Across the internet, fans are quick to share their lists of the greatest releases of 2025. However, what of the flops, the low achievers? We'll take a moment to recognize the lowest-rated games of the year, as determined by review aggregator Metacritic. Is every one of these games as bad as the ratings suggest? Let's find out.
10. Switch 2's Welcome Tour
Aggregate Score: 54/100, Audience Score: 3.4/10
The early response to this showcase title were heavily influenced by its $9.99 price tag, with many expressing disappointment it wasn't a bundled game like competing console launches. Critical opinion was quite mixed, from scathing critiques to somewhat forgiving appraisals that highlighted the charming software itself. In spite of the debate, the title proved to be a surprisingly robust commercial performer during its launch month.
9. Rennsport
Metascore: 53/100, Audience Score: 3.2/10
Marketed as "beyond a racing game," this simulation from Competition Company and Teyon received largely negative reviews. The consensus was that the game was lacking in key areas, especially in a year filled with high-quality racing games. In the eyes of critics, this underwhelming entry was better off left on the shelf.
8. The Purrfect Bubsy Collection
Aggregate Score: 53/100, Audience Score: 8.6/10
Before we start: the confusing punctuation is a notable annoyance. This collection of SNES and PS1 mascot platformers showcases a "attitude"-filled feline known for incessant quips. The consensus was that these games haven't aged well originally and feel dated with age. The improbably high user score stands as a baffling contrast to the professional reviews.
7. Hunter x Hunter: Nen x Impact
Metascore: 53, Audience Score: 3.5
This manga-based fighting game faced widespread disappointment from both reviewers and fans. It was lambasted for a small fighter lineup and a minimal offering of features. User reviews was especially negative, with some stating a desire that the title's failure would have consequences for the developers.
6. Riders Vs Dogoos
Metascore: 51, Audience Score: 5.3
A part of the anime-style Hyperdimension Neptunia series, this motorcycle action game tasks players with rounding up Dogoos. Critics argued that its effort to mimic a *Katamari Damacy*-like gameplay loop didn't land, coming across as more of a quick spin-off than a substantial Neptunia game. Its brief runtime combined with a full retail cost raised eyebrows.
5. Captain Blood
Metascore: 50, Audience Score: 5.3
This title is a curious artifact from the past, launched after a very long time in development hell. The developers made the decision to preserve the game as an original product of its time, acknowledging that modern gamers might not appreciate its dated design. As such, many reviews noted that the interesting history of its resurrection was more interesting than the end product.
4. Salvation
Aggregate Score: 44, User Score: 2.4
This anime-styled roguelike shooter inspired by games like *Returnal* fell flat with critics. Frequent criticisms centered on uninspired foes, monotonous stage design, and a forgettable story. A particular feature involving the protagonist's clothing was universally disliked and detracted from the game's enjoyment.
3. Paramedic Simulator
Aggregate Score: 44, User Score: 4.9
Think of the strategic medical sims of the past, then remove the satisfying gameplay. That, according to reviews, is pretty much *Ambulance Life*. Critics found the core gameplay loop to be monotonous, 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 new direction for the classic digital companion formula turns the franchise into a town-management title. The result, according to critics, was a vapid series of simple minigames that quickly overstayed its welcome. Some reviews went so far as to label it one of the most disappointing titles available on its platform, noting a profound lack of depth.
1. MindsEye
Aggregate Score: 37, User Score: 2.5
Arriving as a high-profile crime saga from a ex-Rockstar veteran's well-known figures, *MindsEye* was a catastrophic disappointment. Reviews savaged its poor shooting mechanics, boring plot, and a multitude of technical problems. Critics found it to be a downgrade compared to previous-generation games in the action genre. Amidst the sea of negativity, a small handful of positive user reviews found something to enjoy in the experience, providing a lonely contrast.
