Across the internet, fans are quick to share their selections of the top titles of 2025. However, what of the stinkers, the failures? Let's take a moment to recognize the most panned games of the year, as determined by review aggregator Metacritic. Is every one of these games truly as terrible as their scores suggest? Let's find out.
10. Switch 2's Welcome Tour
Aggregate Score: 54/100, Audience Score: 3.4/10
Initial reactions to this tech demo were colored by its $9.99 price tag, with many voicing frustration it wasn't a bundled game like competing console launches. Professional assessment was quite mixed, from "crushing disappointment" to somewhat forgiving reviews that noted the charming software itself. Despite the grumbling, the title proved to be a strong commercial performer during its launch month.
9. Rennsport
Metascore: 53/100, User Score: 3.2/10
Marketed as "more than a racing game," this driving sim from Competition Company and Teyon received overwhelmingly poor reviews. The consensus was that the game was lacking in almost every category, particularly in a year filled with excellent racing games. For many, this sputtering stinker was better off left on the shelf.
8. The Purrfect Bubsy Collection
Metascore: 53/100, Audience Score: 8.6/10
First things first: the confusing colon usage is a notable annoyance. This compilation of 1990s-era mascot platformers showcases a "attitude"-filled feline known for non-stop quips. Reviewers noted that these games haven't aged well originally and feel dated with age. The surprisingly strong user score remains a peculiar oddity to the Metascore.
7. Hunter x Hunter Fighting Game
Aggregate Score: 53, User Score: 3.5
This manga-based brawler encountered widespread disappointment from both reviewers and players. Complaints centered on a thin fighter lineup and a dearth of content. Player sentiment was especially negative, with some stating a hope that the title's flop would have consequences for similar releases.
6. Riders Vs Dogoos
Aggregate Score: 51, User Score: 5.3
Hailing from the niche Hyperdimension Neptunia series, this motorcycle action game tasks players with rounding up Dogoos. Critics argued that its attempt to recreate a unique gameplay loop ultimately fell flat, coming across as more of a quick spin-off than a worthy Neptunia game. Its short length combined with a premium price was criticized.
5. Captain Blood
Aggregate Score: 50, User Score: 5.3
This title is a resurrected relic from the past, finally released after a very long time in production delays. The publishers opted to release the game as an original experience of its time, accepting that today's audiences might criticize its retro feel. As such, many reviews noted that the tale of its resurrection was far richer than the actual gameplay.
4. Scar-Lead
Metascore: 44, Audience Score: 2.4
This anime-styled third-person shooter drawing from games like *Returnal* disappointed with critics. Common complaints included bland enemy design, samey environments, and a unengaging plot. A much-criticized system involving the outfit degradation was universally disliked and took away from the game's overall experience.
3. Ambulance Life
Metascore: 44, User Score: 4.9
Recall the engaging surgery games of the past, then strip away the compelling story. That, according to reviews, is roughly *Ambulance Life*. Players found the ambulance-driving sequences to be a slog, and the treatment of mental health topics was criticized as being poorly executed. The overall experience was deemed a missed opportunity.
2. Tamagotchi Plaza
Aggregate Score: 43, User Score: 5.8
This shift away from the classic digital companion formula makes the franchise into a town-management title. The result, per critics, was a vapid series of simple minigames that quickly overstayed its welcome. Some reviews went so far as to declare it one of the worst titles available on its platform, pointing to a complete absence of satisfying gameplay.
1. MindsEye
Metascore: 37, Audience Score: 2.5
Arriving as a blockbuster crime saga from a team featuring industry veterans, *MindsEye* was a spectacular commercial failure. Reviews heavily criticized its weak action, uninspired storytelling, and a multitude of technical problems. Many found it to be a downgrade compared to much older games in the similar style. Among the scathing reviews, a few of optimistic players found fun in the experience, offering a distinct vote of confidence.
