GeoGuessr Steam Edition, the much-anticipated Steam reimagining of the beloved browser game, launched on May 8. However, it has quickly garnered the second-worst rating of all time on Steam. The browser version of GeoGuessr has thrived with 85 million players, offering extensive customization options that allow players to tailor their gaming experience. These options include choosing opponents, selecting maps, deciding between urban or rural settings, restricting spawns to specific regions, and toggling movement, panning, or zooming capabilities—including the option for No Movement, Panning, or Zooming (NMPZ). Additionally, the browser version features an array of community-created custom maps.
Since its release last Wednesday, the Steam version has received over 3,000 user reviews, with a staggering 84% being negative. The primary grievances include the game's monetization model and the significant reduction in gameplay options compared to the browser version. Only 16% of user reviews have been positive as of May 13.
Image credit: Steam / GeoGuessr.
Further frustrations for GeoGuessr fans include the inability to unlink or log out of a Steam account once it's linked to a browser account. Solo play for practice is not available, and the free amateur mode is reportedly filled with bots rather than human players. Moreover, purchasing features on the browser version does not transfer to the Steam edition.
GeoGuessr's FAQs clarify that a browser subscription does not provide full access to the Steam Edition unless it's an Elite Yearly subscription. The Steam Edition's Steam Pass is a one-time purchase granting a year's access, and the game is marked as an early access title, allowing for ongoing improvements based on player feedback.
Despite these clarifications, the monetization model and feature limitations have caught players off guard, as evidenced by discussions on Steam forums and GeoGuessr's subreddit. Although labeled 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 pay a $30 upfront fee for a $2.50 monthly subscription.
GeoGuessr's three premium plans for its browser game. Image credit: GeoGuessr.
The browser game, 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 per month, or Pro Elite at $4.99 per month. Only the latter two include access to the Steam game.
In an exclusive statement to IGN, GeoGuessr expressed excitement about the Steam release, fulfilling a long-standing community request. The company emphasized its vision of allowing exploration across different platforms, citing benefits like connecting with Steam friends and enhanced anti-cheat measures. The browser game has struggled with cheating, and GeoGuessr hopes to leverage Steam's architecture to address this issue.
Tomas Jonson, head of marketing, described the Steam launch as a major milestone and the start of further development. The game remains in Early Access, with plans to expand and improve both free and paid experiences. Feedback has predominantly focused on the game's monetization, with many players preferring a one-time purchase model. Jonson explained that due to 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 it will introduce new features and enhance the gaming experience based on player feedback. The developer aims to expand the game with new modes, maps, and competitive features, and values the engagement and feedback from its community.
