Across the internet, fans are foaming at the mouth to post their lists of the greatest releases of 2025. Yet, where are the stinkers, the underperformers? We'll take a momentary detour to examine the lowest-rated games of the year, according to review aggregator Metacritic. Is every one of these games truly as terrible as their scores suggest? Let's find out.
10. Welcome Tour for Switch 2
Metascore: 54/100, Audience Score: 3.4/10
The early response to this showcase title were shaped by its $9.99 price tag, with many expressing disappointment it wasn't a free pack-in like competing console launches. Reviewer sentiment varied dramatically, from "crushing disappointment" to more generous appraisals that praised the delightful software itself. 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
Presented as "not just a racing game," this simulation from studios in Germany and Poland was met with pretty unanimous reviews. Critics noted that the game felt unfinished in nearly every way, especially in a year filled with stellar racing experiences. Ultimately, this disappointing sim was best left on the shelf.
8. Bubsy's Purrfect Collection
Aggregate Score: 53/100, User Score: 8.6/10
First things first: the confusing title grammar is a notable point of contention. This collection of retro mascot platformers revives a rude feline known for incessant hacky one-liners. The consensus was that these games haven't aged well originally and have not improved with age. The notably positive user score remains a baffling contrast to the professional reviews.
7. Hunter x Hunter Fighting Game
Metascore: 53, User Score: 3.5
This manga-based fighting game faced significant backlash from both critics and players. Complaints centered on a limited character selection and a minimal offering of gameplay modes. Player sentiment was notably harsh, with some voicing a desire that the title's failure would have consequences for the developers.
6. Neptunia Riders Vs Dogoos
Aggregate Score: 51, Audience Score: 5.3
A part of the quirky Hyperdimension Neptunia series, this vehicle combat game tasks players with collecting slime-like creatures. Critics argued that its attempt to recreate a rolling-collection experience didn't land, coming across as more of a quick spin-off than a worthy addition to the franchise. Its short length combined with a premium price raised eyebrows.
5. Captain Blood
Metascore: 50, User Score: 5.3
This title is a piece of lost media from the mid-2000s, finally released after nearly two decades in production delays. The publishers consciously chose to release the game as an original product of its time, accepting that modern gamers might dislike its old-school mechanics. As such, many reviews remarked that the interesting history of its development was more compelling than the actual gameplay.
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 bland enemy design, monotonous stage design, and a forgettable story. A controversial mechanic involving the protagonist's clothing was universally disliked and detracted from the game's overall experience.
3. Ambulance Life
Aggregate Score: 44, User Score: 4.9
Recall the engaging surgery games of the past, then remove the compelling story. That, according to reviews, is pretty much *Ambulance Life*. Players found the emergency response sections to be tedious and repetitive, and the story's portrayal of serious themes was criticized as being tone-deaf. The overall experience was deemed not very compelling.
2. Tamagotchi Plaza
Metascore: 43, Audience Score: 5.8
This departure from the classic digital companion formula turns the franchise into a town-management title. The result, based on critics, was a unsatisfying assortment of repetitive tasks that quickly became boring. Some reviews went so far as to call it one of the worst titles available on its platform, noting a complete absence of satisfying gameplay.
1. MindsEye
Aggregate Score: 37, User Score: 2.5
Intended to be a high-profile crime saga from a ex-Rockstar veteran's well-known figures, *MindsEye* was a spectacular critical flop. Reviews universally panned its weak action, dull missions, and a multitude of technical problems. Critics found it to be a significant step back compared to decades-old games in the similar style. Amidst the overwhelming criticism, a small handful of positive user reviews found something to enjoy in the experience, providing a lonely vote of confidence.
