GeoGuessr Steam Edition, a reimagined version of the popular browser game, launched on Steam on May 8. Despite its recent release, it has quickly become the second-worst rated game of all time on Steam. The original browser version of GeoGuessr is renowned for its success, with 85 million players enjoying a wide range of customization options. These include the ability to choose opponents, select specific maps, decide between urban or rural settings, restrict geographical spawns, and toggle movement, panning, and zooming capabilities, including the option for no movement, panning, or zooming (NMPZ). Additionally, the browser game offers a plethora of community-created custom maps.

Since its release last Wednesday, the Steam version has garnered over 3,000 user reviews, with a staggering 84% being negative. Players have expressed significant dissatisfaction with the game's monetization system and the limited gameplay options compared to the browser version.

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

Players are also frustrated by several other issues with the Steam edition. Linking a browser GeoGuessr account to a Steam account is permanent, with no option to unlink or log out. Solo play for practice is not available, and the free amateur mode appears to be populated by bots rather than real players. Furthermore, purchasing features on the browser version does not extend to the Steam edition.

In defense of the game, 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. The Steam Edition offers a one-time purchase Steam Pass for full access for a year, and it is labeled as an early access title to allow for gameplay refinement and the introduction of new features based on player feedback.

Despite these clarifications, the monetization model and feature limitations have surprised and disappointed many players, as evident from discussions on Steam forums and GeoGuessr's subreddit.

Although labeled as free-to-play, the Steam version of GeoGuessr provides less than an hour of free content, featuring only one mode, Duels, and one league, Amateur Division. To access higher ranks, players must subscribe to a $2.50 monthly plan, which requires a $30 upfront payment for a year. Currently, no other modes are available.

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

It's worth noting that the browser version of GeoGuessr is also not entirely free. Players can enjoy three rounds daily for free, but to unlock all modes, a subscription to one of three premium tiers is necessary: Pro Basic at $2.49 a month, Pro Unlimited at $2.99 a month, or Pro Elite at $4.99 a month. Only the Pro Unlimited and Pro Elite subscriptions include free access to the Steam game.

In an exclusive statement to IGN, GeoGuessr expressed excitement about the Steam release, which was highly requested by the community. The company emphasized its vision of allowing players to explore the world across different platforms, citing benefits such as connecting with Steam friends and enhanced anti-cheat functionality, which is crucial for combating the cheating issues that have long affected the browser version.

Head of marketing Tomas Jonson highlighted the early access phase as a significant milestone and the beginning of ongoing improvements to both free and paid experiences. He acknowledged the community's feedback on the monetization model, with many preferring a one-time purchase option. Jonson explained that due to ongoing costs associated with Google Street View data, the Steam edition follows a similar model to the browser game, with the main difference being the non-recurring yearly purchase of the Steam Pass.

GeoGuessr plans to keep the Steam version in early access for at least six months, during which time they will introduce new features and refine the game based on player feedback. The company aims to expand the Steam game with new modes, maps, and competitive features, and they value the high engagement and feedback received thus far.