The executable I downloaded from itch.io attempts to start the game through Steam, and won't start unless I register the game there.
I don't have Steam installed at all (and don't plan on changing that); When I try to launch Desert Child from itch absolutely nothing happens. I assume these are related?
Hopefully the Itch edition will be fixed soon.. otherwise, maybe the developer can comp me a GoG key? I'll gladly trade my steam copy for one.
Update: Problem Fixed! Thanks, devs!