Across the internet, gamers are foaming at the mouth to post their lists of the greatest titles of 2025. Yet, where are the stinkers, the low achievers? We'll take a momentary detour to recognize the absolute worst games of the year, according to the aggregate scores from Metacritic. Could each of these games as bad as the reviews suggest? Let's find out.
10. Nintendo Switch 2 Welcome Tour
Metascore: 54/100, User Score: 3.4/10
First impressions to this pack-in experience were shaped by its $9.99 price tag, with many voicing frustration it wasn't a bundled game like similar console launches. Critical opinion varied dramatically, from scathing critiques to more generous takes that noted the delightful software underneath the controversy. Despite the debate, the title proved to be a notable digital seller during its launch month.
9. Rennsport
Aggregate Score: 53/100, User Score: 3.2/10
Presented as "beyond a racing game," this vroom-vroom title from Competition Company and Teyon was met with overwhelmingly poor reviews. The consensus was that the game felt unfinished in almost every category, notably in a year packed with excellent racing experiences. Ultimately, this sputtering stinker was advised to be left unplayed.
8. The Purrfect Bubsy Collection
Aggregate Score: 53/100, Audience Score: 8.6/10
First things first: the awkward punctuation is a notable point of contention. This anthology of 1990s-era platforming games showcases a "attitude"-filled feline known for constant quips. Critics observed that these games were not good in their time and haven't gotten better with age. The surprisingly strong user score remains a peculiar oddity to the Metascore.
7. Hunter x Hunter Fighting Game
Aggregate Score: 53, User Score: 3.5
This manga-based fighter was met with significant backlash from both professionals and players. Issues included a small roster of characters and a severe lack of features. Fan reaction was particularly negative, with some voicing a desire that the title's poor performance would serve as a lesson for the developers.
6. Neptunia Motorcycle Game
Aggregate Score: 51, Audience Score: 5.3
Based on the niche Hyperdimension Neptunia series, this bike-riding title tasks players with rounding up Dogoos. Critics argued that its attempt to channel a unique gameplay loop was unsuccessful, coming across as more of a quick spin-off than a worthy series entry. Its short length combined with a premium price raised eyebrows.
5. Captain Blood
Aggregate Score: 50, User Score: 5.3
This title is a curious artifact from the past, launched after a very long time in legal limbo. The publishers made the decision to keep the game as an original experience of its time, acknowledging that today's audiences might not appreciate its retro feel. As such, many reviews remarked that the interesting history of its journey was more interesting than the game itself.
4. Scar-Lead Salvation
Aggregate Score: 44, User Score: 2.4
This anime-art action game inspired by games like *Returnal* disappointed with critics. Frequent criticisms centered on uninspired foes, repetitive levels, and a snoozy narrative. A much-criticized system involving the protagonist's clothing was seen as adding nothing and took away from the game's enjoyment.
3. Ambulance Life
Aggregate Score: 44, Audience Score: 4.9
Think of the strategic medical sims of the past, then take out the compelling story. That, according to reviews, is roughly *Ambulance Life*. Players found the emergency response sections to be a slog, and the treatment of mental health topics was criticized as being insensitive. The overall experience was deemed not very compelling.
2. Tamagotchi Plaza
Aggregate Score: 43, User Score: 5.8
This shift away from the classic digital companion formula turns the franchise into a minigame collection title. The result, according to critics, was a vapid assortment of repetitive tasks that quickly overstayed its welcome. Some reviews went so far as to label it one of the worst titles available on its platform, citing a complete absence of engaging content.
1. MindsEye
Aggregate Score: 37, User Score: 2.5
Positioned as a blockbuster crime saga from a team featuring industry veterans, *MindsEye* was a catastrophic disappointment. Reviews savaged its lousy combat, uninspired storytelling, and a plethora of horrendous bugs. Many found it to be a significant step back compared to decades-old games in the similar style. Amidst the sea of negativity, a few of optimistic players found value in the experience, serving as a distinct contrast.
