GeoGuessr Steam Edition, a Steam reimagining of one of the world's most beloved browser games, was released on May 8. Despite its recent launch, it has quickly become the second-worst rated game of all time on Steam. The browser version of GeoGuessr has enjoyed tremendous success, with 85 million players and a plethora of customization options. These allow players to tailor their opponents, choose specific maps, decide between urban or rural settings, restrict spawns to particular geographical regions, and toggle movement, panning, and zooming capabilities, including the option for no movement, panning, or zooming (NMPZ). Additionally, the browser version boasts a wide array of community-made custom maps.
Since its release, the Steam version has received over 3,000 user reviews, with 84% being negative. Players have primarily criticized the free-to-play game's monetization system and the significant reduction in gameplay options compared to the browser edition. As of May 13, only 16% of reviews were positive.
Just 16% of user reviews are positive as of May 13. Image credit: Steam / GeoGuessr.
GeoGuessr fans are also frustrated by several other issues with the Steam version. Linking a browser GeoGuessr account to a Steam account is permanent, with no option to unlink or log out. Solo play for practice and improvement is not available, and the free amateur mode appears to be dominated by bots rather than real players. Furthermore, purchasing features on the browser version does not transfer to the Steam edition.
In its defense, GeoGuessr clarifies these limitations in its FAQs, noting 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's Steam Pass is a one-time purchase offering a year of full access, and it's labeled as an early access title, allowing for gameplay refinement and the introduction of new features based on player feedback.
The monetization model and lack of features have taken players by surprise, as evidenced by discussions on Steam forums and GeoGuessr's subreddit. Although the Steam version is free-to-play, it offers less than an hour of free content, featuring only the Duels mode in the Amateur Division. To access higher ranks, players must pay a $30 upfront fee for a $2.50 monthly subscription. Currently, no other modes are available.
GeoGuessr's three premium plans for its browser game. Image credit: GeoGuessr.
It's important to note that the browser version of GeoGuessr is also not free. Players can enjoy three rounds daily for free, but to unlock all modes, they 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 Pro Unlimited and Pro Elite plans include free access to the Steam game.
In an exclusive statement to IGN, GeoGuessr expressed excitement about having their first version available on Steam, a long-standing request from their community. They emphasized that the Steam rollout aligns with their vision of making the game accessible across different platforms, offering new possibilities such as connecting with Steam friends and enhancing anti-cheat functionality, which is crucial for combating cheating in the game.
Tomas Jonson, head of marketing, described the Steam launch as a major milestone and the beginning of further development. The game is in Early Access, and the team is committed to expanding and improving both the free and paid experiences. Feedback has primarily focused on the monetization model, with many players preferring a one-time purchase option. Jonson explained that due to the ongoing costs associated with Google Street View data, the Steam edition follows a model similar 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, modes, maps, and competitive elements. Jonson concluded by expressing appreciation for the high engagement and feedback from players, reaffirming their commitment to working closely with the community to further develop the Steam Edition.
