Overview

The client brings creator pages, purchases, collections, bundles, and installed games into one library. That makes it a practical companion for an itch.io-focused collection, with automatic updates reducing routine upkeep. It is not a general-purpose launcher for consolidating every game store.

Key features

Browsing creator pages and installing games happen in the same app, so discovery on itch.io can flow directly into the library. Installed games update automatically. Titles built with itch.io command-line tools can receive delta patches that download only changed data, a useful bandwidth saving when those titles support the mechanism.

Browser-based games can be synced for offline play. The app also exposes owned games, collections, bundles, and installed titles, and can create Steam library shortcuts for games installed through it. These integrations help fit itch app into an existing routine, though the Steam shortcut feature does not make it a cross-store library manager.

Developers can provide an app manifest to define launch targets and connect games to the app API. This is useful when a game has multiple ways to launch or needs app integration. Registered itch:// and itchio:// links can open pages and perform actions from elsewhere.

The app is open source and available in more than 20 languages. Its sandbox limits file access, gives Linux games isolated home directories, and runs Windows games as a less-privileged user; Windows sandboxing uses the elevate tool. Windows installers and the app are digitally signed under the name itch corp. These are concrete safeguards, but they do not remove the possibility of game compatibility problems.

Pricing

itch app costs 0.00 USD per free. The free plan downloads and runs itch.io games and software on Windows, macOS, and Linux, with no free-trial period to weigh against a paid tier. There are no paid plans in this offering; the relevant cost is whether the client supports the games and setup a player needs.

Platforms

The app runs on Windows, macOS, and Linux. Windows requires Windows 7 or newer. Compatibility issues can still arise, particularly on Linux when games do not follow best practices, so Linux users should expect some titles may need troubleshooting. Linux updates are handled through a package manager or by redownloading; options include Debian and RPM repositories, the ArchLinux AUR, and a portable tar.xz archive.

Who it's for

Choose itch app if itch.io is a meaningful part of your library and you want its browsing, installs, owned titles, and updates kept together. Offline syncing and delta patches are useful additions for supported games. Look elsewhere if you need one launcher to manage a broader set of storefronts, or if your Linux setup depends on consistently smooth compatibility across games.

Pros and cons

Pros: Free access to itch.io downloads and a combined view of purchases, collections, bundles, and installed games reduces the need to manage those titles separately.
Pros: Automatic updates, optional delta patches, and offline syncing address maintenance, download size, and connectivity for games that support them.
Pros: Open-source development, developer manifests, protocol links, and Steam shortcuts offer useful integration for players and creators.
Cons: Its focus is itch.io, so it is not a complete solution for a library spread across stores.
Cons: Compatibility issues remain possible, especially on Linux, and Linux updates require package-manager use or redownloading.

Alternatives

Steam is worth considering for a library spanning Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, and Android. Lutris is a Linux-only, open-source gaming platform for readers who want that platform-specific option. GOG Galaxy is another free client for Windows and macOS; some platform-specific features require the relevant gaming client installed. LaunchBox offers a free Windows starter plan and a paid Regular option at 30.00 USD per once. Battle.net has free desktop and mobile apps for Windows, Mac, iOS, and Android. Google Play Games on PC is a no-charge option for Windows and Android, though games or in-game items may cost extra. EA app is a Windows and macOS alternative with EA Play at 5.99 USD per month and EA Play Pro at 16.99 USD per month. Paradox Launcher is another free option for Linux, macOS, and Windows.

For broader category browsing, see PC Game Launchers, Game Distribution Platforms, Game Launcher Software, and Game Asset Marketplaces.

Verdict

itch app is an easy recommendation for players whose libraries center on itch.io: it is free, keeps those titles together, and adds automatic updates, offline syncing, and useful developer integration. Its focused remit is also its limit, and Linux users in particular should be prepared for compatibility issues and a more manual update path.

	itch app	Ubisoft Connect
Free plan	Yes	No
Free trial	No	No
Paid from	Free	$7.99/mo
Open source	No	No
Platforms	Linux, macOS, Windows	Windows
Free plan	Yes	Yes
Paid from	—	7.99 /mo
Cloud saves	—	Yes

itch app vs Ubisoft Connect

itch app

Ubisoft Connect