Everywhere you look, gamers are quick to share their selections of the top titles of 2025. But what about the stinkers, the underperformers? It's time to take a moment to recognize the lowest-rated games of the year, as determined by the critical consensus on Metacritic. Is every one of these games truly as terrible as their scores suggest? Here is the list.
10. Welcome Tour for Switch 2
Aggregate Score: 54/100, User Score: 3.4/10
The early response to this pack-in experience were heavily influenced by its $9.99 price tag, with many voicing frustration it wasn't a free pack-in like similar console launches. Professional assessment spanned a wide spectrum, from "crushing disappointment" to somewhat forgiving takes that noted the delightful software underneath the controversy. Despite the grumbling, the title proved to be a surprisingly robust commercial performer during its launch month.
9. Rennsport
Metascore: 53/100, User Score: 3.2/10
Presented as "beyond a racing game," this simulation from studios in Germany and Poland was met with largely negative reviews. The consensus was that the game was lacking in key areas, especially in a year featuring high-quality racing experiences. Ultimately, this disappointing sim was advised to be left on the shelf.
8. The Purrfect Bubsy Collection
Metascore: 53/100, User Score: 8.6/10
First things first: the awkward title grammar is a notable annoyance. This compilation of retro mascot platformers showcases a "attitude"-filled feline known for constant hacky one-liners. Reviewers noted that these games were mediocre to begin with and feel dated with age. The notably positive user score remains a peculiar anomaly to the Metascore.
7. Hunter x Hunter Fighting Game
Metascore: 53, User Score: 3.5
This *Hunter x Hunter* brawler faced harsh criticism from both reviewers and players. It was lambasted for a small fighter lineup and a severe lack of gameplay modes. Player sentiment was particularly harsh, with some stating a hope that the title's failure would have consequences for future projects.
6. Neptunia Riders Vs Dogoos
Aggregate Score: 51, User Score: 5.3
A part of the niche Hyperdimension Neptunia series, this vehicle combat game tasks players with gathering slime-like creatures. Critics argued that its attempt to recreate a rolling-collection experience was unsuccessful, coming across as more of a cash grab than a meaningful series entry. Its short length combined with a full retail cost seemed like a bold choice.
5. Captain Blood
Metascore: 50, User Score: 5.3
This title is a curious artifact from the past, finally released after nearly two decades in legal limbo. The developers made the decision to preserve the game as an period-accurate artifact of its time, accepting that contemporary players might dislike its dated design. As such, many reviews noted that the fascinating story of its journey was more interesting than the end product.
4. Scar-Lead Salvation
Metascore: 44, User Score: 2.4
This anime-art roguelike shooter inspired by 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 character's attire was seen as adding nothing and took away from the game's potential charm.
3. Ambulance Life: A Paramedic Simulator
Metascore: 44, Audience Score: 4.9
Think of the tense medical sims of the past, then strip away the compelling story. That, according to reviews, is pretty much *Ambulance Life*. Reviewers found the emergency response sections to be tedious and repetitive, and the narrative's handling of mental health topics was criticized as being tone-deaf. The overall experience was deemed not very compelling.
2. Tamagotchi Plaza
Metascore: 43, Audience Score: 5.8
This new direction for the classic virtual pet formula turns the franchise into a shopping simulation title. The result, according to critics, was a vapid collection of simple minigames that very soon overstayed its welcome. Some reviews went so far as to label it one of the worst titles available on its platform, citing a profound lack of depth.
1. MindsEye
Metascore: 37, Audience Score: 2.5
Positioned as a high-profile crime saga from a ex-Rockstar veteran's experienced developers, *MindsEye* was a notable disappointment. Reviews universally panned its lousy combat, uninspired storytelling, and a host of technical problems. Many found it to be a significant step back compared to previous-generation games in the same genre. Despite the overwhelming criticism, a small handful of positive user reviews found fun in the experience, serving as a distinct contrast.
