GeoGuessr Responds to Feedback as Steam Edition Nears Bottom Rating on Valve's Platform

GeoGuessr Steam Edition, a highly anticipated Steam version of the popular browser game, launched on May 8 but has quickly become the second-worst rated game of all time on Steam. The browser version of GeoGuessr has enjoyed tremendous success, attracting 85 million players with extensive customization options. Players can tailor their experience by choosing opponents, map types, urban or rural settings, specific geographical regions, and toggling features like movement, panning, and zooming, including the popular No Move, Pan, Zoom (NMPZ) mode. Additionally, the browser version offers a wide range of community-created custom maps.

However, the Steam version has received a starkly different reception. Out of over 3,000 user reviews since its release last Wednesday, a staggering 84% are negative. Players have expressed significant dissatisfaction with the game's monetization system and the limited gameplay options compared to the browser edition.

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

Additional issues have surfaced for GeoGuessr fans. Once players link their browser account to their Steam account, they cannot unlink it or log out of the Steam version. Furthermore, players are unable to play solo, even for practice, and the free amateur mode appears to be populated with bots rather than real players. Most notably, purchasing features on the browser version does not transfer to the Steam edition.

In defense of the game, GeoGuessr's FAQs clarify that "having a GeoGuessr browser subscription does not grant you full access to the GeoGuessr Steam Edition, unless you have an Elite Yearly subscription." The Steam Edition's Steam Pass is a "one-time purchase giving you access to the full game for the year," unlike the browser version's annual subscription model. The game is also marked as an early access title, allowing developers to refine gameplay, introduce new features, and gather direct feedback from players.

Despite these clarifications, the Steam discussion forums and GeoGuessr's subreddit reveal that the monetization model and lack of features have surprised and frustrated many players. Although labeled as free-to-play, the Steam version offers less than an hour of free content, featuring only one mode, Duels, and one league, the Amateur Division. To access higher ranks, players must purchase a $2.50 monthly subscription, which requires a $30 upfront payment.

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

To clarify, the browser version of GeoGuessr is also not free. Players can enjoy three rounds daily without cost, but unlocking all modes requires a subscription to one of three premium tiers: Pro Basic at $2.49 a month, Pro Unlimited at $2.99 per month, or Pro Elite at $4.99 per month. Only the latter two tiers include free access to the Steam game.

In an exclusive statement to IGN, GeoGuessr expressed excitement about launching their game on Steam, a move long requested by the community. They emphasized their vision of enabling global exploration across different platforms, highlighting new possibilities such as connecting with Steam friends and enhancing anti-cheat functionality. This is particularly significant given the browser game's ongoing issues with cheaters using exploits, bots, and search engines.

Head of marketing, Tomas Jonson, described the Steam launch as a major milestone and the beginning of further development. He acknowledged the early access status of the game and the commitment to expanding and improving both the free and paid experiences. Feedback has largely centered on the monetization model, with many players advocating for a one-time purchase option. Jonson explained that due to the ongoing costs associated with Google Street View data, the Steam edition mirrors the browser game's model, with the exception that the Steam Pass is a non-recurring yearly purchase.

GeoGuessr plans to keep the Steam version in early access for at least six months, aiming to introduce new features, modes, maps, and competitive elements, all while actively engaging with the community for feedback and development.