Everywhere you look, enthusiasts are eagerly sharing their rankings of the top releases of 2025. Yet, where are the stinkers, the underperformers? We'll take a moment to honor the absolute worst games of the year, as determined by the aggregate scores from Metacritic. Are all of these games as disappointing as the reviews suggest? We shall see.
10. Nintendo Switch 2 Welcome Tour
Metascore: 54/100, User Score: 3.4/10
The early response to this pack-in experience were shaped by its $9.99 price tag, with many expressing disappointment it wasn't a bundled game like some other console launches. Reviewer sentiment varied dramatically, from scathing critiques to somewhat forgiving takes that praised the delightful software itself. Despite the grumbling, the title proved to be a surprisingly robust commercial performer during its launch month.
9. Rennsport
Aggregate Score: 53/100, Audience Score: 3.2/10
Presented as "more than a racing game," this simulation from Competition Company and Teyon was met with largely negative reviews. The consensus was that the game was lacking in almost every category, particularly in a year featuring high-quality racing titles. For many, this underwhelming entry was advised to be left on the shelf.
8. Bubsy in: The Purrfect Collection
Aggregate Score: 53/100, User Score: 8.6/10
To begin with: the confusing colon usage is a minor point of contention. This anthology of 1990s-era platforming games showcases a rude feline known for non-stop hacky one-liners. The consensus was that these games were mediocre to begin with and haven't gotten better with age. The notably positive user score is a peculiar contrast to the professional reviews.
7. Hunter x Hunter Fighting Game
Metascore: 53, Audience Score: 3.5
This manga-based fighter was met with significant backlash from both professionals and players. Complaints centered on a limited character selection and a minimal offering of content. Fan reaction was especially negative, with some stating a hope that the title's flop would be a warning for the developers.
6. Riders Vs Dogoos
Metascore: 51, User Score: 5.3
A part of the niche Hyperdimension Neptunia series, this bike-riding title tasks players with rounding up cute monsters. Critics argued that its attempt to channel a *Katamari Damacy*-like experience was unsuccessful, coming across as more of a quick spin-off than a substantial addition to the franchise. Its 3-hour duration combined with a $40 price tag was criticized.
5. Captain Blood
Aggregate Score: 50, Audience Score: 5.3
This title is a resurrected relic from the Xbox era, finally released after years and years in development hell. The team behind it made the decision to release the game as an authentic experience of its time, acknowledging that contemporary players might dislike its retro feel. As such, many reviews remarked that the interesting history of its resurrection was far richer than the end product.
4. Scar-Lead Salvation
Metascore: 44, User Score: 2.4
This anime-styled third-person shooter drawing from games like *Returnal* disappointed with critics. Frequent criticisms were uninspired foes, samey environments, and a snoozy narrative. A particular feature involving the outfit degradation was seen as adding nothing and undermined the game's enjoyment.
3. Paramedic Simulator
Aggregate Score: 44, Audience Score: 4.9
Recall the tense surgery games of the past, then take out the compelling story. That, according to reviews, is roughly *Ambulance Life*. Reviewers found the emergency response sections to be tedious and repetitive, and the narrative's handling of its subject matter was criticized as being tone-deaf. The overall experience was deemed a missed opportunity.
2. Tamagotchi Plaza
Aggregate Score: 43, Audience Score: 5.8
This new direction for the classic digital companion formula transforms the franchise into a town-management title. The result, based on critics, was a vapid series of repetitive tasks that rapidly grew tiresome. Some reviews went so far as to label it one of the most disappointing titles available on its platform, citing a dearth of engaging content.
1. MindsEye
Metascore: 37, Audience Score: 2.5
Intended to be a major crime saga from a studio led by experienced developers, *MindsEye* was a spectacular commercial failure. Reviews universally panned its lousy combat, dull missions, and a plethora of horrendous bugs. Several found it to be a regression compared to decades-old games in the similar style. Despite the overwhelming criticism, a few of positive user reviews found value in the experience, serving as a lonely contrast.
