At every turn, fans are foaming at the mouth to post their lists of the top releases of 2025. However, what of the stinkers, the underperformers? We'll take a moment to honor the absolute worst games of the year, based on the critical consensus on Metacritic. Could each of these games as bad as the ratings 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 feeling cheesed off it wasn't a bundled game like some other console launches. Critical opinion varied dramatically, from harsh disappointment to more generous takes that highlighted the delightful software itself. In spite of the controversy, the title proved to be a strong digital seller during its launch month.
9. Rennsport
Metascore: 53/100, Audience Score: 3.2/10
Billed as "not just a racing game," this simulation from Competition Company and Teyon received largely negative reviews. Critics noted that the game fell short in key areas, particularly in a year featuring excellent racing experiences. In the eyes of critics, this sputtering stinker 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 colon usage is a notable point of contention. This collection of retro platforming games features a rude feline known for non-stop jokes. Reviewers noted that these games were mediocre to begin with and haven't gotten better with age. The notably positive user score stands as a baffling oddity to the professional reviews.
7. Hunter x Hunter Fighting Game
Aggregate Score: 53, User Score: 3.5
This anime-inspired fighting game faced harsh criticism from both critics and the dedicated community. Complaints centered on a thin fighter lineup and a severe lack of features. Fan reaction was especially negative, with some expressing a wish that the title's poor performance would have consequences for similar releases.
6. Riders Vs Dogoos
Aggregate Score: 51, Audience Score: 5.3
Hailing from the niche Hyperdimension Neptunia series, this bike-riding title tasks players with rounding up Dogoos. The assessment was that its goal to recreate a *Katamari Damacy*-like feel ultimately fell flat, coming across as more of a quick spin-off than a substantial Neptunia game. Its 3-hour duration 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, finally released after years and years in production delays. The publishers opted to release the game as an period-accurate artifact of its time, accepting that today's audiences might not appreciate its dated design. As such, many reviews noted that the fascinating story of its resurrection was far richer than the game itself.
4. Salvation
Metascore: 44, Audience Score: 2.4
This anime-art roguelike shooter modeled after games like *Returnal* failed to impress with critics. Frequent criticisms centered on repetitive adversaries, samey environments, and a snoozy narrative. A particular feature involving the protagonist's clothing was universally disliked and undermined the game's enjoyment.
3. Ambulance Life
Metascore: 44, User Score: 4.9
Think of the strategic medical sims of the past, then take out the compelling story. That, according to reviews, is essentially *Ambulance Life*. Reviewers found the ambulance-driving sequences to be monotonous, and the story's portrayal of its subject matter 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 shopping simulation title. The result, per critics, was a dull assortment of repetitive tasks that very soon overstayed its welcome. Some reviews went so far as to declare it one of the most disappointing titles available on its platform, citing a dearth of engaging content.
1. MindsEye
Aggregate Score: 37, User Score: 2.5
Arriving as a high-profile crime saga from a studio led by experienced developers, *MindsEye* was a catastrophic disappointment. Reviews savaged its weak action, boring plot, and a host of game-breaking glitches. Critics found it to be a regression compared to decades-old games in the similar style. Among the sea of negativity, a tiny number of positive user reviews found value in the experience, offering a lonely counterpoint.
