At every turn, enthusiasts are eagerly sharing their rankings of the best games of 2025. Yet, where are the stinkers, the low achievers? We'll take a moment to honor the absolute worst games of the year, according to review aggregator Metacritic. Could each of these games truly as terrible as the reviews suggest? Let's find out.
10. Switch 2's Welcome Tour
Metascore: 54/100, User 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 free pack-in like similar console launches. Reviewer sentiment varied dramatically, from "crushing disappointment" to more generous reviews that highlighted the delightful software underneath the controversy. Regardless of the grumbling, the title proved to be a notable commercial performer during its launch month.
9. Rennsport
Metascore: 53/100, Audience Score: 3.2/10
Billed as "more than a racing game," this driving sim from Competition Company and Teyon received largely negative reviews. Critics noted that the game fell short in key areas, particularly in a year featuring stellar racing experiences. Ultimately, this disappointing sim was best left in the garage.
8. Bubsy in: The Purrfect Collection
Metascore: 53/100, Audience Score: 8.6/10
Before we start: the confusing punctuation is a minor annoyance. This anthology of SNES and PS1 mascot platformers showcases a "attitude"-filled feline known for constant jokes. Critics observed that these games were not good to begin with and have not improved with age. The surprisingly strong user score stands as a baffling anomaly to the critical reception.
7. Nen x Impact
Aggregate Score: 53, User Score: 3.5
This anime-inspired fighting game encountered widespread disappointment from both reviewers and the dedicated community. Complaints centered on a thin fighter lineup and a dearth of content. Player sentiment was especially vitriolic, with some expressing a hope that the title's flop would serve as a lesson for future projects.
6. Riders Vs Dogoos
Aggregate Score: 51, User Score: 5.3
Based on the anime-style Hyperdimension Neptunia series, this bike-riding title tasks players with gathering Dogoos. The assessment was that its goal to channel a unique experience didn't land, coming across as more of a quick spin-off than a meaningful series entry. Its 3-hour duration combined with a $40 price tag seemed like a bold choice.
5. Captain Blood
Metascore: 50, User Score: 5.3
This title is a resurrected relic from the Xbox era, seeing the light of day after a very long time in production delays. The publishers consciously chose to release the game as an original experience of its time, accepting that modern gamers might not appreciate its retro feel. As such, many reviews remarked that the fascinating story of its journey was more compelling than the game itself.
4. Scar-Lead
Aggregate Score: 44, User Score: 2.4
This anime-styled action game modeled after games like *Returnal* disappointed with critics. The main issues included uninspired foes, repetitive levels, and a snoozy narrative. A particular feature involving the protagonist's clothing was universally disliked and took away from the game's overall experience.
3. Ambulance Life
Metascore: 44, User Score: 4.9
Recall the strategic 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 a slog, 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 shift away from the classic virtual pet formula transforms the franchise into a shopping simulation title. The result, based on critics, was a vapid collection of repetitive tasks that very soon overstayed its welcome. Some reviews went so far as to declare it one of the worst titles available on its platform, pointing to a dearth of engaging content.
1. MindsEye
Metascore: 37, User Score: 2.5
Intended to be a blockbuster crime saga from a team featuring industry veterans, *MindsEye* was a catastrophic commercial failure. Reviews heavily criticized its lousy combat, boring plot, and a multitude of horrendous bugs. Several found it to be a regression compared to decades-old games in the same genre. Amidst the sea of negativity, a few of fans found fun in the experience, offering a rare vote of confidence.
