At every turn, enthusiasts are eagerly sharing their lists of the top games of 2025. However, what of the stinkers, the underperformers? Let's take a momentary detour to recognize the absolute worst games of the year, according to the aggregate scores from Metacritic. Could each of these games as bad as their scores suggest? Here is the list.
10. Nintendo Switch 2 Welcome Tour
Aggregate Score: 54/100, Audience Score: 3.4/10
First impressions to this showcase title were heavily influenced by its $9.99 price tag, with many feeling cheesed off it wasn't a complimentary title like some other console launches. Professional assessment was quite mixed, from scathing critiques to somewhat forgiving appraisals that noted the delightful software underneath the controversy. In spite of the grumbling, the title proved to be a notable commercial performer during its launch month.
9. Rennsport
Aggregate Score: 53/100, User Score: 3.2/10
Presented as "not just a racing game," this driving sim from European developers garnered overwhelmingly poor reviews. Reviews pointed out that the game fell short in almost every category, especially in a year featuring stellar racing titles. For many, this disappointing sim was best left unplayed.
8. Bubsy's Purrfect Collection
Aggregate Score: 53/100, User Score: 8.6/10
Before we start: the awkward title grammar is a notable point of contention. This anthology of SNES and PS1 platforming games features a rude feline known for incessant quips. The consensus was that these games haven't aged well to begin with and have not improved with age. The improbably high user score stands as a baffling contrast to the critical reception.
7. Hunter x Hunter Fighting Game
Metascore: 53, Audience Score: 3.5
This *Hunter x Hunter* brawler faced widespread disappointment from both reviewers and players. Issues included a small fighter lineup and a dearth of gameplay modes. Fan reaction was particularly negative, with some stating a hope that the title's flop would have consequences for the developers.
6. Neptunia Motorcycle Game
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 recreate a unique experience was unsuccessful, coming across as more of a quick spin-off than a worthy series entry. Its brief runtime 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 mid-2000s, seeing the light of day after a very long time in production delays. The publishers consciously chose to release the game as an period-accurate product of its time, acknowledging that today's audiences might dislike its dated design. As such, many reviews concluded that the tale of its resurrection was more interesting than the end product.
4. Scar-Lead
Aggregate Score: 44, Audience Score: 2.4
This anime-styled roguelike shooter drawing from games like *Returnal* failed to impress with critics. Common complaints were bland enemy design, samey environments, and a snoozy narrative. A much-criticized system involving the outfit degradation was seen as adding nothing and undermined the game's overall experience.
3. Ambulance Life
Metascore: 44, Audience Score: 4.9
Recall the engaging medical sims of the past, then take out the memorable characters. That, according to reviews, is roughly *Ambulance Life*. Players found the emergency response sections to be tedious and repetitive, and the treatment of serious themes was criticized as being insensitive. The overall experience was deemed a missed opportunity.
2. Tamagotchi Plaza
Aggregate Score: 43, User Score: 5.8
This departure from the classic digital companion formula transforms the franchise into a minigame collection title. The result, according to critics, was a vapid assortment of basic activities that rapidly grew tiresome. Some reviews went so far as to call it one of the worst titles available on its platform, pointing to a profound lack of engaging content.
1. MindsEye
Metascore: 37, Audience Score: 2.5
Intended to be a blockbuster GTA-style title from a ex-Rockstar veteran's well-known figures, *MindsEye* was a spectacular critical flop. Reviews heavily criticized its poor shooting mechanics, boring plot, and a plethora of horrendous bugs. Several found it to be a downgrade compared to much older games in the similar style. Amidst the sea of negativity, a few of positive user reviews found value in the experience, offering a lonely counterpoint.
