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GeoGuessr Steam Edition, a reimagined version of the immensely popular browser game, was released on Steam on May 8. Despite its recent launch, it has quickly become the second-worst rated game of all time on the platform. The original browser version of GeoGuessr has captivated 85 million players worldwide with its extensive customization options. Players can choose their opponents, select specific maps, decide on urban or rural settings, limit spawns to particular regions, and toggle movement, panning, and zooming capabilities, including the no-movement, no-pan, no-zoom (NMPZ) mode. Additionally, the browser game offers a rich selection of community-created custom maps.
However, the Steam version has received overwhelmingly negative feedback, with 84% of the over 3,000 user reviews being negative as of May 13. The primary grievances include the game's monetization system and the significant reduction in gameplay options compared to the browser version.
Just 16% of user reviews are positive as of May 13. Image credit: Steam / GeoGuessr.
Several issues have been highlighted by the community. Players cannot unlink their browser GeoGuessr account from their Steam account, nor can they log out of the Steam version. Solo play for practice is unavailable, and the free amateur mode seems to be populated with bots rather than real players. Additionally, even if players pay for features on the browser version, these do not transfer to the Steam edition.
GeoGuessr's developers have addressed these concerns in their FAQs, noting that a browser subscription does not automatically grant full access to the Steam Edition, except for those with an Elite Yearly subscription. The Steam Edition is available as an early access title, allowing the developers to refine gameplay, introduce new features, and improve the player experience based on direct feedback.
Despite being labeled as free-to-play, the Steam version offers limited content, with only the Duels mode available in the Amateur Division. To access higher ranks, players must purchase a $30 one-off payment for a year-long Steam Pass. In contrast, the browser version, while offering three free rounds daily, requires a subscription to unlock all modes, ranging from $2.49 to $4.99 per month, with the higher tiers including Steam access.
GeoGuessr's three premium plans for its browser game. Image credit: GeoGuessr.
In a statement to IGN, GeoGuessr expressed excitement about bringing the game to Steam, a move long requested by the community. The developers highlighted the benefits of using Steam's platform, such as connecting with friends and enhancing anti-cheat measures, which are crucial due to the prevalence of cheating in the browser version.
Tomas Jonson, head of marketing at GeoGuessr, acknowledged the feedback regarding the game's monetization and expressed a desire for a one-time purchase model. However, due to ongoing costs associated with Google Street View data, the Steam edition follows a model similar to the browser game, 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 they will introduce new features, modes, maps, and competitive elements. The developers are committed to working closely with the community to enhance both the free and paid experiences on Steam.
