GeoGuessr Steam Edition, a reimagined version of the popular browser game, was released on Steam on May 8. Despite its short time on the platform, it has quickly become the second-worst rated game of all time on Steam.
The original browser version of GeoGuessr enjoys immense popularity with 85 million players. It offers extensive customization, allowing players to choose their opponents, select specific maps, decide between urban or rural settings, and restrict spawns to particular regions. Players can also toggle movement, panning, and zooming options—including the unique "No Move, Pan, Zoom" (NMPZ) mode—and enjoy a variety of community-created custom maps.
In stark contrast, the Steam version has received overwhelmingly negative feedback. Out of over 3,000 user reviews since its launch last Wednesday, 84% are negative. Players are particularly frustrated with the game's monetization system and the significant reduction in gameplay options compared to the browser version.
Just 16% of user reviews are positive as of May 13. Image credit: Steam / GeoGuessr.
Additional grievances include the inability to unlink a browser GeoGuessr account from a Steam account, the lack of a logout feature in the Steam version, and the absence of a solo practice mode. The free amateur mode is reportedly filled with bots rather than real players. Moreover, even if players pay for features in the browser version, these do not transfer to the Steam edition.
GeoGuessr has addressed some of these concerns in its FAQs, stating that a browser subscription does not grant full access to the Steam Edition unless it's an Elite Yearly subscription. The Steam Edition's Steam Pass is a one-time purchase that provides a year's access to the full game. It's also marked as an early access title, allowing for gameplay refinement and the introduction of new features based on player feedback.
Despite these clarifications, the Steam discussion forums and GeoGuessr's subreddit reveal that the monetization model and feature limitations have caught many players off guard. Although marketed as free-to-play, the Steam version offers less than an hour of free content, featuring only the Duels mode in the Amateur Division. To access higher ranks, players must purchase a $30 upfront payment for a $2.50 monthly subscription.
GeoGuessr's three premium plans for its browser game. Image credit: GeoGuessr.
The browser version, while offering three free rounds daily, requires a subscription to unlock all modes: 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 bringing the game to Steam, a long-requested feature by the community. The move aligns with their vision of making the game accessible across different platforms, offering benefits like connecting with Steam friends and enhanced anti-cheat functionality, which is crucial for combating cheating prevalent in the browser version.
Tomas Jonson, head of marketing, described the Steam release as a "major milestone" and emphasized that the game is in Early Access. GeoGuessr is committed to expanding and improving both the free and paid experiences based on player feedback. The monetization model, which mirrors the browser game's approach due to ongoing costs associated with Google Street View data, has been a focal point of criticism, with many players advocating for a one-time purchase model.
GeoGuessr plans to keep the Steam version in early access for at least six months, during which time they will introduce new features, modes, maps, and competitive elements. The developer values the high engagement and feedback from players and intends to continue working closely with the community to develop the Steam Edition further.
