At every turn, enthusiasts are quick to share their rankings of the greatest games of 2025. But what about the stinkers, the failures? We'll 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 their scores suggest? Here is the list.
10. Welcome Tour for Switch 2
Metascore: 54/100, User Score: 3.4/10
Initial reactions to this tech demo were colored by its $9.99 price tag, with many expressing disappointment it wasn't a complimentary title like similar console launches. Reviewer sentiment spanned a wide spectrum, from scathing critiques to more generous reviews that praised the charming software itself. In spite of the grumbling, the title proved to be a strong commercial performer during its launch month.
9. Rennsport
Metascore: 53/100, Audience Score: 3.2/10
Presented as "more than a racing game," this vroom-vroom title from studios in Germany and Poland garnered largely negative reviews. The consensus was that the game felt unfinished in key areas, particularly in a year filled with stellar racing titles. In the eyes of critics, this disappointing sim was best left unplayed.
8. Bubsy in: The Purrfect Collection
Aggregate Score: 53/100, User Score: 8.6/10
First things first: the confusing title grammar is a silly annoyance. This collection of retro mascot platformers showcases a rude feline known for incessant hacky one-liners. The consensus was that these games haven't aged well originally and have not improved with age. The improbably high user score is a baffling anomaly to the Metascore.
7. Hunter x Hunter: Nen x Impact
Metascore: 53, Audience Score: 3.5
This anime-inspired fighter faced widespread disappointment from both reviewers and fans. It was lambasted for a limited character selection and a minimal offering of features. User reviews was notably vitriolic, with some voicing a desire that the title's poor performance would be a warning for the developers.
6. Riders Vs Dogoos
Aggregate Score: 51, User Score: 5.3
Based on the anime-style Hyperdimension Neptunia series, this vehicle combat game tasks players with collecting cute monsters. The assessment was that its goal to mimic a unique feel didn't land, coming across as more of a quick spin-off than a substantial series entry. Its short length combined with a full retail cost raised eyebrows.
5. Captain Blood
Metascore: 50, User Score: 5.3
This title is a curious artifact from the Xbox era, launched after a very long time in development hell. The publishers made the decision to preserve the game as an original artifact of its time, accepting that modern gamers might dislike its dated design. As such, many reviews remarked that the interesting history of its journey was more compelling than the actual gameplay.
4. Scar-Lead
Metascore: 44, User Score: 2.4
This anime-styled third-person shooter inspired by games like *Returnal* failed to impress with critics. Common complaints were bland enemy design, repetitive levels, and a unengaging plot. A particular feature involving the character's attire was universally disliked and took away from the game's enjoyment.
3. Paramedic Simulator
Aggregate Score: 44, User Score: 4.9
Imagine the strategic medical sims of the past, then remove the compelling story. That, according to reviews, is pretty much *Ambulance Life*. Reviewers found the core gameplay loop to be a slog, and the narrative's handling of mental health topics was criticized as being insensitive. The overall experience was deemed largely unsatisfying.
2. Tamagotchi Plaza
Aggregate Score: 43, User Score: 5.8
This shift away from the classic virtual pet formula transforms the franchise into a minigame collection title. The result, according to critics, was a dull assortment of basic activities that quickly became boring. Some reviews went so far as to label it one of the worst titles available on its platform, noting a complete absence of depth.
1. MindsEye
Aggregate Score: 37, User Score: 2.5
Intended to be a major GTA-style title from a team featuring experienced developers, *MindsEye* was a notable critical flop. Reviews heavily criticized its poor shooting mechanics, uninspired storytelling, and a multitude of technical problems. Critics found it to be a regression compared to much older games in the similar style. Amidst the overwhelming criticism, a small handful of positive user reviews found value in the experience, providing a lonely contrast.
