At every turn, enthusiasts are foaming at the mouth to post their selections of the greatest games of 2025. Yet, where are the disasters, the low achievers? It's time to take a few moments to recognize the most panned games of the year, according to review aggregator Metacritic. Is every one of these games as disappointing as their scores suggest? Let's find out.
10. Switch 2's Welcome Tour
Metascore: 54/100, User Score: 3.4/10
First impressions to this tech demo were shaped by its $9.99 price tag, with many voicing frustration it wasn't a free pack-in like similar console launches. Reviewer sentiment spanned a wide spectrum, from "crushing disappointment" to slightly kinder reviews that highlighted the delightful software underneath the controversy. Despite the grumbling, the title proved to be a surprisingly robust digital seller during its launch month.
9. Rennsport
Metascore: 53/100, User Score: 3.2/10
Presented as "not just a racing game," this simulation from Competition Company and Teyon received largely negative reviews. The consensus was that the game was lacking in almost every category, particularly in a year featuring high-quality racing games. In the eyes of critics, this sputtering stinker was advised to be left in the garage.
8. Bubsy in: The Purrfect Collection
Metascore: 53/100, User Score: 8.6/10
Before we start: the confusing title grammar is a notable annoyance. This collection of SNES and PS1 mascot platformers showcases a sarcastic feline known for incessant quips. Reviewers noted that these games were not good originally and feel dated with age. The notably positive user score stands as a peculiar contrast to the professional reviews.
7. Hunter x Hunter Fighting Game
Metascore: 53, User Score: 3.5
This anime-inspired fighting game was met with harsh criticism from both critics and players. Issues included a thin roster of characters and a dearth of gameplay modes. Player sentiment was particularly vitriolic, with some voicing a hope that the title's flop would be a warning for similar releases.
6. Neptunia Motorcycle Game
Metascore: 51, Audience Score: 5.3
A part of the quirky Hyperdimension Neptunia series, this motorcycle action game tasks players with rounding up Dogoos. Reviewers felt that its effort to recreate a unique experience was unsuccessful, coming across as more of a cash grab than a meaningful addition to the franchise. Its brief runtime combined with a $40 price tag was criticized.
5. Captain Blood
Aggregate Score: 50, User Score: 5.3
This title is a resurrected relic from the Xbox era, finally released after years and years in legal limbo. The developers opted to keep the game as an original experience of its time, fully aware that today's audiences might criticize its old-school mechanics. As such, many reviews noted that the interesting history of its journey was more interesting than the end product.
4. Salvation
Aggregate Score: 44, User Score: 2.4
This anime-art action game drawing from games like *Returnal* failed to impress with critics. Common complaints included bland enemy design, samey environments, and a forgettable story. A particular feature involving the outfit degradation was universally disliked and took away from the game's potential charm.
3. Ambulance Life
Aggregate Score: 44, User Score: 4.9
Recall the tense surgery games of the past, then strip away the compelling story. That, according to reviews, is roughly *Ambulance Life*. Reviewers found the emergency response sections to be monotonous, and the treatment of mental health topics was criticized as being tone-deaf. The overall experience was deemed not very compelling.
2. Tamagotchi Plaza
Aggregate Score: 43, Audience Score: 5.8
This new direction for the classic digital companion formula transforms the franchise into a shopping simulation title. The result, according to critics, was a vapid collection of repetitive tasks that rapidly grew tiresome. Some reviews went so far as to label it one of the worst titles available on its platform, noting a complete absence of engaging content.
1. MindsEye
Metascore: 37, Audience Score: 2.5
Intended to be a blockbuster open-world action game from a team featuring experienced developers, *MindsEye* was a notable disappointment. Reviews savaged its lousy combat, uninspired storytelling, and a multitude of technical problems. Several found it to be a downgrade compared to much older games in the same genre. Amidst the scathing reviews, a few of optimistic players found something to enjoy in the experience, serving as a distinct vote of confidence.
