With Apple's ecosystem now more accessible than ever, a surge of alternative app stores has emerged, each vying to be the first successful alt app store on iOS. The latest to enter this competitive arena is Skich, a gaming-centric platform that aims to set itself apart from competitors like Apptoide by concentrating primarily on gaming rather than a broader range of apps.

Skich's unique selling proposition is its advanced discoverability system, which revolves around three key features: a sophisticated recommendation engine, a swipe-based game discovery mechanism, and a robust social system. This allows users to browse through curated lists and see what games their friends and like-minded gamers are playing. These features echo the successful model of Steam, which is a positive sign for Skich's potential.

While platforms like the Epic Games Store for iOS have struggled with a lack of social and discoverability features that gamers have come to expect from services like Steam and GOG, Skich aims to fill this gap. However, the question remains: can Skich's focus on gamer-first features be enough to draw users away from established platforms?

**Big fish, small pond?** Skich's emphasis on discoverability and social engagement is a compelling advantage, yet it may not be sufficient on its own to ensure success. The challenge for any new entrant in the iOS app store space is to convince users to shift from their familiar environments.

Epic Games Store, for instance, attracts users with the allure of free games, while Apptoide diversifies its offerings with a variety of apps. Skich's niche focus on gaming could be its ticket to success, but the outcome is far from certain.

Nevertheless, as major publishers like EA and Flexion explore partnerships to create their own alternative app stores, we might soon see a landscape where these new entrants challenge the dominance of official storefronts. Skich has a chance to make a significant impact in this evolving market, but it will need more than just innovative features to truly stand out.