At every turn, fans are foaming at the mouth to post their lists of the best games of 2025. But what about the flops, the underperformers? Let's take a moment to examine the most panned games of the year, according to the aggregate scores from Metacritic. Could each of these games as bad as the ratings suggest? We shall see.
10. Nintendo Switch 2 Welcome Tour
Aggregate Score: 54/100, Audience Score: 3.4/10
The early response to this tech demo were shaped by its $9.99 price tag, with many voicing frustration it wasn't a complimentary title like similar console launches. Reviewer sentiment varied dramatically, from scathing critiques to slightly kinder appraisals that noted the delightful software itself. In spite of the controversy, 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 "more than a racing game," this simulation from Competition Company and Teyon garnered pretty unanimous reviews. Reviews pointed out that the game fell short in almost every category, notably in a year packed with stellar racing games. Ultimately, this sputtering stinker was better off left on the shelf.
8. Bubsy's Purrfect Collection
Metascore: 53/100, User Score: 8.6/10
To begin with: the confusing colon usage is a minor strike against it. This compilation of SNES and PS1 platforming games features a rude feline known for incessant hacky one-liners. Critics observed that these games haven't aged well to begin with and have not improved with age. The notably positive user score remains a peculiar anomaly to the Metascore.
7. Hunter x Hunter: Nen x Impact
Aggregate Score: 53, Audience Score: 3.5
This manga-based fighting game faced harsh criticism from both professionals and the dedicated community. It was lambasted for a thin roster of characters and a minimal offering of content. Player sentiment was particularly harsh, with some stating a wish that the title's poor performance would have consequences for future projects.
6. Neptunia Riders Vs Dogoos
Metascore: 51, Audience Score: 5.3
Based on the quirky Hyperdimension Neptunia series, this bike-riding title tasks players with gathering Dogoos. Reviewers felt that its goal to channel a unique feel didn't land, coming across as more of a cash grab than a worthy addition to the franchise. Its short length combined with a full retail cost seemed like a bold choice.
5. Captain Blood
Metascore: 50, Audience Score: 5.3
This title is a resurrected relic from the mid-2000s, finally released after years and years in development hell. The developers made the decision to keep the game as an authentic product of its time, acknowledging that modern gamers might dislike its retro feel. As such, many reviews concluded that the fascinating story of its journey was more compelling than the game itself.
4. Scar-Lead Salvation
Aggregate Score: 44, User Score: 2.4
This anime-art third-person shooter modeled after games like *Returnal* fell flat with critics. The main issues included uninspired foes, samey environments, and a unengaging plot. A particular feature involving the protagonist's clothing was universally disliked and detracted from the game's overall experience.
3. Ambulance Life
Metascore: 44, User Score: 4.9
Recall the tense medical sims of the past, then remove the memorable characters. That, according to reviews, is essentially *Ambulance Life*. Critics found the core gameplay loop to be a slog, and the story's portrayal of mental health topics was criticized as being insensitive. The overall experience was deemed not very compelling.
2. Tamagotchi Plaza
Aggregate Score: 43, Audience Score: 5.8
This new direction for the classic virtual pet formula makes the franchise into a shopping simulation title. The result, according to critics, was a unsatisfying assortment of basic activities 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, noting a dearth of engaging content.
1. MindsEye
Metascore: 37, User Score: 2.5
Positioned as a major crime saga from a studio led by industry veterans, *MindsEye* was a spectacular critical flop. Reviews savaged its weak action, dull missions, and a multitude of game-breaking glitches. Several found it to be a downgrade compared to much older games in the action genre. Among the scathing reviews, a small handful of optimistic players found something to enjoy in the experience, providing a distinct vote of confidence.
