GeoGuessr Responds to Feedback Amid Plummeting Steam Ratings

GeoGuessr Steam Edition, a newly launched adaptation of one of the world’s most popular browser games, made its debut on May 8—and it didn’t take long to earn an unfortunate title: 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 a wide array of customization features that allow users to control everything from their opponents and map selections to environment settings—like urban or rural areas—and even restrict movement options such as panning, zooming, or moving entirely (*No Movement Pan Zoom mode*, or NMPZ). Additionally, the platform thrives on a vibrant library of community-created maps, making every round feel fresh and unique.

Unfortunately, the Steam edition hasn't lived up to those expectations. Out of more than 3,000 user reviews left since its release last Wednesday, a staggering 84% are negative. Players have expressed widespread dissatisfaction with the free-to-play model, which feels restrictive compared to the browser version, and the limited gameplay options available at launch.

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

Beyond monetization concerns, many players are frustrated by several key limitations. For instance, once you link your browser-based GeoGuessr account to your Steam profile, you cannot unlink it, nor can you log out of the Steam version independently. Solo practice is also unavailable, meaning players can’t refine their skills offline. The free Amateur Mode appears to be filled with bots rather than real players, further detracting from the experience. Perhaps most surprisingly, any paid subscriptions or unlocked features in the browser version do not carry over to the Steam edition.

GeoGuessr does attempt to clarify these restrictions upfront. In its FAQs, the developer notes that owning a subscription for the browser version doesn’t automatically grant full access to the Steam Edition unless you hold an Elite Yearly subscription. Unlike the browser game, which requires a recurring annual payment, the Steam Edition's "Steam Pass" is a one-time purchase granting full access for one year. It's also clearly labeled as an Early Access title, signaling room for improvement and expansion based on player feedback.

Despite this transparency, the monetization strategy and feature limitations have caught many players off guard, as evidenced by ongoing discussions on Steam forums and the GeoGuessr subreddit.

Although marketed as free-to-play, GeoGuessr Steam offers minimal free content—likely less than an hour’s worth for most players. At launch, only one mode, Duels (supposedly against other human players), is playable, and players are restricted to the Amateur Division league. To unlock higher ranks or additional modes, players must pay for a $2.50 monthly plan—which isn't billed monthly but instead requires a lump sum of $30 upfront for a year’s access.

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

To clarify, the browser edition isn’t free either. While users can play up to three rounds per day without paying, unlocking all modes and features requires a subscription. Options include Pro Basic ($2.49/month), Pro Unlimited ($2.99/month), or Pro Elite ($4.99/month). Only the latter two tiers provide access to the Steam Edition.

In an exclusive statement to IGN, GeoGuessr expressed enthusiasm about bringing the game to Steam, calling it “a highly requested addition” by its community. The company explained that this move aligns with its mission to let players explore the world across platforms. It also highlighted new possibilities like Steam friend integration and enhanced anti-cheat capabilities, both of which are critical to maintaining fair gameplay.

Cheating has long been a persistent issue in the browser version, where some players exploit tools like Google Maps despite strict rules against such behavior. The Steam platform may offer better infrastructure to help combat these issues and restore integrity to competitive matches.

“This is a major milestone for us, and also just the beginning,” said Tomas Jonson, head of marketing at GeoGuessr. He noted that the game is currently in Early Access and that the team is committed to improving both free and paid experiences over time. Much of the initial feedback centered around the subscription-based monetization model, with many players hoping for a one-time purchase option instead.

Jonson explained that due to the ongoing costs associated with using Google Street View data—GeoGuessr’s core gameplay mechanic—the monetization structure mirrors the existing browser game. However, he pointed out one notable difference: the Steam Pass is a non-recurring yearly purchase, offering full access for twelve months.

According to the developers, the Steam version will remain in Early Access for *at least six months*. During this time, they plan to introduce new modes, maps, and competitive features while refining the overall experience based on direct player input.

“We really appreciate the high engagement and all the player feedback we have received so far. We’ll continue listening closely and working with the community as we further develop the Steam Edition,” Jonson concluded.