The much-anticipated Steam Edition of GeoGuessr, launched on May 8, has quickly earned the unfortunate title of the second-worst rated game on Steam. This is a stark contrast to the browser version of GeoGuessr, which enjoys a massive following of 85 million players and offers extensive customization options. Players can tailor their gaming experience by choosing opponents, selecting specific maps, deciding between urban or rural settings, restricting geographical regions, and toggling movement, panning, and zooming options, including the popular No Move, Pan, Zoom (NMPZ) mode. The browser version also boasts a rich array of community-created custom maps, enhancing its appeal.

However, the Steam version has not been well-received, with over 3,000 user reviews since its release, 84% of which are negative. The primary grievances center around the game's monetization system and the significant reduction in gameplay options compared to the browser edition. As of May 13, only 16% of reviews were positive.

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

Several issues have been highlighted by the community. Linking a browser GeoGuessr account to a Steam account is permanent, with no option to unlink or log out. Solo play is not available, even for practice, and the free amateur mode seems to be populated by bots rather than real players. Additionally, purchasing features on the browser version does not extend to the Steam version, which has frustrated many users.

In its defense, GeoGuessr has clarified in its FAQs that a browser subscription does not automatically grant access to the Steam Edition unless it's an Elite Yearly subscription. The Steam Edition's Steam Pass is a one-time purchase that provides full access for a year, unlike the browser version's annual subscription model. GeoGuessr also labels the Steam Edition as an early access title, indicating ongoing development to refine gameplay and introduce new features.

Despite these clarifications, the monetization model and lack of features have caught players off guard, as evidenced by feedback on Steam discussion forums and GeoGuessr's subreddit. The Steam Edition, marketed as free-to-play, offers limited content, essentially restricting players to the Duels mode and the Amateur Division league. To access higher ranks, a $30 upfront payment for a $2.50 monthly subscription is required, with no other modes currently available.

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

For comparison, the browser version of GeoGuessr isn't free either. While players can enjoy three rounds daily without cost, unlocking all modes requires a subscription to one of three premium tiers: 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 bringing the game to Steam, a move long requested by the community. They emphasized the alignment with their vision of making the game accessible across different platforms and highlighted new possibilities like connecting with Steam friends and enhancing anti-cheat measures, which have been a significant concern for the browser game's community due to rampant cheating.

Tomas Jonson, head of marketing at GeoGuessr, described the Steam launch as a major milestone and the beginning of a journey to expand and improve both the free and paid experiences. He acknowledged that much of the feedback has focused on the monetization model, with many players preferring a one-time purchase option. Jonson explained that the Steam edition's model mirrors the browser game's due to ongoing costs associated with Google Street View data, with the main difference being the Steam Pass's non-recurring yearly purchase.

GeoGuessr plans to keep the Steam version in early access for at least six months, during which time they will introduce new features and aim to enhance the player experience based on direct feedback. The developer is committed to expanding the game with new modes, maps, and competitive features and values the high engagement and feedback received so far.