Everywhere you look, fans are foaming at the mouth to post their rankings of the best games of 2025. But what about the disasters, the failures? It's time to take a moment to recognize the most panned games of the year, based on review aggregator Metacritic. Could each of these games as disappointing as the ratings suggest? Here is the list.
10. Nintendo Switch 2 Welcome Tour
Metascore: 54/100, Audience Score: 3.4/10
Initial reactions to this tech demo were shaped by its $9.99 price tag, with many voicing frustration it wasn't a bundled game like competing console launches. Reviewer sentiment varied dramatically, from "crushing disappointment" to more generous reviews that noted the polished software itself. In spite of the controversy, the title proved to be a surprisingly robust digital seller during its launch month.
9. Rennsport
Aggregate Score: 53/100, Audience Score: 3.2/10
Presented as "beyond a racing game," this simulation from European developers received overwhelmingly poor reviews. Critics noted that the game was lacking in key areas, particularly in a year packed with excellent racing experiences. For many, this sputtering stinker was advised to be left in the garage.
8. Bubsy in: The Purrfect Collection
Aggregate Score: 53/100, Audience Score: 8.6/10
To begin with: the irritating colon usage is a notable annoyance. This compilation of retro platforming games features a "attitude"-filled feline known for constant jokes. The consensus was that these games were mediocre to begin with and haven't gotten better with age. The improbably high user score remains a baffling oddity to the Metascore.
7. Nen x Impact
Metascore: 53, User Score: 3.5
This *Hunter x Hunter* fighting game was met with harsh criticism from both critics and fans. Issues included a limited fighter lineup and a minimal offering of gameplay modes. User reviews was especially harsh, with some voicing a desire that the title's failure would serve as a lesson for the developers.
6. Neptunia Motorcycle Game
Aggregate Score: 51, Audience Score: 5.3
Hailing from the quirky Hyperdimension Neptunia series, this bike-riding title tasks players with collecting slime-like creatures. Reviewers felt that its attempt to channel a unique gameplay loop was unsuccessful, coming across as more of a quick spin-off than a substantial addition to the franchise. Its brief runtime combined with a $40 price tag raised eyebrows.
5. Captain Blood
Aggregate Score: 50, Audience Score: 5.3
This title is a piece of lost media from the past, finally released after nearly two decades in production delays. The developers made the decision to release the game as an original product of its time, acknowledging that contemporary players might dislike its retro feel. As such, many reviews remarked that the interesting history of its journey was far richer than the actual gameplay.
4. Salvation
Metascore: 44, User Score: 2.4
This anime-art roguelike shooter inspired by games like *Returnal* disappointed with critics. Common complaints centered on bland enemy design, repetitive levels, and a forgettable story. A particular feature involving the outfit degradation was universally disliked and detracted from the game's enjoyment.
3. Ambulance Life: A Paramedic Simulator
Aggregate Score: 44, Audience 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*. Reviewers found the ambulance-driving sequences to be tedious and repetitive, and the story's portrayal of serious themes was criticized as being insensitive. The overall experience was deemed not very compelling.
2. Tamagotchi Plaza
Metascore: 43, User Score: 5.8
This departure from the classic digital companion formula transforms the franchise into a minigame collection title. The result, according to critics, was a unsatisfying collection of basic activities that very soon overstayed its welcome. Some reviews went so far as to call it one of the lowest-quality titles available on its platform, pointing to a dearth of depth.
1. MindsEye
Aggregate Score: 37, User Score: 2.5
Positioned as a major open-world action game from a ex-Rockstar veteran's industry veterans, *MindsEye* was a notable disappointment. Reviews heavily criticized its weak action, boring plot, and a plethora of game-breaking glitches. Several found it to be a regression compared to much older games in the similar style. Despite the scathing reviews, a small handful of optimistic players found something to enjoy in the experience, providing a rare vote of confidence.
