At every turn, enthusiasts are quick to share their selections of the greatest releases of 2025. But what about the stinkers, the underperformers? We'll take a few moments to honor the absolute worst games of the year, based on review aggregator Metacritic. Could each of these games as disappointing as the ratings 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 competing console launches. Critical opinion varied dramatically, from scathing critiques to somewhat forgiving reviews that highlighted the polished software underneath the controversy. Regardless of the grumbling, the title proved to be a strong commercial performer during its launch month.
9. Rennsport
Aggregate Score: 53/100, User Score: 3.2/10
Marketed as "more than a racing game," this simulation from European developers was met with pretty unanimous reviews. Critics noted that the game fell short in nearly every way, notably in a year filled with high-quality racing titles. Ultimately, this sputtering stinker was advised to be left on the shelf.
8. Bubsy in: The Purrfect Collection
Aggregate Score: 53/100, Audience Score: 8.6/10
To begin with: the irritating punctuation is a silly annoyance. This anthology of SNES and PS1 mascot platformers showcases a sarcastic feline known for incessant hacky one-liners. Reviewers noted that these games haven't aged well to begin with and haven't gotten better with age. The notably positive user score is a peculiar anomaly to the professional reviews.
7. Nen x Impact
Metascore: 53, Audience Score: 3.5
This anime-inspired fighter encountered significant backlash from both professionals and fans. It was lambasted for a thin roster of characters and a dearth of features. User reviews was notably vitriolic, with some stating a wish that the title's flop would have consequences for the developers.
6. Riders Vs Dogoos
Metascore: 51, User Score: 5.3
A part of the quirky Hyperdimension Neptunia series, this motorcycle action game tasks players with rounding up cute monsters. The assessment was that its goal to recreate a unique feel was unsuccessful, coming across as more of a low-effort product than a substantial Neptunia game. Its 3-hour duration combined with a $40 price tag was criticized.
5. Captain Blood
Metascore: 50, User Score: 5.3
This title is a curious artifact from the past, launched after a very long time in production delays. The developers made the decision to keep the game as an authentic experience of its time, acknowledging that today's audiences might not appreciate its retro feel. As such, many reviews concluded that the fascinating story of its development was far richer than the end product.
4. Scar-Lead Salvation
Metascore: 44, Audience Score: 2.4
This anime-art third-person shooter drawing from games like *Returnal* fell flat with critics. The main issues were bland enemy design, repetitive levels, and a forgettable story. A controversial mechanic involving the outfit degradation was universally disliked and detracted from the game's potential charm.
3. Paramedic Simulator
Aggregate Score: 44, Audience Score: 4.9
Recall the engaging medical sims of the past, then take out the compelling story. That, according to reviews, is roughly *Ambulance Life*. Players found the core gameplay loop to be monotonous, and the narrative's handling of mental health topics was criticized as being insensitive. The overall experience was deemed a missed opportunity.
2. Tamagotchi Plaza
Aggregate Score: 43, User Score: 5.8
This departure from the classic digital companion formula makes the franchise into a shopping simulation title. The result, according to critics, was a vapid series of simple minigames that quickly overstayed its welcome. Some reviews went so far as to label it one of the lowest-quality titles available on its platform, pointing to a complete absence of engaging content.
1. MindsEye
Metascore: 37, Audience Score: 2.5
Intended to be a high-profile crime saga from a studio led by well-known figures, *MindsEye* was a notable disappointment. Reviews savaged its lousy combat, boring plot, and a host of horrendous bugs. Critics found it to be a downgrade compared to much older games in the similar style. Despite the overwhelming criticism, a small handful of positive user reviews found fun in the experience, offering a rare contrast.
