Across the internet, fans are eagerly sharing their lists of the greatest games of 2025. But what about the stinkers, the failures? Let's take a momentary detour to examine the absolute worst games of the year, according to the aggregate scores from Metacritic. Is every one of these games as bad as their scores suggest? Let's find out.
10. Welcome Tour for Switch 2
Metascore: 54/100, User Score: 3.4/10
First impressions to this showcase title were colored by its $9.99 price tag, with many voicing frustration it wasn't a free pack-in like some other console launches. Reviewer sentiment varied dramatically, from harsh disappointment to more generous appraisals that noted the charming software underneath the controversy. Regardless of the grumbling, the title proved to be a surprisingly robust commercial performer during its launch month.
9. Rennsport
Metascore: 53/100, Audience Score: 3.2/10
Marketed as "beyond a racing game," this driving sim from studios in Germany and Poland received largely negative reviews. The consensus was that the game fell short in key areas, especially in a year packed with excellent racing experiences. For many, this disappointing sim was advised to be left in the garage.
8. The Purrfect Bubsy Collection
Aggregate Score: 53/100, User Score: 8.6/10
First things first: the confusing colon usage is a silly strike against it. This anthology of retro mascot platformers revives a sarcastic feline known for non-stop jokes. Critics observed that these games were mediocre originally and haven't gotten better with age. The surprisingly strong user score remains a baffling oddity to the Metascore.
7. Hunter x Hunter Fighting Game
Metascore: 53, User Score: 3.5
This *Hunter x Hunter* fighter was met with significant backlash from both critics and fans. Complaints centered on a thin character selection and a severe lack of content. User reviews was especially harsh, with some expressing a wish that the title's flop would be a warning for similar releases.
6. Riders Vs Dogoos
Metascore: 51, User Score: 5.3
A part of the niche Hyperdimension Neptunia series, this bike-riding title tasks players with gathering slime-like creatures. Critics argued that its goal to recreate a rolling-collection gameplay loop didn't land, coming across as more of a quick spin-off than a worthy series entry. Its brief runtime combined with a full retail cost was criticized.
5. Captain Blood
Aggregate Score: 50, User Score: 5.3
This title is a curious artifact from the Xbox era, finally released after years and years in production delays. The developers opted to release the game as an original product of its time, acknowledging that modern gamers might not appreciate its retro feel. As such, many reviews concluded that the fascinating story of its journey was far richer than the end product.
4. Salvation
Metascore: 44, Audience Score: 2.4
This anime-art action game modeled after games like *Returnal* disappointed with critics. Common complaints included bland enemy design, monotonous stage design, and a forgettable story. A much-criticized system involving the character's attire was universally disliked and took away from the game's overall experience.
3. Ambulance Life
Metascore: 44, Audience Score: 4.9
Recall the tense surgery games of the past, then remove the memorable characters. That, according to reviews, is essentially *Ambulance Life*. Critics found the ambulance-driving sequences to be tedious and repetitive, and the narrative's handling of mental health topics 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, according to critics, was a vapid series of basic activities that rapidly overstayed its welcome. Some reviews went so far as to label it one of the lowest-quality titles available on its platform, noting a dearth of depth.
1. MindsEye
Metascore: 37, User Score: 2.5
Arriving as a high-profile crime saga from a ex-Rockstar veteran's experienced developers, *MindsEye* was a spectacular disappointment. Reviews heavily criticized its lousy combat, uninspired storytelling, and a host of game-breaking glitches. Many found it to be a significant step back compared to decades-old games in the same genre. Despite the overwhelming criticism, a tiny number of positive user reviews found value in the experience, offering a distinct contrast.
