Across the internet, enthusiasts are foaming at the mouth to post their lists of the top releases of 2025. Yet, where are the disasters, the underperformers? Let's take a momentary detour to examine the absolute worst games of the year, based on review aggregator Metacritic. Could each of these games truly as terrible as the reviews suggest? We shall see.
10. Switch 2's Welcome Tour
Aggregate Score: 54/100, Audience Score: 3.4/10
First impressions to this tech demo were colored by its $9.99 price tag, with many feeling cheesed off it wasn't a complimentary title like some other console launches. Critical opinion was quite mixed, from scathing critiques to somewhat forgiving appraisals that noted the delightful software itself. In spite of the controversy, the title proved to be a surprisingly robust commercial performer during its launch month.
9. Rennsport
Aggregate Score: 53/100, User Score: 3.2/10
Billed as "not just a racing game," this simulation from European developers received overwhelmingly poor reviews. The consensus was that the game was lacking in almost every category, notably in a year packed with stellar racing experiences. In the eyes of critics, this disappointing sim was best left unplayed.
8. Bubsy in: The Purrfect Collection
Aggregate Score: 53/100, Audience Score: 8.6/10
Before we start: the confusing colon usage is a notable point of contention. This compilation of SNES and PS1 mascot platformers features a "attitude"-filled feline known for constant jokes. Reviewers noted that these games were not good to begin with and feel dated with age. The surprisingly strong user score stands as a peculiar anomaly to the Metascore.
7. Hunter x Hunter Fighting Game
Metascore: 53, User Score: 3.5
This anime-inspired fighting game was met with significant backlash from both professionals and players. Issues included a limited fighter lineup and a minimal offering of gameplay modes. Fan reaction was particularly vitriolic, with some expressing a desire that the title's flop would serve as a lesson for future projects.
6. Riders Vs Dogoos
Aggregate Score: 51, User Score: 5.3
A part of the anime-style Hyperdimension Neptunia series, this motorcycle action game tasks players with gathering slime-like creatures. Critics argued that its goal to channel a rolling-collection feel was unsuccessful, coming across as more of a low-effort product than a substantial addition to the franchise. Its short length combined with a $40 price tag seemed like a bold choice.
5. Captain Blood
Aggregate Score: 50, User Score: 5.3
This title is a resurrected relic from the past, launched after a very long time in legal limbo. The team behind it made the decision to release the game as an original artifact of its time, accepting that contemporary players might dislike its old-school mechanics. As such, many reviews concluded that the fascinating story of its journey was more interesting than the actual gameplay.
4. Scar-Lead
Aggregate Score: 44, Audience Score: 2.4
This anime-styled third-person shooter drawing from games like *Returnal* disappointed with critics. Frequent criticisms were uninspired foes, repetitive levels, and a forgettable story. A controversial mechanic involving the character's attire was widely panned and undermined the game's enjoyment.
3. Paramedic Simulator
Metascore: 44, User Score: 4.9
Think of the strategic surgery games of the past, then take out the compelling story. That, according to reviews, is pretty much *Ambulance Life*. Reviewers found the emergency response sections to be tedious and repetitive, and the story's portrayal of mental health topics was criticized as being insensitive. The overall experience was deemed not very compelling.
2. Tamagotchi Plaza
Aggregate Score: 43, User Score: 5.8
This shift away from the classic digital companion formula transforms the franchise into a town-management title. The result, according to critics, was a unsatisfying assortment of repetitive tasks that quickly grew tiresome. Some reviews went so far as to declare it one of the most disappointing titles available on its platform, pointing to a complete absence of engaging content.
1. MindsEye
Metascore: 37, User Score: 2.5
Positioned as a high-profile open-world action game from a studio led by well-known figures, *MindsEye* was a notable commercial failure. Reviews heavily criticized its lousy combat, dull missions, and a plethora of game-breaking glitches. Many found it to be a significant step back compared to previous-generation games in the action genre. Amidst the overwhelming criticism, a few of optimistic players found fun in the experience, offering a rare contrast.
