GeoGuessr Responds to Feedback as Steam Edition Nears Bottom of Valve's Ratings

GeoGuessr Steam Edition, launched on Steam on May 8, has quickly earned the title of the second-worst rated game on the platform. The original browser version of GeoGuessr enjoys immense popularity with 85 million players and a wide array of customization options, allowing users to personalize their gameplay extensively. Players can choose their opponents, select specific maps, decide on urban or rural settings, limit spawn locations to certain regions, and toggle movement, panning, and zooming capabilities, including the No Movement, Pan, or Zoom (NMPZ) mode. The browser game also offers a variety of community-created custom maps, enhancing the gaming experience.

However, the Steam version has received a largely negative reception, with over 3,000 user reviews since its release, 84% of which are negative. Players are particularly frustrated with the game's monetization model and the limited gameplay options compared to the browser version. Only 16% of the reviews have been positive as of May 13.

Additional grievances include the inability to unlink a browser GeoGuessr account from a Steam account or to log out of the Steam version. Solo play is not an option, even for practice, and the free amateur mode appears to be populated with bots rather than real players. Moreover, features unlocked through payment in the browser version do not transfer to the Steam edition.

GeoGuessr has addressed these concerns in its FAQs, clarifying that a browser subscription does not automatically grant full access to the Steam Edition unless it is an Elite Yearly subscription. The Steam Edition's Steam Pass is a one-time purchase that provides a year of access. The game is also marked as an early access title, indicating ongoing development and refinement based on player feedback.

Despite being labeled as free-to-play, the Steam version offers limited content, with only the Duels mode available in the Amateur Division. Accessing higher ranks requires a $30 upfront payment for a $2.50 monthly subscription. Currently, there are no other game modes available.

The browser version of GeoGuessr is also not entirely free, offering three rounds per day without a subscription. To unlock all features, players must subscribe to one of three premium plans: Pro Basic at $2.49 a month, Pro Unlimited at $2.99 a month, or Pro Elite at $4.99 a month, the latter two of which include access to the Steam game.

In a statement to IGN, GeoGuessr expressed excitement about the Steam release, which they say aligns with their vision of making the game accessible across different platforms. They highlighted new possibilities such as connecting with Steam friends and enhancing anti-cheat measures, a significant concern for the community due to cheating issues in the browser game.

Tomas Jonson, head of marketing at GeoGuessr, emphasized that the Steam version is in early access and the team is committed to expanding and improving both the free and paid experiences. He acknowledged feedback regarding the game's monetization model, noting that many players prefer a one-time purchase. Jonson explained that due to 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 they will introduce new features and modes, aiming to enhance the overall experience based on direct player feedback. Jonson concluded by expressing appreciation for the community's engagement and feedback, promising continued collaboration as they develop the Steam Edition further.