GeoGuessr Exits Saudi World Cup Amid Fan and Creator Outcry

GeoGuessr has officially pulled out of the Esports World Cup in Riyadh following backlash from players and map creators regarding the event's controversial location in Saudi Arabia. The decision came after a protest blackout by creators, voicing concerns over human rights violations in the country. The backlash highlighted the vast community of GeoGuessr, which boasts over 85 million users, and the partnership's potential to contribute to sportswashing through participation in the event. Following the community's outcry, GeoGuessr's CEO announced their withdrawal, emphasizing their commitment to the game's core values and community engagement.

GeoGuessr withdrew from the Esports World Cup due to backlash from the community, including map creators who protested the event's location in Saudi Arabia over severe human rights violations. The company listened to its community and decided that participation did not align with their values.

GeoGuessr, launched in 2013, has captivated players with its geography-based gameplay that challenges users to identify locations around the world based solely on visual clues. Its popularity has led to extensive customization options created by both the community and developers. However, the recent Steam release saw mixed reviews, with players frustrated by missing features typically expected in free-to-play games, further fueling community discussions surrounding the company's decisions.