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

GeoGuessr Steam Edition, a Steam reimagining of one of the world's most beloved browser games, was released on May 8, yet it has quickly become the second-worst rated game of all time on Steam. The browser version of GeoGuessr is incredibly successful, with 85 million players and extensive customization options. These options allow players to tailor their opponents, choose specific maps, decide between urban or rural settings, restrict spawns to certain geographical regions, and toggle movement, panning, or zooming capabilities, including the "no move, pan, or zoom" (NMPZ) mode. Additionally, it offers a plethora of community-created custom maps.

However, the Steam version has received overwhelmingly negative feedback. Out of over 3,000 user reviews left since its launch last Wednesday, a staggering 84% are negative. Players are particularly vocal about the game's monetization system and the significant lack of gameplay options compared to the browser version.

Just 16% of user reviews are positive as of May 13. Image credit: Steam / GeoGuessr. Several issues have been highlighted by GeoGuessr fans. Linking your browser GeoGuessr account to your Steam account is permanent with no option to unlink or log out of the Steam version. Solo play is not available, even for practice, and the free amateur mode appears to be dominated by bots rather than real players. Perhaps most frustratingly, purchasing features on the browser version does not transfer to the Steam edition.

In 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. Unlike the browser edition's annual payment model, the Steam Edition's Steam Pass is a one-time purchase for a year's access. It's also marked as an early access title, allowing the developers to refine gameplay, introduce new features, and enhance the user experience with direct player feedback.

Despite these clarifications, the monetization model and limited features have taken players by surprise, as evident from both Steam discussion forums and GeoGuessr's subreddit. Although marketed as free-to-play, the Steam version offers less than an hour of free content, featuring only the Duels mode and the Amateur Division league. Access to higher ranks requires a $30 upfront payment for a $2.50 monthly subscription, with no other modes currently available.

GeoGuessr's three premium plans for its browser game. Image credit: GeoGuessr. To clarify, the browser version of GeoGuessr isn't free either; it allows three rounds per day for free, but all modes require a subscription to one of three premium tiers: Pro Basic at $2.49 per month, Pro Unlimited at $2.99 per month, or Pro Elite at $4.99 per month. Only the latter two include free access to the Steam game.

In an exclusive statement to IGN, GeoGuessr expressed excitement about launching their game on Steam, a platform long requested by the community. They emphasized that the Steam rollout aligns with their vision of making the game accessible across different platforms, offering new possibilities like connecting with Steam friends and enhanced anti-cheat functionality, which is crucial for the community battling cheating issues prevalent in the browser version.

Head of marketing, Tomas Jonson, described the Steam launch as a major milestone and the beginning of further development. He acknowledged the feedback regarding the monetization model, with many players preferring a one-time purchase. Jonson explained that due to ongoing costs tied to Google Street View data, the Steam edition follows a model similar to the browser game, with the main difference being the non-recurring yearly Steam Pass.

GeoGuessr plans to keep the Steam version in early access for at least six months, during which they will introduce new features and ensure the best possible experience, taking direct feedback from players. The developers aim to expand the game with new modes, maps, and competitive features. Jonson concluded by expressing appreciation for the high engagement and feedback, promising continued collaboration with the community to develop the Steam Edition further.