GeoGuessr Responds to Feedback Amid Steam Rating Plunge

GeoGuessr Steam Edition, a Steam reimagining of one of the world's most beloved browser games, was released on May 8, but it has already garnered the title of the second-worst rated game of all time on Steam. The browser version of GeoGuessr has been a massive hit, amassing 85 million players and offering a plethora of customization options. Players can choose their opponents, select specific maps, decide between urban or rural settings, limit spawns to certain regions, and toggle movement, panning, and zooming capabilities, including the option to play in NMPZ (no movement, pan, or zoom) mode. Additionally, the community has contributed a wide array of custom maps, enriching the gameplay experience.

However, the Steam version has not been as well-received. Out of over 3,000 user reviews since its release last Wednesday, a staggering 84% are negative. The primary complaints revolve around the game's monetization system and the limited gameplay options compared to the browser version. Just 16% of user reviews are positive as of May 13.

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

Further dissatisfaction stems from several other issues with the Steam version. Players cannot unlink their browser GeoGuessr account from their Steam account, nor can they log out of the Steam version. Solo play is not available, even for practice, and the free amateur mode is reportedly filled with bots rather than real players. Perhaps most frustratingly, unlocking features through a browser subscription does not extend to the Steam version.

In its defense, GeoGuessr clarifies in its FAQs that a browser subscription does not grant full access to the Steam Edition unless it's an Elite Yearly subscription. Unlike the annual payment required for the browser edition, the Steam Edition's Steam Pass is a one-time purchase providing a year's access to the full game. It's also labeled as an early access title, allowing for gameplay refinement and the addition of new features based on player feedback.

However, the monetization model and lack of features 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, includes only one mode (Duels) within the Amateur Division, and requires a $30 upfront payment for a $2.50 monthly subscription to access higher ranks. No other modes are available at this time.

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

To clarify, the browser version of GeoGuessr isn't free either. Players can enjoy three rounds per day 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 per month, or Pro Elite at $4.99 per 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 launching the game on Steam, a long-standing request from the community. The company aligns this move with its vision of enabling global exploration across different platforms. The Steam version offers new features like connecting with Steam friends and enhanced anti-cheat functionality, which is crucial for combating the cheating prevalent in the browser game.

Tomas Jonson, head of marketing, described the Steam release as a significant milestone and the start of further development. Currently in Early Access, the game is set to expand and improve both its free and paid experiences. Feedback has largely centered on the monetization model, with many players desiring a one-time purchase option. Jonson explained that, due to the ongoing costs associated with Google Street View data, the Steam edition's model mirrors that of 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 it will introduce new features and enhance the player experience based on direct feedback. The Steam page also mentions plans to expand the game with new modes, maps, and competitive features.

Jonson concluded by emphasizing the value of the community's high engagement and feedback, stating that GeoGuessr will continue to work closely with players as they further develop the Steam Edition.