The Most Disappointing Games of This Year, Per Review Aggregator Metacritic

Everywhere you look, fans are foaming at the mouth to post their lists of the greatest releases of 2025. Yet, where are the flops, the underperformers? We'll take a few moments to honor the absolute worst games of the year, according to the critical consensus on Metacritic. Are all of these games as disappointing as the reviews suggest? Here is the list.

10. Nintendo Switch 2 Welcome Tour

Aggregate Score: 54/100, User Score: 3.4/10

First impressions to this showcase title were heavily influenced by its $9.99 price tag, with many voicing frustration it wasn't a bundled game like some other console launches. Critical opinion was quite mixed, from scathing critiques to somewhat forgiving appraisals that praised the charming software itself. Despite the controversy, the title proved to be a notable seller during its launch month.

9. Rennsport

Aggregate Score: 53/100, User Score: 3.2/10

Presented as "beyond a racing game," this simulation from Competition Company and Teyon garnered largely negative reviews. Reviews pointed out that the game was lacking in almost every category, notably in a year packed with excellent racing titles. Ultimately, this disappointing sim was best left unplayed.

8. Bubsy's Purrfect Collection

Aggregate Score: 53/100, Audience Score: 8.6/10

To begin with: the irritating title grammar is a notable point of contention. This compilation of retro mascot platformers showcases a sarcastic feline known for non-stop jokes. The consensus was that these games were mediocre to begin with and have not improved with age. The surprisingly strong user score stands as a peculiar contrast to the Metascore.

7. Nen x Impact

Aggregate Score: 53, User Score: 3.5

This *Hunter x Hunter* fighting game encountered significant backlash from both reviewers and fans. Complaints centered on a small roster of characters and a dearth of content. User reviews was especially negative, with some expressing a desire that the title's failure would be a warning for similar releases.

6. Riders Vs Dogoos

Aggregate Score: 51, Audience Score: 5.3

A part of the anime-style Hyperdimension Neptunia series, this vehicle combat game tasks players with collecting cute monsters. The assessment was that its goal to recreate a unique feel was unsuccessful, coming across as more of a cash grab than a meaningful addition to the franchise. 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 piece of lost media from the past, finally released after nearly two decades in production delays. The publishers consciously chose to keep the game as an original experience of its time, fully aware that contemporary players might criticize its retro feel. As such, many reviews noted that the fascinating story of its development was more compelling than the end product.

4. Scar-Lead

Aggregate Score: 44, Audience Score: 2.4

This anime-styled action game inspired by games like *Returnal* failed to impress with critics. Common complaints were bland enemy design, monotonous stage design, and a snoozy narrative. A particular feature involving the protagonist's clothing was seen as adding nothing and detracted from the game's overall experience.

3. Ambulance Life: A Paramedic Simulator

Aggregate Score: 44, User Score: 4.9

Imagine the tense surgery games of the past, then take out the satisfying gameplay. That, according to reviews, is roughly *Ambulance Life*. Players found the core gameplay loop to be monotonous, and the story's portrayal of serious themes was criticized as being tone-deaf. The overall experience was deemed a missed opportunity.

2. Tamagotchi Plaza

Metascore: 43, User Score: 5.8

This shift away from the classic digital companion formula transforms the franchise into a minigame collection title. The result, based on critics, was a vapid assortment of basic activities that quickly grew tiresome. Some reviews went so far as to declare it one of the worst titles available on its platform, citing a dearth of depth.

1. MindsEye

Aggregate Score: 37, User Score: 2.5

Arriving as a blockbuster GTA-style title from a team featuring well-known figures, *MindsEye* was a spectacular disappointment. Reviews universally panned its poor shooting mechanics, boring plot, and a plethora of game-breaking glitches. Several found it to be a regression compared to decades-old games in the similar style. Despite the overwhelming criticism, a few of positive user reviews found fun in the experience, serving as a rare counterpoint.