GeoGuessr Responds to Feedback Amid Steam Edition's Plunge to Near-Bottom Rating

GeoGuessr Steam Edition, a reimagined version of one of the world’s most beloved browser games, launched on May 8 to much anticipation. However, it has quickly become the second-worst rated game of all time on Steam.

The original browser-based GeoGuessr has enjoyed tremendous success, amassing over 85 million players worldwide. Its appeal lies in its rich customization features—allowing players to control everything from map selection and spawn locations (urban or rural), to movement restrictions like NMPZ (No Movement, Panning, or Zooming), and even access to an expansive library of community-created maps.

Despite this strong foundation, the Steam version has received a harsh reception. Of the more than 3,000 user reviews posted since launch, 84% are negative. The primary complaints center around the game's monetization model and the significant lack of gameplay options compared to the browser edition.

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

Player dissatisfaction extends beyond just content limitations. Once users link their browser GeoGuessr account with the Steam version, they are unable to unlink it—or even log out. Solo practice is not supported, and the free Amateur Mode appears to be populated largely by bots rather than real players. Perhaps most controversially, unlocking premium features via a paid subscription in the browser version does not grant access to the same benefits in the Steam Edition.

To its credit, GeoGuessr clearly states these limitations. According to its FAQs, "having a GeoGuessr browser subscription does not grant you full access to the GeoGuessr Steam Edition unless you have an Elite Yearly subscription." Additionally, unlike the browser game—which requires a recurring annual payment—the Steam Edition offers a "one-time purchase" Steam Pass for full access over the course of a year.

The game is also labeled as an Early Access title, giving the developers room to refine gameplay, introduce new features, and improve the player experience through direct feedback.

Still, many players feel misled by the monetization structure and limited feature set. While marketed as free-to-play, the Steam version offers very little in terms of free content—likely less than an hour's worth—including only one mode, Duels, and a single league: Amateur Division. To unlock higher ranks or additional modes, players must pay a $30 upfront fee for the Steam Pass—there is no monthly billing option.

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

It's important to note that the browser version isn't fully free either. Players can play up to three rounds per day at no cost, but full access requires a subscription to one of three tiers: Pro Basic ($2.49/month), Pro Unlimited ($2.99/month), or Pro Elite ($4.99/month). Only the latter two subscriptions include access to the Steam Edition.

In response to criticism, GeoGuessr released an exclusive statement to IGN, expressing excitement about launching on Steam—a move long requested by the community. The company emphasized that bringing the game to Steam aligns with its mission to make global exploration accessible across platforms. It also highlighted potential benefits such as easier friend connectivity and improved anti-cheat capabilities.

Anti-cheat functionality is especially critical given the prevalence of cheating in the browser version, where players often exploit tools like Google Maps despite clear rule violations.

“This is a major milestone for us, and also just the beginning,” said Tomas Jonson, head of marketing at GeoGuessr. “The game is currently in Early Access, and we’re committed to expanding and improving both the free and paid experiences over time. Much of the feedback so far has centered around our monetization approach, with many players preferring a one-time purchase model.”

Jonson explained that due to ongoing costs tied to Google Street View data—which scales based on the number of games played—the Steam edition uses a monetization model similar to the browser version. The key difference? The Steam Pass is a non-recurring yearly purchase.

According to the developer, the Steam version will remain in Early Access for at least six months, during which time new features will be introduced and the overall experience refined using direct player input. GeoGuessr promises to expand the game with additional modes, maps, and competitive features.

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