GeoGuessr Steam Edition launched on May 8 as a platform adaptation of the immensely popular browser-based geography game, but quickly earned an unfortunate distinction - it's currently Steam's second-lowest rated title ever.

The original browser version enjoys massive success with 85 million players, offering extensive customization including map selection, urban/rural preferences, regional restrictions, and movement controls - along with countless community-created maps.

The Steam port tells a different story. With over 3,000 reviews posted since launch, 84% are negative, primarily criticizing aggressive monetization and severe feature limitations compared to the browser version.

Frustrations extend beyond missing features. Players report disturbing account management issues - once linking browser and Steam accounts, there's no way to unlink them or even log out. Offline practice isn't an option, and the free amateur mode appears flooded with bots rather than human opponents.

Perhaps most infuriating for existing subscribers, browser version purchases don't carry over unless players hold the premium Elite Yearly subscription. The Steam edition currently offers just one game mode (Duels) and restricts free players to the lowest league tier.

While marketed as free-to-play, Steam users quickly exhaust the minimal content within an hour. Full access requires a $30 annual payment (described as a "one-time purchase"), contrasting with the browser version's three free daily plays and flexible subscription options.

Tomas Jonson, Head of Marketing, acknowledges player concerns in a statement to IGN: "This is a major milestone for us, and also just the beginning... We're committed to expanding and improving both the free and paid experiences over time." He cites ongoing Google Street View licensing costs as justification for the subscription model.

The developers highlight potential advantages of the Steam version, including enhanced anti-cheat measures and social features. However, with promised improvements spread across "at least six months" of Early Access, disappointed players argue the May 8 launch was premature.

"We really appreciate the high engagement and all the player feedback," Jonson concluded, emphasizing plans to add modes, maps, and competitive features based on community input.