Across the internet, fans are quick to share their selections of the greatest titles of 2025. However, what of the disasters, the underperformers? We'll take a momentary detour to recognize the most panned games of the year, according to the aggregate scores from Metacritic. Are all of these games as bad as the ratings suggest? Here is the list.
10. Nintendo Switch 2 Welcome Tour
Aggregate Score: 54/100, User Score: 3.4/10
Initial reactions to this showcase title 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 varied dramatically, from harsh disappointment to more generous appraisals that praised the polished software itself. In spite of the debate, the title proved to be a strong commercial performer during its launch month.
9. Rennsport
Metascore: 53/100, User Score: 3.2/10
Presented as "not just a racing game," this driving sim from European developers received overwhelmingly poor reviews. Critics noted that the game was lacking in almost every category, particularly in a year filled with excellent racing experiences. For many, this sputtering stinker was better off left unplayed.
8. Bubsy's Purrfect Collection
Aggregate Score: 53/100, Audience Score: 8.6/10
To begin with: the confusing colon usage is a minor annoyance. This compilation of retro platforming games showcases a "attitude"-filled feline known for non-stop jokes. The consensus was that these games haven't aged well in their time and haven't gotten better with age. The improbably high user score is a baffling anomaly to the Metascore.
7. Hunter x Hunter: Nen x Impact
Metascore: 53, Audience Score: 3.5
This manga-based fighting game was met with significant backlash from both professionals and fans. Issues included a small character selection and a dearth of gameplay modes. User reviews was particularly vitriolic, with some stating a wish that the title's flop would have consequences for future projects.
6. Riders Vs Dogoos
Aggregate Score: 51, User Score: 5.3
A part of the quirky Hyperdimension Neptunia series, this bike-riding title tasks players with collecting cute monsters. Reviewers felt that its effort to channel a unique gameplay loop ultimately fell flat, coming across as more of a low-effort product than a substantial Neptunia game. Its short length combined with a full retail cost seemed like a bold choice.
5. Captain Blood
Aggregate Score: 50, Audience Score: 5.3
This title is a piece of lost media from the mid-2000s, finally released after nearly two decades in legal limbo. The publishers consciously chose to preserve the game as an period-accurate experience of its time, accepting that modern gamers might dislike its retro feel. As such, many reviews concluded that the interesting history of its journey was more interesting than the game itself.
4. Scar-Lead Salvation
Aggregate Score: 44, User Score: 2.4
This anime-art roguelike shooter inspired by games like *Returnal* disappointed with critics. The main issues included bland enemy design, repetitive levels, and a unengaging plot. A particular feature involving the protagonist's clothing was widely panned and took away from the game's potential charm.
3. Ambulance Life
Metascore: 44, User Score: 4.9
Think of the strategic medical sims of the past, then strip away the memorable characters. That, according to reviews, is pretty much *Ambulance Life*. Players found the emergency response sections to be tedious and repetitive, 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 transforms the franchise into a minigame collection title. The result, per critics, was a dull assortment of basic activities that quickly became boring. Some reviews went so far as to declare it one of the most disappointing titles available on its platform, pointing to a profound lack of engaging content.
1. MindsEye
Metascore: 37, Audience Score: 2.5
Arriving as a blockbuster open-world action game from a team featuring industry veterans, *MindsEye* was a notable disappointment. Reviews universally panned its lousy combat, uninspired storytelling, and a multitude of horrendous bugs. Critics found it to be a regression compared to previous-generation games in the same genre. Among the sea of negativity, a few of optimistic players found fun in the experience, offering a rare vote of confidence.
