Across the internet, gamers are quick to share their lists of the best titles of 2025. However, what of the disasters, the underperformers? We'll take a few moments to recognize the most panned games of the year, based on the critical consensus on Metacritic. Is every one of these games as bad as the reviews suggest? Here is the list.
10. Nintendo Switch 2 Welcome Tour
Aggregate Score: 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 some other console launches. Reviewer sentiment was quite mixed, from "crushing disappointment" to slightly kinder reviews that highlighted the charming software underneath the controversy. Regardless of the debate, the title proved to be a surprisingly robust seller during its launch month.
9. Rennsport
Aggregate Score: 53/100, Audience Score: 3.2/10
Billed as "more than a racing game," this driving sim from studios in Germany and Poland received largely negative reviews. The consensus was that the game fell short in key areas, notably in a year filled with high-quality racing titles. Ultimately, this underwhelming entry was best left on the shelf.
8. Bubsy in: The Purrfect Collection
Aggregate Score: 53/100, User Score: 8.6/10
Before we start: the confusing punctuation is a notable annoyance. This collection of retro Bubsy titles showcases a "attitude"-filled feline known for non-stop quips. Reviewers noted that these games were mediocre originally and have not improved with age. The notably positive user score stands as a curious contrast to the critical reception.
7. Hunter x Hunter Fighting Game
Aggregate Score: 53, User Score: 3.5
This *Hunter x Hunter* fighter faced widespread disappointment from both critics and the dedicated community. Issues included a thin character selection and a minimal offering of features. User reviews was notably vitriolic, with some expressing a hope that the title's failure would have consequences for the developers.
6. Neptunia Riders Vs Dogoos
Aggregate Score: 51, User Score: 5.3
A part of the quirky Hyperdimension Neptunia series, this vehicle combat game tasks players with rounding up cute monsters. The assessment was that its goal to channel a *Katamari Damacy*-like feel didn't land, coming across as more of a cash grab than a worthy series entry. Its short length combined with a $40 price tag was criticized.
5. Captain Blood
Metascore: 50, Audience Score: 5.3
This title is a curious artifact from the past, seeing the light of day after years and years in development hell. The team behind it opted to keep the game as an period-accurate product of its time, accepting that modern gamers might not appreciate its retro feel. As such, many reviews concluded that the tale of its resurrection was more compelling than the game itself.
4. Scar-Lead Salvation
Metascore: 44, User Score: 2.4
This anime-art action game drawing from games like *Returnal* disappointed with critics. The main issues centered on bland enemy design, samey environments, and a forgettable story. A particular feature involving the character's attire was universally disliked and detracted from the game's potential charm.
3. Ambulance Life
Aggregate Score: 44, User Score: 4.9
Recall the tense medical sims of the past, then remove the compelling story. That, according to reviews, is essentially *Ambulance Life*. Reviewers found the ambulance-driving sequences to be a slog, and the treatment of its subject matter 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 digital companion formula turns the franchise into a minigame collection title. The result, per critics, was a unsatisfying collection of simple minigames that quickly grew tiresome. Some reviews went so far as to call it one of the most disappointing titles available on its platform, noting a complete absence of satisfying gameplay.
1. MindsEye
Metascore: 37, User Score: 2.5
Positioned as a high-profile open-world action game from a team featuring industry veterans, *MindsEye* was a catastrophic disappointment. Reviews heavily criticized its poor shooting mechanics, uninspired storytelling, and a multitude of horrendous bugs. Several found it to be a downgrade compared to much older games in the similar style. Despite the scathing reviews, a few of fans found something to enjoy in the experience, serving as a rare vote of confidence.
