Across the internet, gamers are eagerly sharing their rankings of the best titles of 2025. However, what of the stinkers, the low achievers? We'll take a moment to recognize the absolute worst games of the year, according to the critical consensus on Metacritic. Are all of these games as disappointing as the reviews suggest? Here is the list.
10. Switch 2's Welcome Tour
Metascore: 54/100, User Score: 3.4/10
Initial reactions to this pack-in experience were heavily influenced by its $9.99 price tag, with many voicing frustration it wasn't a free pack-in like competing console launches. Reviewer sentiment was quite mixed, from harsh disappointment to slightly kinder takes that praised the delightful software itself. In spite of the controversy, the title proved to be a notable seller during its launch month.
9. Rennsport
Metascore: 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 largely negative reviews. Critics noted that the game fell short in almost every category, especially in a year filled with high-quality racing experiences. In the eyes of critics, this sputtering stinker was better off left on the shelf.
8. The Purrfect Bubsy Collection
Metascore: 53/100, Audience Score: 8.6/10
To begin with: the confusing colon usage is a minor annoyance. This collection of 1990s-era mascot platformers revives a "attitude"-filled feline known for constant jokes. The consensus was that these games were mediocre to begin with and have not improved with age. The notably positive user score remains a baffling anomaly to the Metascore.
7. Hunter x Hunter: Nen x Impact
Aggregate Score: 53, Audience Score: 3.5
This manga-based brawler faced significant backlash from both professionals and fans. Issues included a limited fighter lineup and a severe lack of content. Player sentiment was notably negative, with some stating a hope that the title's poor performance would have consequences for the developers.
6. Riders Vs Dogoos
Metascore: 51, User Score: 5.3
A part of the anime-style Hyperdimension Neptunia series, this bike-riding title tasks players with collecting Dogoos. Critics argued that its attempt to mimic a rolling-collection feel didn't land, coming across as more of a quick spin-off than a substantial series entry. Its 3-hour duration combined with a premium price raised eyebrows.
5. Captain Blood
Metascore: 50, User Score: 5.3
This title is a resurrected relic from the Xbox era, finally released after years and years in development hell. The publishers consciously chose to release the game as an period-accurate artifact of its time, fully aware that contemporary players might criticize its dated design. As such, many reviews concluded that the interesting history of its development was more interesting than the end product.
4. Salvation
Metascore: 44, Audience Score: 2.4
This anime-styled action game inspired by games like *Returnal* failed to impress with critics. Common complaints were repetitive adversaries, repetitive levels, and a snoozy narrative. A much-criticized system involving the protagonist's clothing was widely panned and detracted from the game's enjoyment.
3. Ambulance Life
Metascore: 44, User Score: 4.9
Imagine the strategic medical sims of the past, then remove the satisfying gameplay. That, according to reviews, is essentially *Ambulance Life*. Critics found the ambulance-driving sequences to be tedious and repetitive, and the narrative's handling of mental health topics was criticized as being insensitive. The overall experience was deemed largely unsatisfying.
2. Tamagotchi Plaza
Metascore: 43, Audience Score: 5.8
This new direction for the classic virtual pet formula makes the franchise into a minigame collection title. The result, based on critics, was a dull series of basic activities that very soon overstayed its welcome. Some reviews went so far as to declare it one of the most disappointing titles available on its platform, pointing to a complete absence of engaging content.
1. MindsEye
Aggregate Score: 37, Audience Score: 2.5
Arriving as a blockbuster open-world action game from a team featuring well-known figures, *MindsEye* was a spectacular disappointment. Reviews heavily criticized its poor shooting mechanics, dull missions, and a multitude of technical problems. Critics found it to be a downgrade compared to previous-generation games in the similar style. Amidst the sea of negativity, a few of positive user reviews found fun in the experience, providing a distinct contrast.
