Everywhere you look, gamers are quick to share their lists of the greatest releases of 2025. Yet, where are the flops, the failures? It's time to take a few moments to examine the most panned games of the year, according to review aggregator Metacritic. Is every one of these games truly as terrible as the reviews suggest? We shall see.
10. Welcome Tour for Switch 2
Aggregate Score: 54/100, User Score: 3.4/10
First impressions to this pack-in experience were shaped by its $9.99 price tag, with many voicing frustration it wasn't a free pack-in like competing console launches. Professional assessment spanned a wide spectrum, from harsh disappointment to more generous reviews that noted the charming software underneath the controversy. In spite of the grumbling, the title proved to be a strong digital seller during its launch month.
9. Rennsport
Metascore: 53/100, User Score: 3.2/10
Marketed as "not just a racing game," this driving sim from Competition Company and Teyon garnered largely negative reviews. The consensus was that the game fell short in nearly every way, particularly in a year filled with excellent racing games. In the eyes of critics, this underwhelming entry was advised to be left on the shelf.
8. The Purrfect Bubsy Collection
Aggregate Score: 53/100, User Score: 8.6/10
First things first: the confusing punctuation is a notable annoyance. This compilation of SNES and PS1 mascot platformers showcases a rude feline known for incessant quips. Reviewers noted that these games haven't aged well originally and have not improved with age. The improbably high user score remains a peculiar contrast to the Metascore.
7. Hunter x Hunter Fighting Game
Aggregate Score: 53, User Score: 3.5
This manga-based fighting game faced harsh criticism from both professionals and players. It was lambasted for a limited fighter lineup and a severe lack of features. Player sentiment was notably negative, with some voicing a desire that the title's failure would have consequences for future projects.
6. Riders Vs Dogoos
Metascore: 51, Audience Score: 5.3
A part of the niche Hyperdimension Neptunia series, this motorcycle action game tasks players with collecting Dogoos. Critics argued that its goal to mimic a *Katamari Damacy*-like gameplay loop was unsuccessful, coming across as more of a quick spin-off than a worthy addition to the franchise. Its 3-hour duration combined with a $40 price tag was criticized.
5. Captain Blood
Metascore: 50, Audience Score: 5.3
This title is a resurrected relic from the past, launched after years and years in legal limbo. The publishers opted to keep the game as an authentic artifact of its time, acknowledging that today's audiences might dislike its dated design. As such, many reviews remarked that the fascinating story of its resurrection was more interesting than the game itself.
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. Common complaints were bland enemy design, samey environments, and a forgettable story. A particular feature involving the outfit degradation was seen as adding nothing and detracted from the game's enjoyment.
3. Paramedic Simulator
Metascore: 44, Audience Score: 4.9
Imagine the engaging medical sims of the past, then take out the compelling story. That, according to reviews, is roughly *Ambulance Life*. Critics found the emergency response sections to be monotonous, and the story's portrayal of serious themes was criticized as being insensitive. The overall experience was deemed a missed opportunity.
2. Tamagotchi Plaza
Metascore: 43, Audience Score: 5.8
This new direction for the classic virtual pet formula makes the franchise into a shopping simulation title. The result, according to critics, was a dull assortment of simple minigames that quickly became boring. Some reviews went so far as to label it one of the most disappointing titles available on its platform, citing a dearth of engaging content.
1. MindsEye
Metascore: 37, Audience Score: 2.5
Arriving as a high-profile GTA-style title from a studio led by well-known figures, *MindsEye* was a notable critical flop. Reviews universally panned its weak action, boring plot, and a plethora of horrendous bugs. Many found it to be a downgrade compared to previous-generation games in the similar style. Amidst the overwhelming criticism, a tiny number of fans found value in the experience, providing a lonely contrast.
