Across the internet, gamers are foaming at the mouth to post their selections of the best titles of 2025. However, what of the stinkers, the low achievers? It's time to take a few moments to honor the absolute worst games of the year, according to the critical consensus on Metacritic. Is every one of these games as disappointing as their scores suggest? Here is the list.
10. Welcome Tour for Switch 2
Metascore: 54/100, Audience Score: 3.4/10
The early response to this showcase title were colored by its $9.99 price tag, with many voicing frustration it wasn't a complimentary title like some other console launches. Professional assessment was quite mixed, from scathing critiques to somewhat forgiving reviews that noted the charming software itself. Regardless of the controversy, the title proved to be a surprisingly robust digital seller during its launch month.
9. Rennsport
Metascore: 53/100, User Score: 3.2/10
Marketed as "beyond a racing game," this simulation from Competition Company and Teyon received largely negative reviews. The consensus was that the game was lacking in nearly every way, especially in a year packed with high-quality racing titles. In the eyes of critics, this underwhelming entry was best left on the shelf.
8. The Purrfect Bubsy Collection
Aggregate Score: 53/100, User Score: 8.6/10
First things first: the awkward title grammar is a silly point of contention. This collection of SNES and PS1 mascot platformers showcases a sarcastic feline known for incessant quips. The consensus was that these games were mediocre originally and have not improved with age. The improbably high user score stands as a peculiar oddity to the Metascore.
7. Nen x Impact
Aggregate Score: 53, Audience Score: 3.5
This *Hunter x Hunter* fighter faced significant backlash from both critics and fans. Complaints centered on a thin fighter lineup and a dearth of gameplay modes. User reviews was especially harsh, with some voicing a wish that the title's failure would be a warning for future projects.
6. Neptunia Riders Vs Dogoos
Metascore: 51, Audience Score: 5.3
A part of the quirky Hyperdimension Neptunia series, this vehicle combat game tasks players with collecting slime-like creatures. The assessment was that its goal to channel a unique feel didn't land, coming across as more of a quick spin-off than a substantial Neptunia game. Its short length combined with a $40 price tag seemed like a bold choice.
5. Captain Blood
Metascore: 50, Audience Score: 5.3
This title is a resurrected relic from the Xbox era, launched after years and years in legal limbo. The team behind it opted to release the game as an period-accurate experience of its time, acknowledging that contemporary players might dislike its retro feel. As such, many reviews remarked that the tale of its journey was far richer than the end product.
4. Scar-Lead Salvation
Aggregate Score: 44, Audience Score: 2.4
This anime-art roguelike shooter modeled after games like *Returnal* disappointed with critics. Common complaints included uninspired foes, repetitive levels, and a forgettable story. A particular feature involving the outfit degradation was seen as adding nothing and took away from the game's enjoyment.
3. Paramedic Simulator
Aggregate Score: 44, Audience Score: 4.9
Think of the strategic surgery games of the past, then remove the compelling story. That, according to reviews, is roughly *Ambulance Life*. Critics found the emergency response sections 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 shift away from the classic digital companion formula turns the franchise into a minigame collection title. The result, per critics, was a vapid collection of basic activities that quickly became boring. Some reviews went so far as to call it one of the most disappointing titles available on its platform, citing a complete absence of satisfying gameplay.
1. MindsEye
Aggregate Score: 37, User Score: 2.5
Arriving as a blockbuster open-world action game from a ex-Rockstar veteran's industry veterans, *MindsEye* was a spectacular disappointment. Reviews savaged its lousy combat, boring plot, and a multitude of game-breaking glitches. Several found it to be a significant step back compared to decades-old games in the action genre. Amidst the sea of negativity, a tiny number of positive user reviews found fun in the experience, serving as a rare vote of confidence.
