At every turn, fans are foaming at the mouth to post their lists of the greatest games of 2025. However, what of the stinkers, the underperformers? It's time to take a moment to recognize the most panned games of the year, based on the critical consensus on Metacritic. Are all of these games as disappointing as their scores suggest? Let's find out.
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 complimentary title like some other console launches. Critical opinion was quite mixed, from scathing critiques to somewhat forgiving reviews that noted the delightful software itself. Regardless of the debate, the title proved to be a notable seller during its launch month.
9. Rennsport
Metascore: 53/100, User Score: 3.2/10
Marketed as "more than a racing game," this driving sim from studios in Germany and Poland garnered largely negative reviews. Critics noted that the game felt unfinished in nearly every way, especially in a year filled with stellar racing games. Ultimately, this disappointing sim was better off left in the garage.
8. The Purrfect Bubsy Collection
Aggregate Score: 53/100, Audience Score: 8.6/10
To begin with: the confusing punctuation is a notable annoyance. This collection of SNES and PS1 Bubsy titles features a sarcastic feline known for incessant jokes. The consensus was that these games were not good to begin with and feel dated with age. The notably positive user score remains a curious oddity to the Metascore.
7. Hunter x Hunter Fighting Game
Aggregate Score: 53, User Score: 3.5
This manga-based fighting game was met with significant backlash from both reviewers and players. It was lambasted for a limited roster of characters and a dearth of gameplay modes. Fan reaction was particularly vitriolic, with some voicing a desire that the title's flop would serve as a lesson for similar releases.
6. Riders Vs Dogoos
Aggregate Score: 51, Audience Score: 5.3
Based on the anime-style Hyperdimension Neptunia series, this motorcycle action game tasks players with gathering slime-like creatures. Critics argued that its attempt to recreate a unique feel ultimately fell flat, coming across as more of a quick spin-off than a worthy series entry. Its 3-hour duration combined with a premium price raised eyebrows.
5. Captain Blood
Aggregate Score: 50, User Score: 5.3
This title is a curious artifact from the mid-2000s, launched after a very long time in development hell. The publishers consciously chose to keep the game as an authentic artifact of its time, fully aware that modern gamers might not appreciate its retro feel. As such, many reviews remarked that the fascinating story of its development was more compelling than the actual gameplay.
4. Scar-Lead
Aggregate Score: 44, Audience Score: 2.4
This anime-art third-person shooter inspired by games like *Returnal* disappointed with critics. The main issues were bland enemy design, monotonous stage design, and a snoozy narrative. A particular feature involving the character's attire was widely panned and detracted from the game's enjoyment.
3. Ambulance Life
Aggregate Score: 44, Audience Score: 4.9
Recall the strategic medical sims of the past, then take out the satisfying gameplay. That, according to reviews, is roughly *Ambulance Life*. Critics found the ambulance-driving sequences to be a slog, and the treatment of mental health topics was criticized as being poorly executed. The overall experience was deemed a missed opportunity.
2. Tamagotchi Plaza
Metascore: 43, User Score: 5.8
This new direction for the classic virtual pet formula transforms the franchise into a minigame collection title. The result, according to critics, was a dull collection of simple minigames that quickly overstayed its welcome. Some reviews went so far as to label it one of the most disappointing titles available on its platform, citing a complete absence of engaging content.
1. MindsEye
Metascore: 37, User Score: 2.5
Intended to be a high-profile GTA-style title from a ex-Rockstar veteran's industry veterans, *MindsEye* was a spectacular disappointment. Reviews savaged its lousy combat, boring plot, and a multitude of horrendous bugs. Many found it to be a downgrade compared to decades-old games in the similar style. Amidst the sea of negativity, a few of optimistic players found fun in the experience, serving as a distinct counterpoint.
