Everywhere you look, fans are eagerly sharing their rankings of the greatest releases of 2025. However, what of the stinkers, the low achievers? It's time to take a momentary detour to examine the absolute worst games of the year, based on the aggregate scores from Metacritic. Could each of these games as bad as their scores suggest? Here is the list.
10. Nintendo Switch 2 Welcome Tour
Aggregate Score: 54/100, Audience Score: 3.4/10
The early response to this showcase title were shaped by its $9.99 price tag, with many expressing disappointment it wasn't a free pack-in like some other console launches. Professional assessment spanned a wide spectrum, from harsh disappointment to somewhat forgiving takes that highlighted the polished software underneath the controversy. Regardless of the debate, the title proved to be a notable seller during its launch month.
9. Rennsport
Aggregate Score: 53/100, User Score: 3.2/10
Presented as "not just a racing game," this simulation from studios in Germany and Poland was met with pretty unanimous reviews. Critics noted that the game felt unfinished in nearly every way, notably in a year filled with stellar racing experiences. Ultimately, this disappointing sim was best left unplayed.
8. Bubsy in: The Purrfect Collection
Metascore: 53/100, Audience Score: 8.6/10
Before we start: the irritating punctuation is a minor strike against it. This collection of 1990s-era mascot platformers showcases a "attitude"-filled feline known for incessant quips. Reviewers noted that these games were not good originally and feel dated with age. The notably positive user score stands as a baffling oddity to the professional reviews.
7. Hunter x Hunter Fighting Game
Metascore: 53, User Score: 3.5
This anime-inspired fighter encountered widespread disappointment from both reviewers and fans. Complaints centered on a limited fighter lineup and a dearth of features. User reviews was notably harsh, with some expressing a desire that the title's poor performance would have consequences for future projects.
6. Neptunia Riders Vs Dogoos
Aggregate Score: 51, Audience Score: 5.3
A part of the niche Hyperdimension Neptunia series, this vehicle combat game tasks players with gathering cute monsters. Reviewers felt that its goal to recreate a unique experience was unsuccessful, coming across as more of a cash grab than a substantial Neptunia game. Its short length combined with a premium price was criticized.
5. Captain Blood
Metascore: 50, User Score: 5.3
This title is a curious artifact from the Xbox era, seeing the light of day after a very long time in production delays. The publishers made the decision to release the game as an period-accurate product of its time, accepting that modern gamers might criticize its retro feel. As such, many reviews remarked that the fascinating story of its resurrection was more interesting than the actual gameplay.
4. Scar-Lead Salvation
Aggregate Score: 44, Audience Score: 2.4
This anime-art roguelike shooter drawing from games like *Returnal* disappointed with critics. Frequent criticisms were uninspired foes, samey environments, and a unengaging plot. A controversial mechanic involving the outfit degradation was seen as adding nothing and detracted from the game's enjoyment.
3. Ambulance Life: A Paramedic Simulator
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 roughly *Ambulance Life*. Players found the ambulance-driving sequences to be tedious and repetitive, and the narrative's handling of mental health topics was criticized as being tone-deaf. The overall experience was deemed not very compelling.
2. Tamagotchi Plaza
Aggregate Score: 43, Audience Score: 5.8
This shift away from the classic digital companion formula transforms the franchise into a town-management title. The result, according to critics, was a vapid assortment of repetitive tasks that rapidly overstayed its welcome. Some reviews went so far as to call it one of the most disappointing titles available on its platform, citing a dearth of satisfying gameplay.
1. MindsEye
Metascore: 37, User Score: 2.5
Positioned as a major crime saga from a team featuring well-known figures, *MindsEye* was a catastrophic critical flop. Reviews savaged its lousy combat, boring plot, and a host of game-breaking glitches. Several found it to be a significant step back compared to much older games in the similar style. Despite the overwhelming criticism, a few of fans found fun in the experience, offering a rare counterpoint.
