At every turn, fans are quick to share their selections of the best releases of 2025. However, what of the disasters, the underperformers? It's time to take a moment to examine the absolute worst games of the year, according to the aggregate scores from Metacritic. Are all of these games as disappointing as their scores 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 voicing frustration it wasn't a bundled game like some other console launches. Critical opinion varied dramatically, from "crushing disappointment" to somewhat forgiving appraisals that praised the polished software itself. Regardless of the debate, the title proved to be a notable digital seller during its launch month.
9. Rennsport
Aggregate Score: 53/100, User Score: 3.2/10
Billed as "not just a racing game," this driving sim from studios in Germany and Poland was met with overwhelmingly poor reviews. Reviews pointed out that the game was lacking in key areas, notably in a year packed with excellent racing experiences. For many, this sputtering stinker was advised to be left in the garage.
8. Bubsy's Purrfect Collection
Metascore: 53/100, Audience Score: 8.6/10
Before we start: the irritating punctuation is a notable annoyance. This collection of SNES and PS1 Bubsy titles features a sarcastic feline known for non-stop jokes. The consensus was that these games were mediocre to begin with and haven't gotten better with age. The notably positive user score stands as a baffling oddity to the professional reviews.
7. Hunter x Hunter: Nen x Impact
Aggregate Score: 53, User Score: 3.5
This anime-inspired fighting game faced harsh criticism from both reviewers and players. Complaints centered on a thin fighter lineup and a severe lack of gameplay modes. Player sentiment was especially harsh, with some voicing a desire that the title's failure would serve as a lesson for the developers.
6. Neptunia Motorcycle Game
Aggregate Score: 51, Audience Score: 5.3
Based on the anime-style Hyperdimension Neptunia series, this vehicle combat game tasks players with collecting slime-like creatures. Critics argued that its goal to channel a rolling-collection feel didn't land, coming across as more of a quick spin-off than a substantial Neptunia game. Its short length combined with a $40 price tag seemed like a bold choice.
5. Captain Blood
Metascore: 50, User Score: 5.3
This title is a curious artifact from the Xbox era, launched after a very long time in production delays. The developers made the decision to release the game as an period-accurate product of its time, fully aware that contemporary players might criticize its dated design. As such, many reviews concluded that the fascinating story of its development was more interesting than the game itself.
4. Scar-Lead
Aggregate Score: 44, User Score: 2.4
This anime-art action game drawing from games like *Returnal* fell flat with critics. The main issues included bland enemy design, repetitive levels, and a unengaging plot. A controversial mechanic involving the protagonist's clothing was seen as adding nothing and undermined the game's enjoyment.
3. Ambulance Life: A Paramedic Simulator
Metascore: 44, Audience Score: 4.9
Recall the strategic surgery games of the past, then remove the satisfying gameplay. That, according to reviews, is roughly *Ambulance Life*. Critics found the core gameplay loop to be monotonous, and the treatment of its subject matter was criticized as being insensitive. The overall experience was deemed not very compelling.
2. Tamagotchi Plaza
Aggregate Score: 43, User Score: 5.8
This departure from the classic virtual pet formula turns the franchise into a town-management title. The result, according to critics, was a dull series of simple minigames that very soon grew tiresome. Some reviews went so far as to label it one of the most disappointing titles available on its platform, citing a complete absence of depth.
1. MindsEye
Aggregate Score: 37, Audience Score: 2.5
Arriving as a high-profile open-world action game from a team featuring well-known figures, *MindsEye* was a spectacular critical flop. Reviews universally panned its lousy combat, uninspired storytelling, and a host of technical problems. Several found it to be a significant step back compared to decades-old games in the same genre. Amidst the sea of negativity, a tiny number of fans found value in the experience, serving as a lonely contrast.
