GeoGuessr Responds to Feedback Amid Steam Rating Plunge

GeoGuessr Steam Edition, a much-anticipated reimagining of the beloved browser game, was released on Steam on May 8. Despite the excitement, it has quickly become the second-worst rated game of all time on Steam. The browser version of GeoGuessr has been a massive success, attracting 85 million players and offering extensive customization options. Players can choose their opponents, select specific maps, decide between urban or rural settings, restrict spawns to certain regions, and toggle movement, panning, and zooming capabilities, including the no-move-pan-zoom (NMPZ) mode. Additionally, the browser version features a rich collection of community-created custom maps.

However, the Steam version has garnered overwhelmingly negative feedback, with 84% of over 3,000 user reviews being negative as of May 13. Players are particularly vocal about the game's monetization system and the significant reduction in gameplay options compared to the browser edition.

Just 16% of user reviews are positive as of May 13. Image credit: Steam / GeoGuessr.

The dissatisfaction extends beyond monetization. Players are frustrated that linking their browser GeoGuessr account to their Steam account is irreversible, and they cannot log out of the Steam version. Solo play is unavailable, even for practice, and the free amateur mode is reportedly filled with bots rather than real players. Furthermore, purchasing features for the browser version does not extend to the Steam edition.

GeoGuessr has addressed these concerns in its FAQs, stating that a browser subscription does not 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, providing full access for a year. As an early access title, the game is poised for 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 limited features have caught players off guard. 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. Accessing 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 is also not entirely free. Players can enjoy three rounds daily without a subscription, but unlocking all modes necessitates a subscription 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, with the latter two granting access to the Steam game.

In an exclusive statement to IGN, GeoGuessr expressed enthusiasm about launching on Steam, a long-awaited move by the community. The developer emphasized its vision of making the game accessible across platforms, highlighting benefits such as connecting with Steam friends and enhanced anti-cheat functionality, which is crucial for the GeoGuessr community battling cheating issues in the browser game.

Tomas Jonson, head of marketing, described the Steam release as a "major milestone" and the "beginning" of further development. He acknowledged the feedback on the game's monetization, noting that many players prefer a one-time purchase model. Jonson explained that the Steam edition's monetization is based on the browser game's model, with the Steam Pass being a non-recurring yearly purchase due to ongoing costs associated with Google Street View data.

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 based on player feedback. Jonson emphasized the company's commitment to working closely with the community to enhance the Steam Edition.