GeoGuessr Exits Saudi Esports World Cup Over Criticism

GeoGuessr has withdrawn from the Esports World Cup following backlash from players and map creators regarding the event's controversial Saudi Arabian venue this summer.

With 85 million players, GeoGuessr has become a phenomenon - a geography-based game that challenges users to identify random global locations. The platform offers extensive customization through both developer and community-created options, allowing players to select opponents, map preferences (urban/rural), geographical restrictions, and movement mechanics (including the popular "No Moving, Panning, or Zooming" NMPZ mode). Its robust competitive ecosystem has established it as an esports mainstay.

Community Backlash Sparks Blackout Protest

On May 22, prominent figure Zemmip - representing many of GeoGuessr's top map creators - coordinated a "blackout" by making popular maps unplayable. The protest targeted the company's participation in Saudi Arabia's Esports World Cup qualifying tournament.

"The Saudi government systematically oppresses women, LGBTQ individuals, religious minorities, political dissidents and migrant workers through discrimination, imprisonment, torture and executions," Zemmip stated on GeoGuessr's subreddit. "By participating in this event, GeoGuessr is enabling Saudi Arabia's sportswashing campaign to distract from these human rights violations."

The blackout disabled numerous competition-essential maps and will continue "until GeoGuessr cancels its Saudi events and commits to avoiding the country while its oppressive policies persist."

Company Reverses Decision After Community Outcry

As confused players flooded forums questioning why their maps were inaccessible, CEO Daniel Antell announced the withdrawal on May 22: "While we initially saw this as an opportunity to engage Middle Eastern players and promote global exploration, our community has clearly stated this decision contradicts our values. When you tell us we're wrong, we listen."

The company will now redesign its wildcard qualification system. Community response was overwhelmingly positive, with one top Reddit comment praising: "Now that's a 5K" - referencing the game's maximum accuracy score.

Ongoing Controversies Beyond Saudi Participation

Despite GeoGuessr's withdrawal, numerous major publishers including Dota 2, Valorant and League of Legends still plan to attend July's event.

The company simultaneously faces criticism regarding its recent Steam launch, which initially ranked among the platform's worst-reviewed games. Players criticized missing features including:

• No single-player practice mode
• Free modes allegedly dominated by bots
• No account synchronization between browser and Steam versions