Across the internet, gamers are quick to share their lists of the top titles of 2025. But what about the disasters, the underperformers? We'll take a few moments to recognize the lowest-rated games of the year, according to the critical consensus on Metacritic. Is every one of these games as bad as the reviews 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 showcase title were heavily influenced by its $9.99 price tag, with many voicing frustration it wasn't a complimentary title like competing console launches. Critical opinion varied dramatically, from harsh disappointment to more generous takes that noted the charming software itself. In spite of the debate, the title proved to be a surprisingly robust commercial performer during its launch month.
9. Rennsport
Metascore: 53/100, User Score: 3.2/10
Marketed as "more than a racing game," this simulation from European developers garnered pretty unanimous reviews. The consensus was that the game felt unfinished in almost every category, notably in a year packed with excellent racing experiences. In the eyes of critics, this underwhelming entry was best left in the garage.
8. The Purrfect Bubsy Collection
Aggregate Score: 53/100, User Score: 8.6/10
First things first: the irritating colon usage is a notable point of contention. This collection of retro mascot platformers features a sarcastic feline known for constant hacky one-liners. The consensus was that these games were not good originally and feel dated with age. The surprisingly strong user score stands as a peculiar contrast to the professional reviews.
7. Hunter x Hunter: Nen x Impact
Aggregate Score: 53, Audience Score: 3.5
This *Hunter x Hunter* fighter was met with harsh criticism from both reviewers and fans. Issues included a limited roster of characters and a severe lack of features. Player sentiment was especially harsh, with some stating a desire that the title's failure would have consequences for the developers.
6. Riders Vs Dogoos
Metascore: 51, User Score: 5.3
Based on the anime-style Hyperdimension Neptunia series, this vehicle combat game tasks players with collecting slime-like creatures. Reviewers felt that its effort to channel a *Katamari Damacy*-like gameplay loop didn't land, coming across as more of a cash grab than a meaningful Neptunia game. Its short length combined with a premium price raised eyebrows.
5. Captain Blood
Aggregate Score: 50, Audience Score: 5.3
This title is a curious artifact from the mid-2000s, finally released after years and years in legal limbo. The team behind it opted to preserve the game as an authentic experience of its time, fully aware that contemporary players might dislike its old-school mechanics. As such, many reviews remarked that the interesting history of its resurrection was far richer than the game itself.
4. Salvation
Aggregate Score: 44, User Score: 2.4
This anime-styled action game inspired by games like *Returnal* fell flat with critics. Common complaints included bland enemy design, repetitive levels, and a snoozy narrative. A much-criticized system involving the protagonist's clothing was widely panned and detracted from the game's enjoyment.
3. Paramedic Simulator
Aggregate Score: 44, Audience Score: 4.9
Recall the strategic surgery games of the past, then take out the compelling story. That, according to reviews, is pretty much *Ambulance Life*. Critics found the emergency response sections to be monotonous, and the story's portrayal of serious themes was criticized as being insensitive. The overall experience was deemed a missed opportunity.
2. Tamagotchi Plaza
Metascore: 43, Audience Score: 5.8
This shift away from the classic digital companion formula transforms the franchise into a town-management title. The result, based on critics, was a dull assortment of repetitive tasks that rapidly became boring. Some reviews went so far as to label it one of the lowest-quality titles available on its platform, citing a profound lack of satisfying gameplay.
1. MindsEye
Metascore: 37, User Score: 2.5
Arriving as a major open-world action game from a studio led by experienced developers, *MindsEye* was a spectacular disappointment. Reviews savaged 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 same genre. Amidst the overwhelming criticism, a small handful of optimistic players found something to enjoy in the experience, serving as a lonely vote of confidence.
