Across the internet, gamers are quick to share their selections of the top releases of 2025. But what about the disasters, the underperformers? Let's take a few moments to recognize the most panned games of the year, according to the aggregate scores from Metacritic. Is every one of these games as disappointing as the ratings suggest? Here is the list.
10. Switch 2's Welcome Tour
Aggregate Score: 54/100, User Score: 3.4/10
The early response to this pack-in experience were heavily influenced by its $9.99 price tag, with many feeling cheesed off it wasn't a complimentary title like similar console launches. Reviewer sentiment varied dramatically, from scathing critiques to somewhat forgiving reviews that praised the charming software underneath the controversy. Regardless of the debate, the title proved to be a notable 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 European developers was met with pretty unanimous reviews. Critics noted that the game fell short in almost every category, particularly in a year featuring stellar racing experiences. For many, this underwhelming entry was advised to be left on the shelf.
8. Bubsy in: The Purrfect Collection
Aggregate Score: 53/100, Audience Score: 8.6/10
To begin with: the confusing colon usage is a minor annoyance. This collection of 1990s-era Bubsy titles showcases a rude feline known for constant jokes. The consensus was that these games were mediocre originally and feel dated with age. The improbably high user score stands as a baffling oddity to the Metascore.
7. Hunter x Hunter Fighting Game
Metascore: 53, User Score: 3.5
This anime-inspired fighting game encountered harsh criticism from both professionals and players. Complaints centered on a small fighter lineup and a severe lack of content. Player sentiment was notably harsh, with some stating a wish that the title's flop would serve as a lesson for similar releases.
6. Riders Vs Dogoos
Aggregate Score: 51, Audience Score: 5.3
A part of the niche Hyperdimension Neptunia series, this motorcycle action game tasks players with collecting slime-like creatures. The assessment was that its goal to recreate a unique gameplay loop was unsuccessful, coming across as more of a quick spin-off than a meaningful addition to the franchise. Its brief runtime combined with a $40 price tag was criticized.
5. Captain Blood
Metascore: 50, User Score: 5.3
This title is a resurrected relic from the past, launched after nearly two decades in legal limbo. The developers consciously chose to preserve the game as an period-accurate product of its time, accepting that modern gamers might not appreciate its old-school mechanics. As such, many reviews concluded that the tale of its resurrection was more interesting than the end product.
4. Salvation
Metascore: 44, User Score: 2.4
This anime-styled third-person shooter modeled after games like *Returnal* disappointed with critics. Frequent criticisms included bland enemy design, monotonous stage design, and a snoozy narrative. A particular feature involving the character's attire was seen as adding nothing and took away from the game's potential charm.
3. Paramedic Simulator
Metascore: 44, User Score: 4.9
Imagine 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 a slog, and the story's portrayal of mental health topics was criticized as being tone-deaf. The overall experience was deemed a missed opportunity.
2. Tamagotchi Plaza
Metascore: 43, Audience Score: 5.8
This new direction for the classic digital companion formula turns the franchise into a minigame collection title. The result, per critics, was a unsatisfying series of repetitive tasks that very soon became boring. Some reviews went so far as to declare it one of the worst titles available on its platform, noting a dearth of satisfying gameplay.
1. MindsEye
Aggregate Score: 37, Audience Score: 2.5
Positioned as a blockbuster GTA-style title from a ex-Rockstar veteran's well-known figures, *MindsEye* was a catastrophic disappointment. Reviews heavily criticized its weak action, dull missions, and a host of technical problems. Several found it to be a regression compared to much older games in the similar style. Among the scathing reviews, a tiny number of optimistic players found value in the experience, offering a lonely contrast.
