Across the internet, enthusiasts are quick to share their lists of the best games of 2025. However, what of 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. Could each of these games truly as terrible as their scores suggest? We shall see.
10. Nintendo Switch 2 Welcome Tour
Aggregate Score: 54/100, Audience Score: 3.4/10
The early response to this showcase title were colored by its $9.99 price tag, with many expressing disappointment it wasn't a free pack-in like similar console launches. Professional assessment varied dramatically, from "crushing disappointment" to somewhat forgiving reviews that highlighted the polished software underneath the controversy. Despite the controversy, the title proved to be a strong seller during its launch month.
9. Rennsport
Metascore: 53/100, User Score: 3.2/10
Marketed as "more than a racing game," this simulation from Competition Company and Teyon garnered overwhelmingly poor reviews. The consensus was that the game was lacking in nearly every way, especially in a year filled with high-quality racing games. For many, this sputtering stinker was advised to be left on the shelf.
8. Bubsy's Purrfect Collection
Aggregate Score: 53/100, User Score: 8.6/10
Before we start: the awkward colon usage is a minor point of contention. This anthology of SNES and PS1 mascot platformers features a rude feline known for constant hacky one-liners. The consensus was that these games were not good originally and haven't gotten better with age. The improbably high user score remains a peculiar oddity to the Metascore.
7. Hunter x Hunter: Nen x Impact
Aggregate Score: 53, Audience Score: 3.5
This *Hunter x Hunter* brawler faced widespread disappointment from both critics and fans. Complaints centered on a small character selection and a severe lack of features. User reviews was particularly vitriolic, with some voicing a wish that the title's flop would serve as a lesson for the developers.
6. Neptunia Riders Vs Dogoos
Aggregate Score: 51, User Score: 5.3
A part of the niche Hyperdimension Neptunia series, this vehicle combat game tasks players with collecting Dogoos. The assessment was that its effort to channel a *Katamari Damacy*-like gameplay loop was unsuccessful, coming across as more of a low-effort product than a substantial series entry. Its brief runtime combined with a premium price seemed like a bold choice.
5. Captain Blood
Metascore: 50, User Score: 5.3
This title is a resurrected relic from the past, finally released after nearly two decades in legal limbo. The team behind it opted to release the game as an authentic experience of its time, fully aware that today's audiences might criticize its retro feel. As such, many reviews noted that the interesting history of its journey was far richer than the actual gameplay.
4. Scar-Lead
Metascore: 44, User Score: 2.4
This anime-art roguelike shooter modeled after games like *Returnal* fell flat with critics. Common complaints centered on bland enemy design, repetitive levels, and a unengaging plot. A controversial mechanic involving the protagonist's clothing was seen as adding nothing and undermined the game's enjoyment.
3. Ambulance Life
Metascore: 44, User Score: 4.9
Recall the strategic medical sims of the past, then remove the memorable characters. That, according to reviews, is pretty much *Ambulance Life*. Reviewers found the core gameplay loop to be a slog, and the narrative's handling of mental health topics was criticized as being insensitive. The overall experience was deemed a missed opportunity.
2. Tamagotchi Plaza
Metascore: 43, User Score: 5.8
This shift away from the classic virtual pet formula transforms the franchise into a minigame collection title. The result, according to critics, was a unsatisfying assortment of repetitive tasks that quickly became boring. Some reviews went so far as to declare it one of the worst titles available on its platform, pointing to a profound lack of satisfying gameplay.
1. MindsEye
Metascore: 37, User Score: 2.5
Arriving as a major crime saga from a studio led by industry veterans, *MindsEye* was a catastrophic disappointment. Reviews universally panned its poor shooting mechanics, uninspired storytelling, and a host of technical problems. Critics found it to be a regression compared to previous-generation games in the similar style. Despite the scathing reviews, a few of optimistic players found fun in the experience, providing a lonely counterpoint.
