GeoGuessr Responds to Criticism as Steam Version Nears Bottom of Valve's Ratings

GeoGuessr Steam Edition, a reimagined version of the popular browser game, launched on Steam on May 8, but it has quickly garnered the second-worst rating of all time on the platform. While the browser version of GeoGuessr has thrived with 85 million players and an array of customization options—including tailored opponent selection, map preferences, urban or rural settings, regional restrictions, and movement controls like NMPZ (no move, pan, or zoom)—the Steam version has received overwhelmingly negative feedback.

Since its release last Wednesday, over 3,000 user reviews have been posted, with a staggering 84% being negative. Players are primarily frustrated with the game's monetization strategy and the significant reduction in gameplay options compared to the browser edition. Only 16% of the reviews are positive as of May 13.

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

Beyond the monetization issues, several other concerns have emerged among GeoGuessr fans. Linking a browser GeoGuessr account to a Steam account is a one-way street: you cannot unlink it, nor can you log out of the Steam version. Additionally, there is no option to play solo for practice, and the free amateur mode is filled with bots rather than human opponents. Most notably, purchasing features for the browser version does not extend to the Steam edition, despite clear statements in the FAQs that only an Elite Yearly subscription grants full access to the Steam Edition.

The Steam Edition is labeled as an early access title, allowing the developers to refine gameplay, introduce new features, and gather direct feedback from players. However, the monetization model and feature limitations have caught many players off guard, as evidenced by discussions on Steam forums and the GeoGuessr subreddit.

Although marketed as free-to-play, the Steam version offers limited content, with only the Duels mode available and restricted to the Amateur Division. To access higher ranks, players must purchase a $30 one-off payment for a year-long subscription, which is not billed monthly. This contrasts with the browser game, which offers three rounds daily for free but requires a subscription to unlock all modes, ranging from Pro Basic at $2.49 a month to Pro Elite at $4.99 a month, the latter two of which include access to the Steam game.

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

In an exclusive statement to IGN, GeoGuessr expressed excitement about bringing the game to Steam, a long-requested move by the community. The company highlighted the benefits of Steam integration, such as connecting with Steam friends and enhanced anti-cheat measures, which are crucial for addressing the cheating issues that have plagued the browser version.

Tomas Jonson, head of marketing at GeoGuessr, described the Steam launch as a "major milestone" and emphasized the company's commitment to expanding and improving both the free and paid experiences during the early access phase, which is expected to last at least six months. The feedback has largely focused on the monetization model, with many players advocating for a one-time purchase option. Jonson explained that the costs associated with Google Street View data necessitate a similar model to the browser game, with the main difference being the non-recurring yearly purchase of the Steam Pass.

GeoGuessr plans to introduce new modes, maps, and competitive features to the Steam version, and the company values the high engagement and feedback from players as it continues to develop the game.