Across the internet, gamers are foaming at the mouth to post their lists of the top games of 2025. But what about the disasters, the low achievers? We'll take a momentary detour to examine the absolute worst games of the year, based on the critical consensus on Metacritic. Is every one of these games as bad as the ratings suggest? Here is the list.
10. Switch 2's Welcome Tour
Metascore: 54/100, User Score: 3.4/10
Initial reactions to this tech demo were shaped by its $9.99 price tag, with many feeling cheesed off it wasn't a free pack-in like competing console launches. Critical opinion varied dramatically, from "crushing disappointment" to slightly kinder appraisals that noted the polished software underneath the controversy. Despite the grumbling, the title proved to be a notable commercial performer during its launch month.
9. Rennsport
Metascore: 53/100, Audience Score: 3.2/10
Marketed as "not just a racing game," this driving sim from Competition Company and Teyon garnered overwhelmingly poor reviews. Critics noted that the game fell short in key areas, particularly in a year packed with excellent racing games. For many, this sputtering stinker was better off left on the shelf.
8. Bubsy's Purrfect Collection
Metascore: 53/100, User Score: 8.6/10
To begin with: the awkward punctuation is a minor point of contention. This compilation of SNES and PS1 mascot platformers revives a "attitude"-filled feline known for constant quips. Reviewers noted that these games were mediocre in their time and feel dated with age. The improbably high user score is a baffling oddity to the critical reception.
7. Hunter x Hunter: Nen x Impact
Aggregate Score: 53, User Score: 3.5
This manga-based fighting game encountered harsh criticism from both critics and fans. Complaints centered on a small fighter lineup and a minimal offering of features. Fan reaction was notably vitriolic, with some voicing a desire that the title's failure would be a warning for similar releases.
6. Riders Vs Dogoos
Metascore: 51, Audience Score: 5.3
A part of the anime-style Hyperdimension Neptunia series, this vehicle combat game tasks players with collecting slime-like creatures. Reviewers felt that its goal to mimic a *Katamari Damacy*-like gameplay loop ultimately fell flat, coming across as more of a quick spin-off than a meaningful Neptunia game. Its brief runtime combined with a premium price seemed like a bold choice.
5. Captain Blood
Metascore: 50, User Score: 5.3
This title is a curious artifact from the mid-2000s, launched after nearly two decades in legal limbo. The team behind it made the decision to preserve the game as an authentic product of its time, accepting that contemporary players might dislike its old-school mechanics. As such, many reviews remarked that the interesting history of its development was more compelling than the end product.
4. Scar-Lead
Aggregate Score: 44, User Score: 2.4
This anime-art third-person shooter modeled after games like *Returnal* fell flat with critics. The main issues centered on bland enemy design, samey environments, and a unengaging plot. A particular feature involving the protagonist's clothing was universally disliked and took away from the game's enjoyment.
3. Ambulance Life
Aggregate Score: 44, Audience Score: 4.9
Think of the strategic surgery games of the past, then take out the compelling story. That, according to reviews, is roughly *Ambulance Life*. Critics found the core gameplay loop to be a slog, and the treatment of serious themes was criticized as being poorly executed. The overall experience was deemed not very compelling.
2. Tamagotchi Plaza
Aggregate Score: 43, Audience Score: 5.8
This new direction for the classic virtual pet formula transforms the franchise into a shopping simulation title. The result, based on critics, was a vapid assortment of repetitive tasks that very soon grew tiresome. Some reviews went so far as to declare it one of the most disappointing titles available on its platform, noting a profound lack of satisfying gameplay.
1. MindsEye
Metascore: 37, User Score: 2.5
Intended to be a blockbuster open-world action game from a ex-Rockstar veteran's well-known figures, *MindsEye* was a spectacular disappointment. Reviews universally panned its weak action, dull missions, and a multitude of technical problems. Critics found it to be a downgrade compared to decades-old games in the same genre. Despite the sea of negativity, a few of fans found something to enjoy in the experience, serving as a distinct contrast.
