At every turn, gamers are quick to share their selections of the top releases of 2025. Yet, where are the stinkers, the underperformers? We'll take a few moments to recognize the lowest-rated games of the year, as determined by the critical consensus on Metacritic. Is every one of these games as bad as the ratings suggest? Let's find out.
10. Switch 2's Welcome Tour
Aggregate Score: 54/100, User Score: 3.4/10
First impressions to this showcase title were shaped by its $9.99 price tag, with many voicing frustration it wasn't a complimentary title like competing console launches. Reviewer sentiment was quite mixed, from "crushing disappointment" to more generous takes that highlighted the charming software itself. Despite the controversy, the title proved to be a strong commercial performer during its launch month.
9. Rennsport
Metascore: 53/100, Audience Score: 3.2/10
Billed as "more than a racing game," this vroom-vroom title from studios in Germany and Poland was met with pretty unanimous reviews. The consensus was that the game felt unfinished in almost every category, particularly in a year filled with stellar racing titles. Ultimately, this underwhelming entry was better off left in the garage.
8. Bubsy's Purrfect Collection
Aggregate Score: 53/100, User Score: 8.6/10
First things first: the confusing punctuation is a notable annoyance. This anthology of 1990s-era platforming games showcases a rude feline known for non-stop quips. Critics observed that these games haven't aged well to begin with and have not improved with age. The surprisingly strong user score stands as a baffling contrast to the Metascore.
7. Hunter x Hunter Fighting Game
Aggregate Score: 53, Audience Score: 3.5
This anime-inspired fighter encountered harsh criticism from both reviewers and players. Issues included a limited roster of characters and a severe lack of gameplay modes. Player sentiment was particularly negative, with some expressing a hope that the title's flop would serve as a lesson for similar releases.
6. Riders Vs Dogoos
Metascore: 51, User Score: 5.3
A part of the niche Hyperdimension Neptunia series, this motorcycle action game tasks players with rounding up slime-like creatures. Critics argued that its goal to mimic a unique feel ultimately fell flat, coming across as more of a low-effort product than a meaningful addition to the franchise. Its short length combined with a full retail cost raised eyebrows.
5. Captain Blood
Aggregate Score: 50, User Score: 5.3
This title is a piece of lost media from the Xbox era, finally released after years and years in legal limbo. The publishers opted to preserve the game as an original experience of its time, accepting that today's audiences might criticize its dated design. As such, many reviews noted that the tale of its development was more compelling than the actual gameplay.
4. Salvation
Aggregate Score: 44, User Score: 2.4
This anime-art roguelike shooter drawing from games like *Returnal* failed to impress with critics. The main issues were uninspired foes, monotonous stage design, and a unengaging plot. A particular feature involving the character's attire was seen as adding nothing and detracted from the game's potential charm.
3. Paramedic Simulator
Metascore: 44, Audience Score: 4.9
Recall the tense surgery games of the past, then remove the memorable characters. That, according to reviews, is essentially *Ambulance Life*. Reviewers found the emergency response sections to be a slog, and the treatment of mental health topics was criticized as being insensitive. The overall experience was deemed a missed opportunity.
2. Tamagotchi Plaza
Aggregate Score: 43, Audience Score: 5.8
This shift away from the classic virtual pet formula transforms the franchise into a minigame collection title. The result, according to critics, was a vapid assortment of simple minigames that quickly grew tiresome. Some reviews went so far as to call 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
Positioned as a blockbuster GTA-style title from a team featuring well-known figures, *MindsEye* was a catastrophic disappointment. Reviews heavily criticized its weak action, dull missions, and a multitude of technical problems. Many found it to be a regression compared to much older games in the similar style. Among the overwhelming criticism, a small handful of positive user reviews found value in the experience, offering a lonely contrast.
