Across the internet, gamers are foaming at the mouth to post their rankings of the top releases of 2025. However, what of the flops, the underperformers? We'll take a momentary detour to recognize the absolute worst games of the year, as determined by the critical consensus on Metacritic. Are all of these games truly as terrible as the reviews suggest? Here is the list.
10. Nintendo Switch 2 Welcome Tour
Aggregate Score: 54/100, User Score: 3.4/10
First impressions to this pack-in experience were heavily influenced by its $9.99 price tag, with many feeling cheesed off it wasn't a complimentary title like competing console launches. Critical opinion was quite mixed, from "crushing disappointment" to slightly kinder reviews that praised the delightful software underneath the controversy. In spite of the grumbling, the title proved to be a notable commercial performer during its launch month.
9. Rennsport
Metascore: 53/100, User Score: 3.2/10
Marketed as "beyond a racing game," this driving sim from studios in Germany and Poland was met with largely negative reviews. Critics noted that the game felt unfinished in almost every category, especially in a year featuring excellent racing titles. For many, this disappointing sim was advised to be left on the shelf.
8. Bubsy's Purrfect Collection
Metascore: 53/100, User Score: 8.6/10
Before we start: the irritating title grammar is a silly point of contention. This collection of 1990s-era platforming games showcases a "attitude"-filled feline known for constant quips. The consensus was that these games were mediocre originally and haven't gotten better with age. The notably positive user score remains a baffling contrast to the Metascore.
7. Nen x Impact
Aggregate Score: 53, User Score: 3.5
This *Hunter x Hunter* fighting game faced harsh criticism from both reviewers and the dedicated community. Issues included a limited fighter lineup and a dearth of content. Fan reaction was notably vitriolic, with some expressing a wish that the title's poor performance would have consequences for future projects.
6. Riders Vs Dogoos
Aggregate Score: 51, User Score: 5.3
A part of the quirky Hyperdimension Neptunia series, this motorcycle action game tasks players with gathering cute monsters. The assessment was that its attempt to channel a unique experience ultimately fell flat, coming across as more of a quick spin-off than a meaningful addition to the franchise. Its 3-hour duration combined with a $40 price tag raised eyebrows.
5. Captain Blood
Aggregate Score: 50, Audience Score: 5.3
This title is a resurrected relic from the past, launched after nearly two decades in development hell. The developers opted to release the game as an original product of its time, fully aware that contemporary players might not appreciate its dated design. As such, many reviews noted that the tale of its resurrection was more interesting than the actual gameplay.
4. Scar-Lead Salvation
Aggregate Score: 44, User Score: 2.4
This anime-art roguelike shooter inspired by games like *Returnal* disappointed with critics. The main issues included repetitive adversaries, samey environments, and a forgettable story. A controversial mechanic involving the outfit degradation was universally disliked and undermined the game's potential charm.
3. Ambulance Life
Aggregate Score: 44, Audience Score: 4.9
Think of the strategic medical sims of the past, then remove the memorable characters. That, according to reviews, is essentially *Ambulance Life*. Critics found the ambulance-driving sequences to be monotonous, and the narrative's handling of serious themes was criticized as being tone-deaf. The overall experience was deemed a missed opportunity.
2. Tamagotchi Plaza
Metascore: 43, User 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 series of repetitive tasks that very soon became boring. Some reviews went so far as to label it one of the worst titles available on its platform, pointing to a dearth of engaging content.
1. MindsEye
Metascore: 37, User Score: 2.5
Arriving as a blockbuster open-world action game from a team featuring experienced developers, *MindsEye* was a spectacular critical flop. Reviews savaged its weak action, dull missions, and a host of game-breaking glitches. Several found it to be a regression compared to much older games in the same genre. Amidst the overwhelming criticism, a tiny number of fans found value in the experience, offering a distinct contrast.