GeoGuessr Pulls Out of Esports World Cup in Saudi Arabia After Fan and Creator Backlash: 'When You Tell Us We’ve Got It Wrong, We Take It Seriously'

GeoGuessr pulled out of the Esports World Cup after facing widespread backlash over hosting an event in Saudi Arabia, where the company is accused of supporting human rights abuses. The game's success, with its extensive customization options and community-driven maps, drew criticism from players and map creators, who staged a "blackout" to protest GeoGuessr's involvement. The company acknowledged the community's concerns and announced its withdrawal, emphasizing its commitment to being a community-first title while addressing the ethical implications of its decision. Meanwhile, other esports games like Dota 2 and Apex Legends are still participating in the event.