GeoGuessr Responds to Feedback Amid Steam Rating Plunge

GeoGuessr Steam Edition, a Steam adaptation of one of the world’s most beloved browser games, launched on May 8 and has quickly become the second-worst rated game of all time on Steam.

The original browser version of GeoGuessr has enjoyed tremendous success, attracting over 85 million players worldwide. It offers extensive customization options, allowing users to tailor their experience by selecting specific maps, adjusting gameplay settings (such as urban vs. rural environments), restricting geographical regions, toggling movement controls, or even opting for No Movement, Panning, or Zooming (NMPZ). Additionally, it features a vast library of community-created custom maps that significantly enhance replayability and user engagement.

However, since its release on Steam, the new edition has faced heavy criticism. Of the more than 3,000 reviews left as of last Wednesday, 84% are negative, with the majority of players expressing dissatisfaction regarding its monetization model and the significant reduction in gameplay features compared to the browser version.

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

That’s not all. GeoGuessr fans have also raised concerns about account management issues. If you link your browser-based GeoGuessr account to your Steam profile, there is currently no option to unlink the accounts or log out of the Steam version entirely. Solo practice is not available, and many players report that the free Amateur Mode appears to be filled with bots rather than real opponents. Perhaps most controversially, purchasing premium features on the browser version does not carry over to the Steam Edition.

To its credit, GeoGuessr clearly outlines these limitations in its [FAQs]. It notes that owning a subscription to the browser version does not automatically grant full access to the Steam Edition unless the user has an Elite Yearly subscription. Unlike the browser game, which requires an annual payment, the Steam Edition offers a “Steam Pass”—a one-time purchase granting access to the full game for one year.

The title is listed as an Early Access release, indicating that further development and refinement are planned. According to the developers, this phase will allow them to improve gameplay, add new features, and incorporate direct player feedback to ensure the best possible experience.

Still, the current state of the Steam Edition has surprised and frustrated many players. Despite being labeled as free-to-play, the amount of accessible content is minimal—offering what feels like less than an hour of gameplay. At launch, only one mode, Duels, is available, limiting matches to the Amateur Division. To unlock higher ranks or additional content, players must purchase a $2.50 monthly subscription, which actually requires a $30 upfront annual payment.

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

It’s important to note that the browser version of GeoGuessr isn’t free either. While casual players can enjoy up to three rounds per day without cost, unlocking all modes requires subscribing to one of three tiers: Pro Basic ($2.49/month), Pro Unlimited ($2.99/month), or Pro Elite ($4.99/month). Only the latter two subscriptions include access to the Steam Edition.

In an exclusive statement to IGN, GeoGuessr expressed enthusiasm about bringing the game to Steam, calling it "a major milestone" and highlighting that it aligns with the company’s vision of enabling global exploration across platforms. The move also opens up new possibilities such as connecting with Steam friends and implementing enhanced anti-cheat systems—features long requested by the community.

Cheating has been a persistent issue in the browser version, where players exploit tools like Google Maps despite strict community rules against such behavior. By leveraging Steam’s platform, GeoGuessr aims to address these concerns and foster a fairer competitive environment.

Tomas Jonson, head of marketing at GeoGuessr, acknowledged that much of the early feedback centers around monetization preferences, with many players favoring a one-time purchase model. However, he explained that due to ongoing licensing costs tied to Google Street View data, the team opted for a monetization structure similar to the browser edition.

"The main difference," Jonson noted, "is that the Steam Pass is a non-recurring yearly purchase."

According to the developer, the Steam Edition will remain in Early Access for at least six months while the team works on expanding gameplay with new modes, maps, and competitive features. The official Steam page emphasizes that the goal is to evolve the game through continuous updates and community input.

"We really appreciate the high level of engagement and the valuable feedback we've received so far," Jonson concluded. "We’re committed to listening and working closely with the community as we continue developing the Steam Edition."

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