Across the internet, fans are foaming at the mouth to post their rankings of the greatest releases of 2025. However, what of the stinkers, the low achievers? It's time to take a moment to honor the lowest-rated games of the year, as determined by review aggregator Metacritic. Could each of these games truly as terrible as the ratings suggest? Here is the list.
10. Switch 2's Welcome Tour
Aggregate Score: 54/100, User Score: 3.4/10
The early response to this showcase title were colored by its $9.99 price tag, with many expressing disappointment it wasn't a bundled game like some other console launches. Professional assessment spanned a wide spectrum, from harsh disappointment to slightly kinder reviews that noted the polished software itself. Regardless of the controversy, the title proved to be a notable commercial performer during its launch month.
9. Rennsport
Aggregate Score: 53/100, User Score: 3.2/10
Presented as "not just a racing game," this driving sim from Competition Company and Teyon received largely negative reviews. Critics noted that the game fell short in nearly every way, especially in a year filled with stellar racing titles. For many, this disappointing sim was advised to be left in the garage.
8. The Purrfect Bubsy Collection
Metascore: 53/100, Audience Score: 8.6/10
First things first: the irritating colon usage is a minor point of contention. This compilation of SNES and PS1 mascot platformers revives a sarcastic feline known for constant jokes. Reviewers noted that these games haven't aged well to begin with and haven't gotten better with age. The surprisingly strong user score stands as a peculiar oddity to the critical reception.
7. Hunter x Hunter: Nen x Impact
Aggregate Score: 53, Audience Score: 3.5
This anime-inspired fighter faced widespread disappointment from both reviewers and fans. Issues included a limited roster of characters and a severe lack of gameplay modes. Player sentiment was notably negative, with some expressing a desire that the title's flop would have consequences for similar releases.
6. Riders Vs Dogoos
Metascore: 51, Audience Score: 5.3
A part of the anime-style Hyperdimension Neptunia series, this bike-riding title tasks players with rounding up Dogoos. The assessment was that its effort to mimic a unique feel didn't land, coming across as more of a quick spin-off than a worthy addition to the franchise. Its short length combined with a premium price 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, seeing the light of day after years and years in legal limbo. The publishers opted to keep the game as an original experience of its time, accepting that contemporary players might not appreciate its retro feel. As such, many reviews concluded that the interesting history of its development was far richer than the game itself.
4. Salvation
Metascore: 44, Audience Score: 2.4
This anime-styled action game modeled after games like *Returnal* failed to impress with critics. Common complaints centered on repetitive adversaries, repetitive levels, and a forgettable story. A much-criticized system involving the outfit degradation was widely panned and undermined the game's overall experience.
3. Ambulance Life
Aggregate Score: 44, Audience Score: 4.9
Recall the strategic surgery games of the past, then take out the satisfying gameplay. That, according to reviews, is roughly *Ambulance Life*. Critics found the ambulance-driving sequences to be a slog, and the treatment of serious themes was criticized as being tone-deaf. The overall experience was deemed largely unsatisfying.
2. Tamagotchi Plaza
Aggregate Score: 43, Audience Score: 5.8
This departure from the classic digital companion formula transforms the franchise into a shopping simulation title. The result, per critics, was a unsatisfying assortment of simple minigames that quickly overstayed its welcome. Some reviews went so far as to declare it one of the lowest-quality titles available on its platform, citing a dearth of engaging content.
1. MindsEye
Aggregate Score: 37, User Score: 2.5
Positioned as a high-profile GTA-style title from a studio led by experienced developers, *MindsEye* was a notable disappointment. Reviews savaged its lousy combat, uninspired storytelling, and a multitude of technical problems. Many found it to be a significant step back compared to previous-generation games in the similar style. Amidst the scathing reviews, a tiny number of fans found something to enjoy in the experience, providing a lonely contrast.
