At every turn, fans are foaming at the mouth to post their selections of the best releases of 2025. Yet, where are the stinkers, the underperformers? Let's take a momentary detour to examine the lowest-rated games of the year, based on review aggregator Metacritic. Is every one of these games as bad as the reviews suggest? Let's find out.
10. Nintendo Switch 2 Welcome Tour
Metascore: 54/100, Audience Score: 3.4/10
First impressions to this showcase title were heavily influenced by its $9.99 price tag, with many voicing frustration it wasn't a complimentary title like competing console launches. Reviewer sentiment varied dramatically, from scathing critiques to somewhat forgiving takes that highlighted the polished software underneath the controversy. In spite 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
Presented as "more than a racing game," this driving sim from Competition Company and Teyon received pretty unanimous reviews. Critics noted that the game was lacking in almost every category, especially in a year featuring excellent racing experiences. For many, this sputtering stinker was better off left unplayed.
8. The Purrfect Bubsy Collection
Aggregate Score: 53/100, User Score: 8.6/10
To begin with: the awkward title grammar is a minor point of contention. This compilation of SNES and PS1 mascot platformers features a "attitude"-filled feline known for non-stop quips. Reviewers noted that these games haven't aged well originally and have not improved with age. The improbably high user score remains a curious contrast to the professional reviews.
7. Hunter x Hunter Fighting Game
Aggregate Score: 53, User Score: 3.5
This anime-inspired fighter encountered widespread disappointment from both reviewers and the dedicated community. Complaints centered on a thin roster of characters and a severe lack of features. User reviews was notably harsh, with some expressing a wish that the title's failure would serve as a lesson for the developers.
6. Riders Vs Dogoos
Metascore: 51, Audience Score: 5.3
Hailing from the quirky Hyperdimension Neptunia series, this bike-riding title tasks players with collecting Dogoos. Critics argued that its effort to channel a rolling-collection gameplay loop didn't land, coming across as more of a quick spin-off than a worthy series entry. Its brief runtime combined with a $40 price tag raised eyebrows.
5. Captain Blood
Metascore: 50, User Score: 5.3
This title is a resurrected relic from the Xbox era, launched after a very long time in legal limbo. The publishers opted to keep the game as an period-accurate product of its time, acknowledging that modern gamers might not appreciate its retro feel. As such, many reviews noted that the tale of its journey was more interesting than the actual gameplay.
4. Salvation
Aggregate Score: 44, User Score: 2.4
This anime-styled third-person shooter drawing from games like *Returnal* failed to impress with critics. Frequent criticisms were repetitive adversaries, monotonous stage design, and a forgettable story. A particular feature involving the outfit degradation was widely panned and took away from the game's potential charm.
3. Ambulance Life
Metascore: 44, User Score: 4.9
Think of the strategic surgery games of the past, then remove the satisfying gameplay. That, according to reviews, is essentially *Ambulance Life*. Players found the core gameplay loop to be monotonous, and the treatment of serious themes was criticized as being poorly executed. The overall experience was deemed largely unsatisfying.
2. Tamagotchi Plaza
Aggregate Score: 43, Audience Score: 5.8
This shift away from the classic virtual pet formula makes the franchise into a shopping simulation title. The result, according to critics, was a vapid assortment of repetitive tasks that rapidly overstayed its welcome. Some reviews went so far as to label it one of the worst titles available on its platform, pointing to a complete absence of depth.
1. MindsEye
Aggregate Score: 37, Audience Score: 2.5
Intended to be a high-profile crime saga from a ex-Rockstar veteran's experienced developers, *MindsEye* was a catastrophic disappointment. Reviews universally panned its weak action, boring plot, and a plethora of horrendous bugs. Several found it to be a significant step back compared to decades-old games in the action genre. Amidst the sea of negativity, a small handful of positive user reviews found fun in the experience, providing a lonely vote of confidence.
