At every turn, fans are eagerly sharing their lists of the best titles of 2025. But what about the stinkers, the failures? Let's take a moment to recognize the most panned games of the year, as determined by review aggregator Metacritic. Are all of these games as bad as the reviews suggest? Let's find out.
10. Switch 2's Welcome Tour
Aggregate Score: 54/100, User Score: 3.4/10
Initial reactions to this showcase title were shaped by its $9.99 price tag, with many expressing disappointment it wasn't a complimentary title like some other console launches. Professional assessment spanned a wide spectrum, from scathing critiques to somewhat forgiving reviews that praised the delightful software underneath the controversy. In spite of the grumbling, the title proved to be a notable seller during its launch month.
9. Rennsport
Metascore: 53/100, Audience Score: 3.2/10
Marketed as "beyond a racing game," this vroom-vroom title from European developers received pretty unanimous reviews. The consensus was that the game fell short in almost every category, notably in a year packed with high-quality racing experiences. For many, this disappointing sim was advised to be left on the shelf.
8. Bubsy in: The Purrfect Collection
Metascore: 53/100, Audience Score: 8.6/10
First things first: the awkward title grammar is a silly point of contention. This anthology of SNES and PS1 mascot platformers showcases a sarcastic feline known for incessant hacky one-liners. Reviewers noted that these games haven't aged well originally and feel dated with age. The notably positive user score remains a baffling contrast to the Metascore.
7. Hunter x Hunter Fighting Game
Metascore: 53, Audience Score: 3.5
This anime-inspired fighting game faced widespread disappointment from both reviewers and players. Complaints centered on a small roster of characters and a dearth of features. Fan reaction was particularly vitriolic, with some stating a wish that the title's poor performance would have consequences for the developers.
6. Riders Vs Dogoos
Aggregate Score: 51, User Score: 5.3
A part of the quirky Hyperdimension Neptunia series, this vehicle combat game tasks players with gathering Dogoos. The assessment was that its effort to mimic a *Katamari Damacy*-like feel was unsuccessful, coming across as more of a cash grab than a substantial series entry. Its short length combined with a full retail cost seemed like a bold choice.
5. Captain Blood
Metascore: 50, User Score: 5.3
This title is a resurrected relic from the mid-2000s, launched after a very long time in production delays. The team behind it opted to keep the game as an original product of its time, fully aware that contemporary players might not appreciate its dated design. As such, many reviews remarked that the tale of its development was more compelling than the game itself.
4. Scar-Lead Salvation
Aggregate Score: 44, User Score: 2.4
This anime-styled roguelike shooter drawing from games like *Returnal* fell flat with critics. Common complaints centered on uninspired foes, monotonous stage design, and a forgettable story. A much-criticized system involving the outfit degradation was widely panned and detracted from the game's potential charm.
3. Paramedic Simulator
Aggregate Score: 44, Audience Score: 4.9
Imagine the engaging surgery games of the past, then remove 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 not very compelling.
2. Tamagotchi Plaza
Metascore: 43, User Score: 5.8
This departure from the classic virtual pet formula makes the franchise into a shopping simulation title. The result, based on critics, was a dull series of repetitive tasks that quickly grew tiresome. Some reviews went so far as to call it one of the most disappointing titles available on its platform, pointing to a profound lack of depth.
1. MindsEye
Metascore: 37, User Score: 2.5
Intended to be a major crime saga from a ex-Rockstar veteran's well-known figures, *MindsEye* was a notable critical flop. Reviews universally panned its poor shooting mechanics, dull missions, and a host of game-breaking glitches. Several found it to be a downgrade compared to much older games in the similar style. Among the scathing reviews, a tiny number of fans found fun in the experience, providing a lonely vote of confidence.
