Across the internet, gamers are eagerly sharing their lists of the greatest games of 2025. But what about the flops, the underperformers? It's time to take a few moments to recognize the most panned games of the year, based on the critical consensus on Metacritic. Is every one of these games truly as terrible as their scores suggest? Here is the list.
10. Nintendo Switch 2 Welcome Tour
Aggregate Score: 54/100, User Score: 3.4/10
First impressions to this showcase title were colored by its $9.99 price tag, with many voicing frustration it wasn't a free pack-in like similar console launches. Critical opinion spanned a wide spectrum, from "crushing disappointment" to somewhat forgiving takes that praised the charming software underneath the controversy. Despite the debate, the title proved to be a notable seller during its launch month.
9. Rennsport
Aggregate Score: 53/100, User Score: 3.2/10
Billed as "beyond a racing game," this vroom-vroom title from studios in Germany and Poland was met with largely negative reviews. Reviews pointed out that the game was lacking in key areas, notably in a year featuring stellar racing experiences. Ultimately, this disappointing sim was advised to be left in the garage.
8. Bubsy in: The Purrfect Collection
Metascore: 53/100, Audience Score: 8.6/10
To begin with: the confusing punctuation is a silly strike against it. This compilation of retro mascot platformers showcases a "attitude"-filled feline known for non-stop jokes. The consensus was that these games haven't aged well to begin with and haven't gotten better with age. The improbably high user score stands as a peculiar anomaly to the Metascore.
7. Hunter x Hunter Fighting Game
Metascore: 53, User Score: 3.5
This anime-inspired fighting game encountered harsh criticism from both reviewers and players. It was lambasted for a thin roster of characters and a dearth of gameplay modes. Player sentiment was particularly vitriolic, with some expressing a wish that the title's flop would have consequences for future projects.
6. Riders Vs Dogoos
Aggregate Score: 51, Audience Score: 5.3
Hailing from the quirky Hyperdimension Neptunia series, this motorcycle action game tasks players with collecting slime-like creatures. Reviewers felt that its attempt to channel a rolling-collection experience was unsuccessful, coming across as more of a cash grab than a worthy series entry. Its short length combined with a premium price raised eyebrows.
5. Captain Blood
Metascore: 50, User Score: 5.3
This title is a curious artifact from the Xbox era, finally released after years and years in legal limbo. The developers consciously chose to release the game as an original experience of its time, fully aware that today's audiences might criticize its retro feel. As such, many reviews concluded that the fascinating story of its development was more compelling than the game itself.
4. Salvation
Aggregate Score: 44, Audience Score: 2.4
This anime-styled roguelike shooter inspired by games like *Returnal* disappointed with critics. Common complaints were repetitive adversaries, monotonous stage design, and a unengaging plot. A controversial mechanic involving the protagonist's clothing was universally disliked and detracted from the game's potential charm.
3. Paramedic Simulator
Metascore: 44, Audience Score: 4.9
Recall the strategic medical sims of the past, then remove the compelling story. That, according to reviews, is essentially *Ambulance Life*. Critics found the core gameplay loop to be tedious and repetitive, and the story's portrayal of its subject matter was criticized as being poorly executed. The overall experience was deemed not very compelling.
2. Tamagotchi Plaza
Metascore: 43, User Score: 5.8
This new direction for the classic virtual pet formula transforms the franchise into a shopping simulation title. The result, based on critics, was a vapid collection of basic activities that rapidly became boring. Some reviews went so far as to declare it one of the worst titles available on its platform, noting a complete absence 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 heavily criticized its poor shooting mechanics, dull missions, and a host of game-breaking glitches. Several found it to be a significant step back compared to much older games in the action genre. Amidst the scathing reviews, a small handful of optimistic players found fun in the experience, providing a lonely vote of confidence.
