Alternative App Stores Lead the Conversation at Gamescom 2024
Gamescom 2024 may be behind us, but one trend is clear: alternative app stores are redefining the mobile gaming landscape.
The Rise of Alternative App Stores
This year’s Gamescom saw a surge in interest around sideloading and alternative app stores, from the much-anticipated Epic Games Store to established platforms like Huawei AppGallery and Aptoide. Even new players and OEMs are stepping into the space, signaling a significant shift in game distribution.
These platforms are challenging the dominance of traditional app stores, offering publishers new ways to reach players and monetize their content.
What This Means for Game Publishers
Much of the mobile games industry has already caught up to the DTC Web Stores hype (judging by the high adoption rates across various categories). But with the rapid expansion rate of sideloading and alternative app stores, publishers should be ready to meet the opportunities this new wave of DTC will bring.
In other words, publishers should become better acquainted with the major platforms’ current policies, such as when and where sideloading is supported. Additionally, publishers should explore integrating 3rd party payment services (hey 👋) for their game’s in-app payments – so they’ll have an adequate game version ready for distribution via new app stores.
Key Players in the Alternative App Store Market
- Epic Games Store: Known for its developer-friendly revenue-sharing model, it continues to attract attention from top-tier publishers. Platform fees: 12%
- Setapp: The new app store on iOS offers users a $12.49/month subscription for full access to hundreds “carefully selected assortment of apps” for both iOS and Mac. Platform fees: 10-30%
- AltStore: Ideal for indie apps that “aren’t allowed in the App Store for one reason or another”. Platform fees: €1.50/year for AltStore users
- Amazon Appstore: Amazon’s Appstore is another important player, especially in markets where Amazon devices like Fire tablets and Fire TV are popular. It offers a different distribution channel with its own set of promotional tools and revenue opportunities. Platform fees: 30%
- Huawei AppGallery: With its expansive global reach, Huawei’s store is becoming a strong contender in the mobile app market. Platform fees: Not specified
- Samsung Galaxy Store: A significant alternative app store for Android users. It comes pre-installed on all Samsung devices and offers unique opportunities for developers to reach a vast audience. Platform fees: 30%
- Aptoide: An independent app store offering developers more flexibility and fewer restrictions. Platform fees: 25% or less
The Future of Mobile Game Distribution
The momentum behind alternative app stores and DTC sales is creating a more competitive market where publishers have greater control over their distribution strategies, leading to better terms, more diverse revenue models, and ultimately, a richer ecosystem for players.
Appcharge’s Role in This New Era
We’re thrilled to be part of this industry shift.
Whether through our web store builder, web store checkout technology, or SDK for in-game payments, our tools and services are built to help game publishers thrive in the DTC landscape.
Don’t take our word for it – Appcharge was voted Best Payment Service Provider at the PocketGamer.biz awards at Gamescom 2024!
We’re proud to already be working with ⅓ of the top grossing mobile games – and we’re just getting started. 🚀
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