GeoGuessr Responds to Feedback Amid Plummeting Steam Ratings

GeoGuessr Steam Edition, a reimagined version of the immensely popular browser game, hit Steam on May 8. Despite its recent release, it has already earned the dubious distinction of being the second-worst rated game of all time on Steam.

The original browser version of GeoGuessr has thrived, attracting 85 million players and offering a wide array of customization options. These allow players to fine-tune their gaming experience, from choosing opponents and map types to deciding whether they'll spawn in urban or rural environments. Players can even restrict spawns to specific regions, toggle movement, panning, and zooming capabilities, or opt for the No-Move-Pan-Zoom (NMPZ) mode. Additionally, the game boasts an impressive collection of community-created custom maps.

In stark contrast, the Steam version, since its launch last Wednesday, has garnered over 3,000 user reviews, with a staggering 84% being negative. Players are vocal about their dissatisfaction with the game's monetization system and the limited gameplay options compared to its browser counterpart.

As of May 13, only 16% of user reviews on Steam are positive. Image credit: Steam / GeoGuessr.

Beyond the monetization issues, several other factors are frustrating GeoGuessr fans. Linking a browser GeoGuessr account to a Steam account is permanent; you cannot unlink it nor log out of the Steam version. Solo play, even for practice, is not available, and the free amateur mode is reportedly filled with bots instead of real players. Most shockingly, purchasing features for the browser version does not transfer to the Steam edition.

GeoGuessr has addressed these concerns in its FAQs, stating that a browser subscription does not automatically unlock the Steam Edition, except for those with an Elite Yearly subscription. The Steam Edition's Steam Pass is a one-time purchase that grants full access for a year. The game is also labeled as an early access title, which allows for ongoing development and refinement based on player feedback.

Nevertheless, the monetization model and feature limitations have caught many players off guard, as evident from discussions on Steam 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 in the Amateur Division. To access higher ranks, players must subscribe to a $2.50 monthly plan, which requires a $30 upfront payment. Currently, no other modes are available.

GeoGuessr's three premium plans for its browser game. Image credit: GeoGuessr.

The browser version, 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 a month, and Pro Elite at $4.99 a month. Only the latter two subscriptions include free access to the Steam game.

In an exclusive statement to IGN, GeoGuessr expressed excitement about bringing the game to Steam, fulfilling a long-standing community request. They emphasized their vision of making the game accessible across different platforms and highlighted the benefits of Steam integration, such as connecting with Steam friends and enhanced anti-cheat measures. The latter is particularly vital to combat cheating, which has been a persistent issue in the browser version.

Tomas Jonson, head of marketing, described the Steam release as a significant milestone and the beginning of further developments. Acknowledging the feedback on monetization, he mentioned the ongoing costs associated with Google Street View data, which influenced the pricing model for the Steam edition. The Steam Pass, however, is a non-recurring yearly purchase.

GeoGuessr plans to keep the Steam version in early access for at least six months, with intentions to introduce new features, modes, maps, and competitive elements based on player feedback. Jonson emphasized the company's commitment to engaging with the community and enhancing the Steam Edition's experience over time.