GeoGuessr Responds to Criticism as Steam Version Nears Bottom Ratings on Valve's Platform

GeoGuessr Steam Edition, a reimagined version of the globally popular browser game, launched on May 8 and has already become the second-worst rated game of all time on Steam.

The original browser-based GeoGuessr has been a massive success, attracting over 85 million players worldwide. It offers extensive customization features, allowing users to personalize their gameplay experience by choosing maps, setting urban or rural environments, restricting regions, toggling movement controls — including the challenging No Move, Pan, or Zoom (NMPZ) mode — and accessing countless high-quality community-created maps.

However, since its release last Wednesday, the Steam edition has received over 3,000 user reviews, with a staggering 84% being negative. The main complaints center around the monetization model and the significant lack of gameplay features compared to the browser version.

As of May 13, only 16% of user reviews are positive. Image credit: Steam / GeoGuessr

Beyond the monetization concerns, players have raised other issues. Once you link your browser GeoGuessr account to your Steam account, there is no option to unlink them, and logging out of the Steam version is not possible. Solo practice play is unavailable, and the free Amateur Mode appears to be populated largely by bots rather than real players. Even more frustrating for some is that purchasing premium features in the browser version does not carry over to the Steam edition.

While these limitations are clearly outlined in the FAQs, the disconnect between player expectations and the current offering remains evident. GeoGuessr explains that a browser subscription does not grant full access to the Steam Edition unless you hold an Elite Yearly subscription. Additionally, unlike the browser version's recurring annual fee, the Steam Edition’s Steam Pass is a one-time purchase granting access for one year.

It’s also worth noting that the Steam Edition is labeled as an Early Access title, indicating it is still under development. According to the developers, this phase will allow them to refine gameplay, introduce new features, and enhance the overall experience based on direct player feedback.

Still, the response from the community has been harsh. Although marketed as free-to-play, GeoGuessr Steam offers what feels like less than an hour of free content — essentially a single session of Duels mode against either bots or human opponents — and locks progression behind a $2.50 monthly ($30 upfront) subscription. Without it, players remain stuck in the Amateur Division with no alternative modes available.

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

To clarify, the browser version isn’t free either. While casual players can enjoy up to three rounds per day at no cost, unlocking all features requires subscribing to one of three tiers: Pro Basic ($2.49/month), Pro Unlimited ($2.99/month), or Pro Elite ($4.99/month). Only those on the latter two plans receive full access to the Steam Edition.

In an exclusive statement to IGN, GeoGuessr expressed enthusiasm about launching on Steam, calling it a highly requested feature from the community. The move aligns with their goal of making global exploration accessible across platforms. They also highlighted potential benefits such as Steam friend integration and enhanced anti-cheat capabilities — a critical issue in the browser version, where cheating via Google or third-party tools has long been a concern.

“Bringing the game to Steam opens up exciting new possibilities,” said Tomas Jonson, Head of Marketing. “This is a major milestone for us — and just the beginning.”

He noted that while many players have voiced a preference for a one-time purchase model, the current system mirrors the browser edition’s due to ongoing licensing costs tied to Google Street View data. However, he emphasized that the Steam Pass is a non-recurring yearly payment, distinguishing it from the browser’s monthly billing structure.

Looking ahead, GeoGuessr estimates the Steam Edition will remain in Early Access for "at least six months," during which they plan to roll out new modes, maps, and competitive features. Their stated mission is to improve both free and paid experiences through continuous updates informed by community input.

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