VGSources / Best Game Launchers / itch app
What it is
The itch app is a desktop client for downloading and running games and software from itch.io. Its built-in browser lets users visit creator pages and install titles, while the library keeps downloads together and updates installed games automatically. The app also provides access to collections, bundles, purchases, and installed games. Browser-based games can be synced for offline play, and games using itch.io command-line tools can receive delta patches containing only changed data. It is available for Windows, macOS, and Linux, and Windows 7 or newer is required. The project is open source, and the app is available in over 20 languages. Creators can provide an app manifest to define launch targets and integrate with the app API. The client registers itch:// and itchio:// links and can create Steam library shortcuts for installed games. Its sandbox limits file access, with isolated home directories for Linux games and less-privileged execution for Windows games. Compatibility problems can still occur, especially on Linux when games do not follow best practices. The app is free, listed as free.
Good, and not so good
- Keeps downloads together and updates installed games
- Syncs browser-based games for offline play
- Open-source project available in over 20 languages
- Can create Steam library shortcuts
- Windows requires version 7 or newer
- Compatibility problems can occur, especially on Linux
Who it suits
It suits players who download games and software from itch.io and want a desktop library with offline play options. It is available on Windows, macOS, and Linux.
The itch app combines browsing, installation, library management, and offline support for itch.io titles. Linux users should be aware that compatibility problems can still occur.
Plans
- itch appDownloads and runs itch.io games and software · Windows, macOS, LinuxFree
As itch.io lists them, read 2 Oct 2026.