GeoGuessr Responds to Feedback as Steam Edition Nears Bottom of Valve's Ratings

GeoGuessr Steam Edition, the much-anticipated Steam version of the globally popular browser game, launched on May 8—and it has already become the second-worst rated game ever on Steam.

The original browser-based GeoGuessr has enjoyed tremendous success, attracting over 85 million players and offering a wide array of customization options. Players can control who they play against, choose map types, select urban or rural environments, restrict spawn regions, toggle movement and zooming capabilities—including the challenging No Move, Pan, or Zoom (NMPZ) mode—and enjoy thousands of custom maps created by the community.

However, since its Steam release just last week, the game has received over 3,000 user reviews—with 84% being negative. The majority of complaints center around the game’s monetization model and the severe lack of features compared to the browser version.

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

Player Frustrations Mount

One major issue is account integration. While players can link their browser GeoGuessr account to Steam, they cannot unlink it afterward, nor can they log out of the Steam version entirely—leaving many feeling locked in with no escape.

Additionally, solo practice is not supported, making skill improvement difficult. The free Amateur Mode appears to be filled with bots rather than real players. Perhaps most frustratingly, even those who have paid for premium features in the browser version find that these do not carry over to the Steam Edition.

What GeoGuessr Has Clarified

GeoGuessr does address some concerns in its FAQs, stating clearly that a browser subscription doesn’t grant full access to the Steam Edition unless you hold an Elite Yearly subscription. Unlike the browser edition—which bills annually—the Steam Edition's Steam Pass is a one-time purchase granting full access for one year.

It’s also labeled as an Early Access title, which means the developers intend to refine gameplay, introduce new features, and improve the experience based on direct player feedback.

Limited Free Content and Modes

Despite being labeled free-to-play, GeoGuessr Steam offers what many estimate to be less than an hour of free content. Only one mode—Duels—is available, and players are restricted to the Amateur Division league. To unlock higher ranks, additional modes, and more competitive features, players must pay for the $2.50 monthly subscription. However, this isn't billed monthly—it requires a $30 upfront payment for a full year.

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

Browser Game Also Has Paywalls

To clarify, the browser version of GeoGuessr isn’t free either. While unregistered users can play up to three rounds per day at no cost, unlocking all modes and features requires a subscription. There are three tiers: Pro Basic ($2.49/month), Pro Unlimited ($2.99/month), and Pro Elite ($4.99/month). Only the latter two include access to the Steam Edition.

GeoGuessr Responds

In a statement to IGN, GeoGuessr expressed enthusiasm about launching on Steam, calling it "a highly requested feature" from its community. They emphasized that the Steam launch aligns with their vision of enabling global exploration across platforms. Benefits such as Steam friend integration and enhanced anti-cheat measures were also highlighted.

Anti-cheat functionality is especially critical, as the browser version has long struggled with cheaters using third-party tools or search engines—despite clear violations of community rules. The Steam platform could help mitigate this issue through stricter enforcement and system-level protections.

Tomas Jonson, Head of Marketing, described the Steam release as “a major milestone—and just the beginning.” He acknowledged that much of the current feedback revolves around dissatisfaction with the recurring payment model, noting that many players would prefer a one-time purchase.

He explained that because GeoGuessr relies on Google Street View data—where costs scale with usage—the team opted for a monetization structure similar to the browser edition.

“The main difference,” he added, “is that the Steam Pass is a non-recurring yearly purchase.”

Looking Ahead

According to the developer, the Steam Edition will remain in Early Access for at least six months, during which time new features, modes, and competitive elements will be introduced. The official Steam page states that the goal is to “expand” the game with “new modes, maps, and competitive features.”

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