Released on May 8, GeoGuessr Steam Edition—a reimagined Steam version of the beloved browser game—has already become Steam's second-worst rated game of all time.

The original browser version of GeoGuessr remains incredibly popular, with 85 million players and a wide range of customization options. Players can choose opponents, select map types, decide between urban or rural locations, limit regions, and control movement, panning, and zooming—or disable them entirely (NMPZ). There’s also a rich variety of community-created custom maps.

Since its launch last Wednesday, over 3,000 user reviews have been posted for the Steam version, 84% of which are negative. Most players criticize the free-to-play monetization and the significant lack of gameplay options compared to the browser edition.

But that’s not all. If you link your browser account to Steam, you can’t unlink it, nor can you log out of the Steam client. Solo play isn’t available, even for practice. The free amateur mode appears dominated by bots rather than real players. Perhaps most frustratingly, browser subscription benefits do not transfer to the Steam version.

GeoGuessr does clarify this in its FAQs: a browser subscription doesn’t grant full Steam access unless you have an Elite Yearly plan. Unlike the browser version, which uses recurring payments, the Steam Pass is a one-time yearly purchase. The game is also labeled as Early Access, allowing the developers to gather feedback and refine the experience.

Nevertheless, player reactions on Steam forums and Reddit show widespread surprise and frustration over the payment model and limited features.

Although marketed as free-to-play, the Steam Edition offers under an hour of free content, includes only one mode (Duels), and restricts players to the Amateur Division. To advance or access higher ranks, you need the $30 annual Steam Pass—there are no other modes available at launch.

It’s worth noting that the browser version isn’t free either. While three rounds per day are available at no cost, full access requires a subscription: Pro Basic ($2.49/month), Pro Unlimited ($2.99/month), or Pro Elite ($4.99/month). Only the top two tiers include the Steam Edition.

In a statement to IGN, GeoGuessr expressed excitement about bringing the game to Steam, a move long requested by players. The team highlighted benefits like connecting with Steam friends and improved anti-cheat measures.

Anti-cheat is a major concern for the GeoGuessr community. The browser game has struggled with cheaters using bots, exploits, or search engines, despite clear rules against it. Steam’s infrastructure may help address these issues.

“This is a major milestone for us, and also just the beginning,” said Head of Marketing Tomas Jonson. “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 been around the monetization of the game, with many wishing for a one-time purchase model.”

Because GeoGuessr relies on Google Street View data—with ongoing costs tied to usage—the Steam edition follows a monetization approach similar to the browser game, though the Steam Pass is a non-recurring yearly purchase.

GeoGuessr intends to keep the Steam version in Early Access for at least six months, introducing new modes, maps, and competitive features based on player feedback.

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