GeoGuessr Steam Edition, a Steam reimagining of one of the world's best-loved browser games, was released on May 8, but it has quickly become the second-worst rated game of all time on Steam. The browser version of GeoGuessr has been tremendously successful, attracting 85 million players with a vast array of customization options. Players can tailor their experience by choosing opponents, selecting specific maps, deciding between urban or rural settings, restricting spawns to certain geographical regions, and toggling movement, panning, or zooming capabilities—including the option for no movement, panning, or zooming (NMPZ). The browser version also boasts a rich collection of community-created custom maps.

However, the Steam version has received overwhelmingly negative feedback. Out of over 3,000 user reviews left since its launch on May 8, a staggering 84% are negative. Players are primarily frustrated with the game's monetization system and the significant reduction in gameplay options compared to the browser edition.

Just 16% of user reviews are positive as of May 13. Image credit: Steam / GeoGuessr. Beyond the monetization issues, several other aspects of the Steam version have irked fans. Linking a browser GeoGuessr account to a Steam account is permanent, with no option to unlink or log out. Solo play is unavailable, even for practice, and the free amateur mode appears to be populated mostly by bots rather than real players. Additionally, purchasing features for the browser version does not extend to the Steam edition.

GeoGuessr has addressed these concerns in its FAQs, stating that a browser subscription does not grant full access to the Steam Edition unless it's an Elite Yearly subscription. The Steam Edition's Steam Pass is a one-time purchase that provides a year of access, unlike the browser's annual payment model. The game is also marked as an early access title, allowing for gameplay refinement and the introduction of new features based on player feedback.

Despite these clarifications, the monetization model and lack of features have surprised and disappointed many players, as evident from discussions on Steam forums and GeoGuessr's subreddit. Although marketed as free-to-play, the Steam version offers less than an hour of free content, featuring only the Duels mode in the Amateur Division. To access higher ranks, players must purchase a $30 upfront payment for a $2.50 monthly subscription, with no other modes currently available.

GeoGuessr's browser game also requires payment for full access. While players can enjoy three free rounds daily, unlocking all modes necessitates a subscription to one of three premium tiers: Pro Basic at $2.49 a month, Pro Unlimited at $2.99 a month, or Pro Elite at $4.99 a month. Only the latter two tiers include free access to the Steam game.

In an exclusive statement to IGN, GeoGuessr expressed excitement about bringing the game to Steam, a long-requested feature by the community. The company highlighted the benefits of the Steam platform, such as connecting with Steam friends and implementing additional anti-cheat functionality, which is crucial for combating the cheating issues that have plagued the browser version.

Tomas Jonson, head of marketing at GeoGuessr, described the Steam launch as a "major milestone" and emphasized that the game is in Early Access, with plans to expand and improve both free and paid experiences. He acknowledged the feedback regarding the monetization model, with many players preferring a one-time purchase option. Jonson explained that the Steam edition's model is similar to the browser game's, necessitated by ongoing costs tied to Google Street View data usage, with the main difference being the non-recurring yearly purchase of the Steam Pass.

GeoGuessr plans to keep the Steam version in early access for at least six months, during which time it will introduce new features and ensure the best possible experience with direct player feedback. The company aims to expand the game with new modes, maps, and competitive features. Jonson concluded by expressing appreciation for the high engagement and feedback received so far, promising to continue working closely with the community to develop the Steam Edition further.