GeoGuessr Addresses Criticism Over Steam Edition’s Low Ratings

GeoGuessr Steam Edition, a reimagined version of the popular browser game, launched on May 8 but has quickly become Steam’s second-lowest rated game ever.

The browser-based GeoGuessr enjoys massive success with 85 million players, offering extensive customization options like choosing opponents, map types, urban or rural settings, specific regions, movement restrictions (NMPZ), and access to a wealth of community-created maps.

However, of the 3,000+ user reviews for the Steam version since its release last Wednesday, 84% are negative, with players criticizing the free-to-play title’s monetization and limited gameplay compared to its browser counterpart.

Players are also frustrated by other issues. Linking a browser GeoGuessr account to Steam is permanent, with no option to unlink or log out. Solo play for practice is unavailable, and the free amateur mode feels dominated by bots rather than real players. Surprisingly, paid features unlocked on the browser version do not transfer to Steam.

In response, GeoGuessr clarifies in its FAQs that “a browser subscription does not grant full access to the Steam Edition, except for Elite Yearly subscribers.” Unlike the browser’s annual subscription, the Steam Pass is a “one-time yearly purchase for full game access.” As an early access title, it aims to refine gameplay and incorporate player feedback.

Steam forums and GeoGuessr’s subreddit reflect widespread disappointment with the monetization and limited features.

Marketed as free-to-play, GeoGuessr Steam offers roughly an hour of free content, limited to one mode—Duels, a head-to-head match—and a single league, Amateur Division. Without a $2.50 monthly subscription (requiring a $30 upfront payment), higher ranks and additional modes are inaccessible.

The browser version isn’t entirely free either, offering three daily rounds unless users subscribe to Pro Basic ($2.49/month), Pro Unlimited ($2.99/month), or Pro Elite ($4.99/month). Only the latter two include free Steam access.

In a statement to IGN, GeoGuessr expressed excitement about the Steam launch, a long-requested community feature, emphasizing its goal to “make the world accessible on any platform.” The Steam version introduces features like Steam friend integration and enhanced anti-cheat measures.

Anti-cheat functionality is critical for the GeoGuessr community, as the browser version has struggled with cheaters exploiting Google Street View, bots, or external tools, despite community guidelines prohibiting such behavior. The developers likely aim to leverage Steam’s infrastructure to address this.

“This is a significant step for us, and just the start,” said Tomas Jonson, head of marketing. “As an Early Access title, we’re dedicated to improving both free and paid experiences based on feedback, particularly around monetization, where many prefer a one-time purchase model.”

GeoGuessr noted that its reliance on Google Street View incurs ongoing costs tied to game volume, leading to a monetization model similar to the browser version.

“The Steam Pass, however, is a non-recurring yearly purchase,” Jonson clarified.

The Steam Edition will remain in early access for at least six months, with plans to add new modes, maps, and competitive features based on player input.

“We value the community’s engagement and feedback,” Jonson added. “We’ll keep listening and collaborating to enhance the Steam Edition.”