Everywhere you look, gamers are quick to share their selections of the top releases of 2025. Yet, where are the stinkers, the low achievers? We'll take a few moments to examine the absolute worst games of the year, as determined by the aggregate scores from Metacritic. Is every one of these games as disappointing as their scores suggest? Here is the list.
10. Switch 2's Welcome Tour
Metascore: 54/100, Audience Score: 3.4/10
First impressions to this pack-in experience were heavily influenced by its $9.99 price tag, with many expressing disappointment it wasn't a complimentary title like some other console launches. Professional assessment varied dramatically, from "crushing disappointment" to somewhat forgiving takes that praised the polished software underneath the controversy. Despite the controversy, the title proved to be a notable digital seller during its launch month.
9. Rennsport
Aggregate Score: 53/100, User Score: 3.2/10
Marketed as "more than a racing game," this driving sim from Competition Company and Teyon received largely negative reviews. Reviews pointed out that the game was lacking in nearly every way, especially in a year packed with high-quality racing experiences. For many, this underwhelming entry was advised to be left unplayed.
8. Bubsy in: The Purrfect Collection
Aggregate Score: 53/100, Audience Score: 8.6/10
To begin with: the confusing punctuation is a silly point of contention. This compilation of SNES and PS1 Bubsy titles showcases a rude feline known for incessant jokes. Critics observed that these games were mediocre originally and have not improved with age. The surprisingly strong user score remains a baffling oddity to the Metascore.
7. Hunter x Hunter: Nen x Impact
Metascore: 53, User Score: 3.5
This *Hunter x Hunter* brawler was met with widespread disappointment from both critics and fans. It was lambasted for a limited character selection and a severe lack of gameplay modes. Fan reaction was particularly vitriolic, with some stating a desire that the title's poor performance would have consequences for the developers.
6. Riders Vs Dogoos
Aggregate Score: 51, User Score: 5.3
Based on the quirky Hyperdimension Neptunia series, this motorcycle action game tasks players with rounding up Dogoos. Reviewers felt that its attempt to channel a *Katamari Damacy*-like feel didn't land, coming across as more of a quick spin-off than a meaningful series entry. Its brief runtime combined with a $40 price tag seemed like a bold choice.
5. Captain Blood
Metascore: 50, User Score: 5.3
This title is a piece of lost media from the past, launched after nearly two decades in development hell. The publishers made the decision to preserve the game as an period-accurate product of its time, accepting that today's audiences might criticize its old-school mechanics. As such, many reviews concluded that the interesting history of its journey was more interesting than the game itself.
4. Salvation
Metascore: 44, Audience Score: 2.4
This anime-styled third-person shooter modeled after games like *Returnal* disappointed with critics. Common complaints were bland enemy design, repetitive levels, and a unengaging plot. A particular feature involving the protagonist's clothing was universally disliked and detracted from the game's potential charm.
3. Ambulance Life: A Paramedic Simulator
Aggregate Score: 44, Audience Score: 4.9
Recall the engaging medical sims of the past, then strip away the satisfying gameplay. That, according to reviews, is pretty much *Ambulance Life*. Critics found the core gameplay loop 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 a missed opportunity.
2. Tamagotchi Plaza
Metascore: 43, User Score: 5.8
This departure from the classic digital companion formula makes the franchise into a minigame collection title. The result, based on critics, was a dull collection of simple minigames 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, citing a profound lack of depth.
1. MindsEye
Aggregate Score: 37, User Score: 2.5
Intended to be a major GTA-style title from a studio led by industry veterans, *MindsEye* was a catastrophic disappointment. Reviews savaged its lousy combat, dull missions, and a plethora of game-breaking glitches. Critics found it to be a significant step back compared to previous-generation games in the similar style. Among the overwhelming criticism, a tiny number of fans found value in the experience, offering a rare counterpoint.
