GeoGuessr Steam Edition, a highly anticipated reimagining of the beloved browser game, launched on Steam on May 8. Despite the excitement surrounding its release, it has quickly become the second-worst rated game on the platform. The browser version of GeoGuessr has thrived, 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, and even restrict spawns to certain regions. They can also toggle movement, panning, and zooming, or opt for the No Move, Pan, or Zoom (NMPZ) mode, alongside numerous community-created custom maps.
However, the Steam version has received a starkly different reception. With over 3,000 user reviews since its launch, a staggering 84% are negative. The primary grievances revolve around the game's monetization and the lack of features compared to the browser edition. Just 16% of reviews are positive as of May 13.
Image credit: Steam / GeoGuessr.
GeoGuessr fans are also frustrated by several other issues with the Steam version. Linking your browser account to Steam results in an inability to unlink or log out from the Steam version. Solo play for practice is not an option, and the free amateur mode appears to be populated with bots rather than real players. Moreover, purchasing features for the browser version does not transfer to the Steam edition.
In its defense, GeoGuessr has been transparent about these limitations in its FAQs. The developer notes that a browser subscription does not grant full access to the Steam Edition unless it's an Elite Yearly subscription. Unlike the browser's annual payment model, the Steam Edition's Steam Pass is a one-time purchase for a year's access. Additionally, the game is clearly marked as an early access title, allowing for gameplay refinement and the addition of new features based on player feedback.
Despite this transparency, the monetization model and feature limitations have taken the community by surprise. Although labeled as free-to-play, the Steam version offers less than an hour of free content, featuring only one mode, Duels, and one league, the Amateur Division. To access higher ranks, players must subscribe to a $2.50 monthly plan, which requires a $30 upfront payment. 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 is not entirely free either. 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 latter two include access to the Steam game.
In an exclusive statement to IGN, GeoGuessr expressed enthusiasm about bringing the game to Steam, a move long requested by the community. The developer aims to leverage Steam's platform to enhance player connectivity, introduce anti-cheat measures, and more. The anti-cheat functionality is particularly important, as the browser game has been plagued by cheaters using various exploits.
Tomas Jonson, head of marketing, emphasized that the Steam release marks a significant milestone and is just the beginning. The game is currently in Early Access, with plans to expand and improve both free and paid experiences based on player feedback. A key concern has been the monetization model, with many players preferring a one-time purchase option. GeoGuessr 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 notable exception of the Steam Pass being a non-recurring yearly purchase.
GeoGuessr anticipates the Steam version will remain in early access for at least six months, during which time they plan to introduce new features, modes, maps, and competitive elements. The developer values the community's engagement and feedback and is committed to working closely with players as they further develop the Steam Edition.
