At every turn, fans are foaming at the mouth to post their selections of the greatest titles of 2025. However, what of the stinkers, the underperformers? We'll take a moment to recognize the absolute worst games of the year, based on the aggregate scores from Metacritic. Are all of these games as disappointing as the reviews suggest? Here is the list.
10. Switch 2's Welcome Tour
Aggregate Score: 54/100, User Score: 3.4/10
The early response to this showcase title were colored by its $9.99 price tag, with many voicing frustration it wasn't a bundled game like similar console launches. Reviewer sentiment varied dramatically, from "crushing disappointment" to more generous takes that noted the polished software underneath the controversy. Despite the grumbling, the title proved to be a surprisingly robust commercial performer during its launch month.
9. Rennsport
Metascore: 53/100, Audience Score: 3.2/10
Billed as "beyond a racing game," this simulation from Competition Company and Teyon received largely negative reviews. Critics noted that the game was lacking in key areas, particularly in a year featuring excellent racing experiences. Ultimately, this disappointing sim was advised to be left in the garage.
8. The Purrfect Bubsy Collection
Metascore: 53/100, User Score: 8.6/10
To begin with: the awkward title grammar is a minor point of contention. This compilation of SNES and PS1 platforming games showcases a sarcastic feline known for constant hacky one-liners. Reviewers noted that these games were not good to begin with and haven't gotten better with age. The improbably high user score is a peculiar anomaly to the professional reviews.
7. Hunter x Hunter Fighting Game
Metascore: 53, User Score: 3.5
This manga-based fighting game faced harsh criticism from both professionals and the dedicated community. Complaints centered on a thin roster of characters and a minimal offering of features. Player sentiment was especially harsh, with some stating a wish that the title's flop would have consequences for similar releases.
6. Riders Vs Dogoos
Aggregate Score: 51, User Score: 5.3
A part of the niche Hyperdimension Neptunia series, this vehicle combat game tasks players with gathering Dogoos. Critics argued that its effort to recreate a rolling-collection gameplay loop ultimately fell flat, coming across as more of a quick spin-off than a substantial addition to the franchise. Its brief runtime combined with a $40 price tag was criticized.
5. Captain Blood
Metascore: 50, User Score: 5.3
This title is a piece of lost media from the past, seeing the light of day after years and years in production delays. The team behind it opted to keep the game as an period-accurate artifact of its time, fully aware that modern gamers might not appreciate its retro feel. As such, many reviews noted that the tale of its development was far richer than the end product.
4. Scar-Lead
Aggregate Score: 44, User Score: 2.4
This anime-styled action game drawing from games like *Returnal* failed to impress with critics. Frequent criticisms were bland enemy design, monotonous stage design, and a unengaging plot. A controversial mechanic involving the protagonist's clothing was universally disliked and took away from the game's overall experience.
3. Ambulance Life
Aggregate Score: 44, User Score: 4.9
Recall the engaging surgery games of the past, then remove the satisfying gameplay. That, according to reviews, is pretty much *Ambulance Life*. Critics found the ambulance-driving sequences to be monotonous, and the story's portrayal of its subject matter was criticized as being poorly executed. The overall experience was deemed a missed opportunity.
2. Tamagotchi Plaza
Aggregate Score: 43, Audience Score: 5.8
This new direction for the classic virtual pet formula transforms the franchise into a town-management title. The result, per critics, was a dull series of repetitive tasks that rapidly grew tiresome. Some reviews went so far as to label it one of the lowest-quality titles available on its platform, citing a complete absence of engaging content.
1. MindsEye
Metascore: 37, Audience Score: 2.5
Arriving as a blockbuster open-world action game from a team featuring experienced developers, *MindsEye* was a spectacular disappointment. Reviews heavily criticized its lousy combat, dull missions, and a host of game-breaking glitches. Many found it to be a downgrade compared to much older games in the similar style. Amidst the overwhelming criticism, a few of optimistic players found fun in the experience, serving as a lonely vote of confidence.
