GeoGuessr Faces Backlash Over Steam Rating Drop

GeoGuessr Steam Edition, a Steam adaptation of the popular browser-based geography game, launched on May 8 but has already earned the dubious distinction of becoming Steam's second-worst rated game ever.

The original browser version of GeoGuessr enjoys massive success with 85 million players, offering extensive customization including map selection, urban/rural settings, regional restrictions, movement controls, and a wealth of community-created maps.

A Controversial Steam Transition

Since its Steam debut last Wednesday, the platform version has received over 3,000 reviews - with 84% being negative. Players primarily criticize the free-to-play title's monetization system and reduced feature set compared to its browser counterpart.

Additional complaints include:

• Permanent account linking between Steam and browser versions
• Inability to log out from Steam client
• No single-player practice mode
• Amateur mode appearing bot-filled
• Browser subscriptions not transferring to Steam (except Elite Yearly)

While GeoGuessr clearly communicates these limitations in its FAQs, the Steam community remains dissatisfied with the early access title's current state.

Limited Free Experience

The Steam edition offers minimal free content:

• Approximately one hour of gameplay
• Single game mode (Duels)
• Only Amateur Division access

Full access requires a $30 annual Steam Pass payment (equivalent to $2.50/month but charged upfront), with no other game modes currently available.

The browser version also employs a subscription model with three tiers:

• Pro Basic: $2.49/month
• Pro Unlimited: $2.99/month
• Pro Elite: $4.99/month

Developer Response

In an exclusive statement to IGN, GeoGuessr emphasized this Steam release as:

• A long-requested community feature
• A platform expansion opportunity with Steam-specific benefits like friend connectivity and enhanced anti-cheat
• An early access foundation for future improvements

Head of Marketing Tomas Jonson acknowledged player concerns about monetization while explaining the ongoing costs of Google Street View integration. The team plans to:

• Maintain early access for at least six months
• Introduce new modes, maps, and competitive features
• Consider feedback regarding payment models

Jonson concluded: "We appreciate the high engagement and will continue working closely with our community during development."