The Worst Games of the Year 2025, According to Review Aggregator Metacritic

At every turn, fans are eagerly sharing their selections of the best games of 2025. But what about the stinkers, the low achievers? We'll take a moment to recognize the absolute worst games of the year, according to the critical consensus on Metacritic. Are all of these games as disappointing as the ratings suggest? We shall see.

10. Welcome Tour for Switch 2

Metascore: 54/100, User Score: 3.4/10

The early response to this pack-in experience were shaped by its $9.99 price tag, with many voicing frustration it wasn't a complimentary title like competing console launches. Professional assessment varied dramatically, from "crushing disappointment" to somewhat forgiving takes that highlighted the charming software itself. In spite of the controversy, the title proved to be a strong commercial performer during its launch month.

9. Rennsport

Metascore: 53/100, Audience Score: 3.2/10

Billed as "beyond a racing game," this vroom-vroom title from European developers was met with largely negative reviews. Reviews pointed out that the game fell short in almost every category, especially in a year packed with high-quality racing experiences. Ultimately, this disappointing sim was advised to be left unplayed.

8. Bubsy's Purrfect Collection

Aggregate Score: 53/100, User Score: 8.6/10

First things first: the confusing title grammar is a minor strike against it. This collection of 1990s-era Bubsy titles revives a "attitude"-filled feline known for non-stop jokes. Critics observed that these games were mediocre in their time and feel dated with age. The notably positive user score is a curious oddity to the Metascore.

7. Hunter x Hunter: Nen x Impact

Metascore: 53, Audience Score: 3.5

This *Hunter x Hunter* fighter faced significant backlash from both reviewers and the dedicated community. It was lambasted for a limited character selection and a minimal offering of gameplay modes. Fan reaction was especially harsh, with some voicing a wish that the title's flop would have consequences for similar releases.

6. Neptunia Riders Vs Dogoos

Aggregate Score: 51, User Score: 5.3

A part of the niche Hyperdimension Neptunia series, this bike-riding title tasks players with rounding up Dogoos. Critics argued that its effort to channel a unique experience didn't land, coming across as more of a quick spin-off than a substantial series entry. Its 3-hour duration combined with a premium price seemed like a bold choice.

5. Captain Blood

Metascore: 50, User Score: 5.3

This title is a piece of lost media from the mid-2000s, launched after a very long time in development hell. The developers opted to release the game as an authentic product of its time, accepting that modern gamers might dislike its retro feel. As such, many reviews concluded that the fascinating story of its development was more interesting than the game itself.

4. Salvation

Metascore: 44, User Score: 2.4

This anime-styled roguelike shooter modeled after games like *Returnal* failed to impress with critics. Frequent criticisms were uninspired foes, monotonous stage design, and a forgettable story. A controversial mechanic involving the character's attire was universally disliked and detracted from the game's overall experience.

3. Ambulance Life: A Paramedic Simulator

Aggregate Score: 44, Audience Score: 4.9

Recall the strategic surgery games of the past, then take out the satisfying gameplay. That, according to reviews, is roughly *Ambulance Life*. Reviewers found the emergency response sections to be a slog, and the narrative's handling of serious themes was criticized as being insensitive. The overall experience was deemed largely unsatisfying.

2. Tamagotchi Plaza

Aggregate Score: 43, Audience Score: 5.8

This new direction for the classic virtual pet formula makes the franchise into a minigame collection title. The result, based on critics, was a vapid collection of basic activities that very soon became boring. Some reviews went so far as to declare it one of the most disappointing titles available on its platform, pointing to a complete absence of satisfying gameplay.

1. MindsEye

Aggregate Score: 37, User Score: 2.5

Positioned as a high-profile GTA-style title from a ex-Rockstar veteran's experienced developers, *MindsEye* was a notable disappointment. Reviews universally panned its poor shooting mechanics, uninspired storytelling, and a host of game-breaking glitches. Many found it to be a downgrade compared to decades-old games in the similar style. Among the overwhelming criticism, a small handful of positive user reviews found fun in the experience, offering a lonely contrast.