At every turn, gamers are quick to share their lists of the best releases of 2025. But what about the disasters, the failures? We'll take a few moments to examine the absolute worst games of the year, as determined by the aggregate scores from Metacritic. Could each of these games truly as terrible as the reviews suggest? We shall see.
10. Switch 2's Welcome Tour
Aggregate Score: 54/100, User Score: 3.4/10
First impressions to this pack-in experience were colored by its $9.99 price tag, with many feeling cheesed off it wasn't a free pack-in like some other console launches. Reviewer sentiment varied dramatically, from "crushing disappointment" to somewhat forgiving reviews that praised the polished software itself. Regardless of the controversy, the title proved to be a notable seller during its launch month.
9. Rennsport
Metascore: 53/100, Audience Score: 3.2/10
Presented as "more than a racing game," this simulation from European developers was met with overwhelmingly poor reviews. Critics noted that the game fell short in almost every category, especially in a year packed with high-quality racing titles. In the eyes of critics, this disappointing sim was better off left on the shelf.
8. The Purrfect Bubsy Collection
Aggregate Score: 53/100, User Score: 8.6/10
Before we start: the confusing title grammar is a minor strike against it. This compilation of SNES and PS1 Bubsy titles showcases a rude feline known for incessant quips. The consensus was that these games were not good to begin with and haven't gotten better with age. The improbably high user score is a baffling oddity to the Metascore.
7. Hunter x Hunter Fighting Game
Aggregate Score: 53, User Score: 3.5
This manga-based fighting game encountered widespread disappointment from both reviewers and fans. Issues included a thin character selection and a minimal offering of content. Player sentiment was particularly harsh, with some voicing a desire that the title's failure would have consequences for similar releases.
6. Riders Vs Dogoos
Metascore: 51, Audience Score: 5.3
Based on the anime-style Hyperdimension Neptunia series, this vehicle combat game tasks players with collecting cute monsters. Critics argued that its goal to recreate a unique experience was unsuccessful, coming across as more of a low-effort product than a worthy series entry. Its 3-hour duration combined with a premium price raised eyebrows.
5. Captain Blood
Metascore: 50, Audience Score: 5.3
This title is a curious artifact from the Xbox era, launched after nearly two decades in production delays. The team behind it opted to preserve the game as an period-accurate artifact of its time, fully aware that contemporary players might not appreciate its dated design. As such, many reviews concluded that the fascinating story of its journey was more compelling than the game itself.
4. Scar-Lead Salvation
Aggregate Score: 44, Audience Score: 2.4
This anime-art action game modeled after games like *Returnal* failed to impress with critics. The main issues were repetitive adversaries, monotonous stage design, and a forgettable story. A particular feature involving the protagonist's clothing was seen as adding nothing and detracted from the game's enjoyment.
3. Paramedic Simulator
Metascore: 44, Audience Score: 4.9
Recall the engaging medical sims of the past, then take out the memorable characters. That, according to reviews, is roughly *Ambulance Life*. Reviewers found the emergency response sections to be monotonous, and the narrative's handling of serious themes was criticized as being tone-deaf. The overall experience was deemed largely unsatisfying.
2. Tamagotchi Plaza
Aggregate Score: 43, Audience Score: 5.8
This new direction for the classic digital companion formula turns the franchise into a minigame collection title. The result, per critics, was a dull series of basic activities that very soon became boring. Some reviews went so far as to label it one of the worst titles available on its platform, pointing to a dearth of satisfying gameplay.
1. MindsEye
Aggregate Score: 37, User Score: 2.5
Intended to be a blockbuster GTA-style title from a team featuring well-known figures, *MindsEye* was a catastrophic critical flop. Reviews universally panned its lousy combat, dull missions, and a host of horrendous bugs. Several found it to be a downgrade compared to decades-old games in the action genre. Among the scathing reviews, a few of optimistic players found fun in the experience, offering a lonely contrast.
