GeoGuessr Steam Edition, a reimagined version of the beloved browser game, hit the Steam platform on May 8. However, despite its enthusiastic launch, it has quickly become the second-worst rated game of all time on Steam. The original browser version of GeoGuessr enjoys immense popularity, with 85 million players and a plethora of customization options. These options allow players to fine-tune their gaming experience, from selecting opponents to choosing specific maps and settings, such as urban or rural environments, and even whether to enable movement, panning, or zooming. The browser version also offers a rich array of community-created custom maps.
Contrastingly, the Steam version has received a starkly different reception. Of the over 3,000 user reviews since its release last Wednesday, a staggering 84% are negative. Players have voiced significant concerns about the game's monetization system and the noticeable lack of gameplay options when compared to the browser version. Just 16% of user reviews are positive as of May 13.
Several issues have been highlighted by the community. Linking a browser GeoGuessr account to a Steam account is a one-way street; once linked, you cannot unlink it, nor can you log out of the Steam version. Additionally, solo play for practice is unavailable, and the free amateur mode seems to be full of bots instead of real players. Moreover, even if players pay to unlock features on the browser version, these do not carry over to Steam.
GeoGuessr has attempted to clarify these points in its FAQs. The developer notes that a GeoGuessr browser subscription does not automatically grant full access to the GeoGuessr Steam Edition, except for those with an Elite Yearly subscription. The Steam Edition's Steam Pass is a "one-time purchase giving you access to the full game for the year." It is also labeled as an early access title, allowing for gameplay refinement and the introduction of new features based on player feedback.
Despite these clarifications, the monetization model and lack of features have taken players by surprise. Although marketed as free-to-play, the Steam version offers less than an hour's worth of free content, featuring only the Duels mode in the Amateur Division. To access higher ranks, players must purchase a $2.50 monthly subscription, which requires a $30 upfront payment. Currently, there are no other game modes available.
It's worth noting that the browser version of GeoGuessr also isn't free. While it offers three free rounds daily, 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 latter two tiers include free access to the Steam game.
In an exclusive statement to IGN, GeoGuessr expressed excitement about having their game on Steam, a move long requested by their community. They highlighted the benefits of the Steam platform, such as connecting with Steam friends and implementing additional anti-cheat functionality, which is crucial for addressing the cheating issues that have plagued the browser version.
Head of marketing, Tomas Jonson, described the Steam launch as a "major milestone" and the "beginning" of their journey on the platform. He noted that the game is in Early Access and that they are committed to expanding and improving both the free and paid experiences based on player feedback. Jonson acknowledged the community's preference for a one-time purchase model but explained that ongoing costs associated with Google Street View data necessitate a recurring revenue model similar to the browser version, 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 they will introduce new features and ensure the best possible player experience. They aim to expand the game with new modes, maps, and competitive features, and they value the high engagement and feedback received thus far, promising to continue working closely with the community as they develop the Steam Edition further.
