Everywhere you look, gamers are quick to share their rankings of the top titles of 2025. However, what of the flops, the low achievers? Let's take a few moments to honor the absolute worst games of the year, according to review aggregator Metacritic. Could each of these games as disappointing as the ratings suggest? Let's find out.
10. Nintendo Switch 2 Welcome Tour
Aggregate Score: 54/100, User Score: 3.4/10
Initial reactions to this pack-in experience were heavily influenced by its $9.99 price tag, with many voicing frustration it wasn't a free pack-in like similar console launches. Reviewer sentiment was quite mixed, from "crushing disappointment" to somewhat forgiving takes that praised the delightful software itself. Regardless of the debate, the title proved to be a notable seller during its launch month.
9. Rennsport
Metascore: 53/100, Audience Score: 3.2/10
Presented as "beyond a racing game," this simulation from European developers garnered overwhelmingly poor reviews. Critics noted that the game felt unfinished in key areas, particularly in a year featuring excellent racing experiences. In the eyes of critics, this sputtering stinker was best left unplayed.
8. The Purrfect Bubsy Collection
Aggregate Score: 53/100, User Score: 8.6/10
To begin with: the irritating punctuation is a silly strike against it. This collection of retro platforming games showcases a "attitude"-filled feline known for incessant hacky one-liners. Reviewers noted that these games were mediocre in their time and feel dated with age. The notably positive user score stands as a baffling contrast to the critical reception.
7. Hunter x Hunter Fighting Game
Aggregate Score: 53, User Score: 3.5
This manga-based fighting game faced harsh criticism from both reviewers and fans. Complaints centered on a small fighter lineup and a minimal offering of features. Fan reaction was particularly vitriolic, with some stating a hope that the title's poor performance would be a warning for similar releases.
6. Riders Vs Dogoos
Aggregate Score: 51, Audience Score: 5.3
A part of the niche Hyperdimension Neptunia series, this vehicle combat game tasks players with rounding up Dogoos. The assessment was that its goal to mimic a unique gameplay loop ultimately fell flat, coming across as more of a cash grab than a worthy series entry. Its brief runtime combined with a premium price was criticized.
5. Captain Blood
Metascore: 50, User Score: 5.3
This title is a resurrected relic from the mid-2000s, seeing the light of day after a very long time in development hell. The team behind it made the decision to release the game as an original experience of its time, fully aware that modern gamers might criticize its old-school mechanics. As such, many reviews concluded that the fascinating story of its journey was far richer than the game itself.
4. Salvation
Aggregate Score: 44, Audience Score: 2.4
This anime-styled action game inspired by games like *Returnal* disappointed with critics. Common complaints were uninspired foes, repetitive levels, and a unengaging plot. A much-criticized system involving the protagonist's clothing was widely panned and took away from the game's overall experience.
3. Ambulance Life
Aggregate Score: 44, User Score: 4.9
Recall the strategic surgery games of the past, then take out the satisfying gameplay. That, according to reviews, is roughly *Ambulance Life*. Players found the core gameplay loop to be monotonous, and the narrative's handling of serious themes was criticized as being insensitive. The overall experience was deemed not very compelling.
2. Tamagotchi Plaza
Aggregate Score: 43, Audience Score: 5.8
This shift away from the classic digital companion formula transforms the franchise into a shopping simulation title. The result, per critics, was a vapid assortment of repetitive tasks that quickly grew tiresome. Some reviews went so far as to declare it one of the lowest-quality titles available on its platform, noting a dearth of satisfying gameplay.
1. MindsEye
Aggregate Score: 37, User Score: 2.5
Intended to be a high-profile open-world action game from a studio led by well-known figures, *MindsEye* was a notable critical flop. Reviews savaged its poor shooting mechanics, boring plot, and a host of game-breaking glitches. Several found it to be a downgrade compared to decades-old games in the similar style. Despite the scathing reviews, a tiny number of fans found something to enjoy in the experience, serving as a rare vote of confidence.
