Across the internet, enthusiasts are quick to share their selections of the top titles of 2025. But what about the flops, the failures? It's time to take a few moments to recognize the absolute worst games of the year, based on the aggregate scores from Metacritic. Could each of these games as bad as the reviews 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 colored by its $9.99 price tag, with many expressing disappointment it wasn't a free pack-in like similar console launches. Professional assessment spanned a wide spectrum, from "crushing disappointment" to more generous takes that praised the delightful software itself. In spite of the grumbling, the title proved to be a strong commercial performer during its launch month.
9. Rennsport
Metascore: 53/100, User Score: 3.2/10
Billed as "more than a racing game," this simulation from European developers received overwhelmingly poor reviews. Critics noted that the game felt unfinished in nearly every way, particularly in a year packed with stellar racing titles. Ultimately, this sputtering stinker was advised to be left unplayed.
8. Bubsy in: The Purrfect Collection
Metascore: 53/100, Audience Score: 8.6/10
To begin with: the irritating colon usage is a minor point of contention. This anthology of retro mascot platformers revives a "attitude"-filled feline known for incessant hacky one-liners. The consensus was that these games were not good to begin with and have not improved with age. The improbably high user score stands as a peculiar anomaly to the Metascore.
7. Hunter x Hunter Fighting Game
Metascore: 53, User Score: 3.5
This *Hunter x Hunter* fighter faced significant backlash from both professionals and fans. Complaints centered on a small fighter lineup and a minimal offering of content. Fan reaction was especially harsh, with some stating a desire that the title's poor performance would have consequences for the developers.
6. Riders Vs Dogoos
Aggregate Score: 51, User Score: 5.3
Hailing from the niche Hyperdimension Neptunia series, this motorcycle action game tasks players with gathering Dogoos. Critics argued that its goal to mimic a *Katamari Damacy*-like feel didn't land, coming across as more of a cash grab than a worthy addition to the franchise. Its 3-hour duration combined with a $40 price tag seemed like a bold choice.
5. Captain Blood
Aggregate Score: 50, Audience Score: 5.3
This title is a curious artifact from the past, finally released after years and years in legal limbo. The developers consciously chose to keep the game as an period-accurate experience of its time, fully aware that today's audiences might not appreciate its dated design. As such, many reviews noted that the fascinating story of its journey was more compelling than the end product.
4. Salvation
Aggregate Score: 44, Audience Score: 2.4
This anime-styled third-person shooter drawing from games like *Returnal* disappointed with critics. Frequent criticisms were bland enemy design, monotonous stage design, and a unengaging plot. A particular feature involving the protagonist's clothing was seen as adding nothing and detracted from the game's enjoyment.
3. Ambulance Life
Metascore: 44, Audience Score: 4.9
Recall the engaging surgery games of the past, then take out the memorable characters. That, according to reviews, is essentially *Ambulance Life*. Reviewers found the emergency response sections to be tedious and repetitive, and the treatment of mental health topics was criticized as being insensitive. The overall experience was deemed largely unsatisfying.
2. Tamagotchi Plaza
Metascore: 43, Audience Score: 5.8
This new direction for the classic virtual pet formula makes the franchise into a town-management title. The result, per critics, was a unsatisfying assortment of basic activities that quickly became boring. Some reviews went so far as to label it one of the worst titles available on its platform, citing a complete absence of satisfying gameplay.
1. MindsEye
Aggregate Score: 37, User Score: 2.5
Arriving as a major crime saga from a studio led by industry veterans, *MindsEye* was a catastrophic disappointment. Reviews universally panned its weak action, boring plot, and a host of technical problems. Critics found it to be a significant step back compared to much older games in the same genre. Despite the sea of negativity, a tiny number of positive user reviews found fun in the experience, offering a distinct contrast.
