Alternatives to itch

The desktop app for itch.io, which installs, updates and launches the indie games you bought or downloaded free. The listings below can replace it for an important use case. Each note says what changes if you switch.

Replacements

Listings that take over the same core job as itch.

  • Heroic Games Launcher

    An open-source launcher for Epic, GOG and Amazon Prime games, on Linux, Windows, macOS and the Steam Deck.

    FreeOpen sourceWindowsmacOSLinux

    Heroic Games Launcher is also open source and cross-platform, but covers Epic, GOG and Amazon Prime libraries instead of itch.io, and manages Wine and Proton builds.

  • Lutris

    A Linux gaming platform that installs the right emulator, Wine build or engine for each game and launches them from one place.

    FreeOpen sourceLinux

    Lutris gathers Steam, Epic, GOG and Humble libraries on Linux with community installer scripts, but it runs only on Linux and does not center on itch.io.

  • Playnite

    A Windows game library manager that pulls Steam, Epic, GOG, Battle.net, Ubisoft and emulated games into one interface.

    FreeOpen sourceWindows

    Playnite unifies many store and emulator libraries in one MIT-licensed interface, but it runs only on Windows 10 or 11 rather than macOS and Linux.

  • GOG Galaxy

    DRM-free games store and unified library that also pulls in other platforms.

    FreeProprietaryWindowsmacOS

    GOG Galaxy sells DRM-free games and can unify other platforms' libraries, but it is closed source, Windows and macOS only, and relies on unofficial connectors.

  • Steam

    Valve's PC gaming platform and client for buying, installing and playing games, with community features.

    FreemiumProprietaryWindowsmacOSLinuxAndroidiOS

    Steam has a much larger store with community features and Workshop content, but it is closed source, needs a Steam account, and ties purchased games to the platform.

  • Epic Games Store

    Epic's game storefront known for weekly free games and exclusive titles.

    FreeProprietaryWindowsmacOS

    Epic Games Store offers weekly free games and exclusives with purchasing in the app, but it is closed source and runs on Windows and macOS only.

Similar software

Related functionality, not a direct replacement.