Across the internet, gamers are quick to share their rankings of the top games of 2025. Yet, where are the disasters, the failures? Let's take a moment to honor the most panned games of the year, according to the critical consensus on Metacritic. Is every one of these games as bad as their scores suggest? We shall see.
10. Nintendo Switch 2 Welcome Tour
Metascore: 54/100, Audience Score: 3.4/10
First impressions to this pack-in experience were shaped by its $9.99 price tag, with many voicing frustration it wasn't a complimentary title like some other console launches. Reviewer sentiment varied dramatically, from harsh disappointment to somewhat forgiving appraisals that noted the charming software underneath the controversy. Regardless of the debate, the title proved to be a notable digital seller during its launch month.
9. Rennsport
Aggregate Score: 53/100, User Score: 3.2/10
Billed as "beyond a racing game," this vroom-vroom title from Competition Company and Teyon was met with largely negative reviews. The consensus was that the game felt unfinished in nearly every way, notably in a year filled with high-quality racing games. Ultimately, this disappointing sim was better off left on the shelf.
8. Bubsy's Purrfect Collection
Aggregate Score: 53/100, Audience Score: 8.6/10
Before we start: the irritating title grammar is a minor strike against it. This anthology of retro mascot platformers revives a rude feline known for non-stop jokes. Reviewers noted that these games haven't aged well in their time and have not improved with age. The improbably high user score remains a baffling contrast to the professional reviews.
7. Hunter x Hunter Fighting Game
Aggregate Score: 53, Audience Score: 3.5
This anime-inspired brawler was met with widespread disappointment from both reviewers and the dedicated community. It was lambasted for a limited fighter lineup and a minimal offering of features. Fan reaction was particularly negative, with some stating a hope that the title's failure would have consequences for the developers.
6. Neptunia Riders Vs Dogoos
Aggregate Score: 51, Audience Score: 5.3
Based on the anime-style Hyperdimension Neptunia series, this vehicle combat game tasks players with collecting cute monsters. The assessment was that its attempt to recreate a unique gameplay loop ultimately fell flat, coming across as more of a cash grab than a worthy addition to the franchise. Its short length combined with a $40 price tag raised eyebrows.
5. Captain Blood
Aggregate Score: 50, User Score: 5.3
This title is a curious artifact from the past, seeing the light of day after nearly two decades in production delays. The developers opted to release the game as an original product of its time, fully aware that today's audiences might dislike its retro feel. As such, many reviews noted that the fascinating story of its resurrection was more interesting than the game itself.
4. Salvation
Aggregate Score: 44, User Score: 2.4
This anime-styled roguelike shooter modeled after games like *Returnal* disappointed with critics. Common complaints centered on uninspired foes, samey environments, and a forgettable story. A much-criticized system involving the outfit degradation was universally disliked and detracted from the game's potential charm.
3. Ambulance Life
Metascore: 44, Audience Score: 4.9
Think of the strategic medical sims of the past, then remove the memorable characters. That, according to reviews, is pretty much *Ambulance Life*. Reviewers found the emergency response sections 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, Audience Score: 5.8
This new direction for the classic digital companion formula transforms the franchise into a minigame collection title. The result, according to critics, was a vapid collection of simple minigames that very soon became boring. Some reviews went so far as to declare it one of the lowest-quality titles available on its platform, noting a dearth of engaging content.
1. MindsEye
Aggregate Score: 37, Audience Score: 2.5
Arriving as a high-profile GTA-style title from a ex-Rockstar veteran's well-known figures, *MindsEye* was a notable disappointment. Reviews universally panned its weak action, dull missions, and a plethora of horrendous bugs. Many found it to be a downgrade compared to decades-old games in the same genre. Despite the scathing reviews, a small handful of positive user reviews found value in the experience, providing a rare vote of confidence.
