Across the internet, gamers are quick to share their selections of the best games of 2025. But what about the stinkers, the low achievers? We'll take a few moments to examine the absolute worst games of the year, based on the aggregate scores from Metacritic. Are all of these games as disappointing as the ratings suggest? Here is the list.
10. Nintendo Switch 2 Welcome Tour
Metascore: 54/100, User Score: 3.4/10
The early response to this showcase title were heavily influenced by its $9.99 price tag, with many feeling cheesed off it wasn't a complimentary title like competing console launches. Reviewer sentiment varied dramatically, from "crushing disappointment" to slightly kinder appraisals that highlighted the charming software itself. In spite of the debate, the title proved to be a strong commercial performer during its launch month.
9. Rennsport
Aggregate Score: 53/100, User Score: 3.2/10
Billed as "beyond a racing game," this simulation from Competition Company and Teyon was met with overwhelmingly poor reviews. The consensus was that the game felt unfinished in key areas, notably in a year filled with stellar racing experiences. In the eyes of critics, this underwhelming entry was best left on the shelf.
8. The Purrfect Bubsy Collection
Aggregate Score: 53/100, Audience Score: 8.6/10
To begin with: the irritating title grammar is a minor point of contention. This collection of 1990s-era mascot platformers revives a rude feline known for incessant hacky one-liners. Reviewers noted that these games were mediocre in their time and haven't gotten better with age. The notably positive user score stands as a baffling oddity to the critical reception.
7. Nen x Impact
Metascore: 53, Audience Score: 3.5
This *Hunter x Hunter* fighter faced harsh criticism from both critics and players. Issues included a small roster of characters and a minimal offering of features. Player sentiment was notably harsh, with some voicing a desire that the title's flop would have consequences for the developers.
6. Neptunia Motorcycle Game
Metascore: 51, Audience Score: 5.3
Hailing from the niche Hyperdimension Neptunia series, this vehicle combat game tasks players with gathering cute monsters. The assessment was that its effort to mimic a *Katamari Damacy*-like gameplay loop ultimately fell flat, coming across as more of a cash grab than a substantial addition to the franchise. Its 3-hour duration combined with a premium price seemed like a bold choice.
5. Captain Blood
Metascore: 50, Audience Score: 5.3
This title is a resurrected relic from the mid-2000s, seeing the light of day after years and years in production delays. The developers opted to keep the game as an original experience of its time, fully aware that today's audiences might dislike its retro feel. As such, many reviews remarked that the interesting history of its journey was far richer than the actual gameplay.
4. Salvation
Metascore: 44, User Score: 2.4
This anime-art roguelike shooter modeled after games like *Returnal* failed to impress with critics. Frequent criticisms included uninspired foes, samey environments, and a snoozy narrative. A particular feature involving the character's attire 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 surgery games of the past, then remove the memorable characters. That, according to reviews, is essentially *Ambulance Life*. Players found the core gameplay loop to be monotonous, and the treatment of serious themes was criticized as being tone-deaf. The overall experience was deemed largely unsatisfying.
2. Tamagotchi Plaza
Aggregate Score: 43, User Score: 5.8
This shift away from the classic digital companion formula makes the franchise into a town-management title. The result, according to critics, was a vapid assortment of basic activities that very soon overstayed its welcome. Some reviews went so far as to call it one of the lowest-quality titles available on its platform, citing a complete absence of depth.
1. MindsEye
Metascore: 37, Audience Score: 2.5
Positioned as a major open-world action game from a studio led by experienced developers, *MindsEye* was a spectacular disappointment. Reviews universally panned its weak action, boring plot, and a host of game-breaking glitches. Several found it to be a regression compared to decades-old games in the similar style. Among the scathing reviews, a few of fans found value in the experience, serving as a distinct contrast.
