specifically for gamers, making it easier than ever to find and enjoy new titles.”
For developers, Skich enhances visibility beyond traditional ranking algorithms, with 50% of users visiting a developer’s profile downloading another game from the same studio. The platform offers dedicated profile pages and improved branding opportunities, facilitating better connections with players.
Since 2022, Skich has secured $1.5 million in investment from GEM Capital to accelerate product development and expand its platform, reinforcing its commitment to reshaping mobile game distribution.
Skich is now available on iOS in Europe starting March 13th via its official website, with an Android version currently under development. The company is enhancing its platform to boost developer engagement and improve discovery features.
Featured image credit: Skich
