GeoGuessr Responds to Feedback Amid Poor Steam Ratings

GeoGuessr Steam Edition, a Steam reimagining of one of the world's most beloved browser games, was released on May 8 but has quickly become the second-worst rated game of all time on Steam. The browser version of GeoGuessr has been incredibly successful, with 85 million players and a wide range of customization options. These options allow players to tailor their gameplay, including choosing opponents, selecting maps, deciding between urban or rural settings, restricting spawns to specific regions, and toggling movement, panning, and zooming capabilities, including the no-move, pan, or zoom (NMPZ) mode. Additionally, the browser version features a variety of community-created custom maps.

However, the Steam version has received overwhelmingly negative feedback, with 84% of over 3,000 user reviews being negative since its launch last Wednesday. Players have primarily criticized the free-to-play game's monetization system and the limited gameplay options compared to the browser version.

Just 16% of user reviews are positive as of May 13. Image credit: Steam / GeoGuessr.

GeoGuessr fans are also frustrated by several other issues. Linking a browser GeoGuessr account to a Steam account is permanent and cannot be undone, and users cannot log out of the Steam version. Solo play, even for practice, is not available. The free amateur mode appears to be populated by bots rather than real players. Moreover, purchasing features for the browser version does not transfer to the Steam version.

In its defense, GeoGuessr clarifies in its FAQs that a browser subscription does not automatically grant full access to the Steam Edition, except for those with an Elite Yearly subscription. The Steam Edition offers a one-time purchase Steam Pass for full-year access, unlike the browser edition's annual payment model. The game is also marked as an early access title, allowing for gameplay refinement, new feature introductions, and direct player feedback to ensure the best possible experience.

Despite this, the Steam discussion forums and GeoGuessr's subreddit reveal that the monetization model and feature limitations have caught many players off guard. Although labeled as free-to-play, the Steam version offers less than an hour of free content, limited to the Duels mode in the Amateur Division. To access higher ranks, players must pay a $30 upfront fee for a $2.50 monthly subscription, and no other modes are currently available.

GeoGuessr's three premium plans for its browser game. Image credit: GeoGuessr.

The browser version of GeoGuessr is also not free, allowing three rounds per day without a subscription. To access all modes, players must subscribe to one of three premium tiers: Pro Basic at $2.49 a month, Pro Unlimited at $2.99 a month, or Pro Elite at $4.99 a month. Only the latter two include free access to the Steam game.

In an exclusive statement to IGN, GeoGuessr expressed excitement about the Steam version, noting that it aligns with their vision of making the game accessible across different platforms. The company highlighted new possibilities like connecting with Steam friends and enhanced anti-cheat functionality, which is vital for addressing the cheating issues that have plagued the browser game.

Tomas Jonson, head of marketing, described the Steam release as a major milestone but also the beginning of further development. He acknowledged feedback on the monetization model and the desire for a one-time purchase option. Jonson explained that due to ongoing costs associated with Google Street View data, the Steam edition follows a similar model to the browser game, with the Steam Pass being a non-recurring yearly purchase.

GeoGuessr plans to keep the Steam version in early access for at least six months, during which time they will introduce new features, maps, and competitive elements. The company appreciates the high engagement and feedback from players and is committed to working closely with the community to develop the Steam Edition further.