The Lowest-Rated Titles of This Year, According to Aggregate Scores

At every turn, enthusiasts are eagerly sharing their selections of the best releases of 2025. But what about the flops, the low achievers? We'll take a momentary detour to recognize the absolute worst games of the year, according to the aggregate scores from Metacritic. Is every one of these games as bad as the ratings suggest? Let's find out.

10. Nintendo Switch 2 Welcome Tour

Metascore: 54/100, Audience Score: 3.4/10

First impressions to this tech demo were colored by its $9.99 price tag, with many expressing disappointment it wasn't a bundled game like some other console launches. Reviewer sentiment varied dramatically, from scathing critiques to somewhat forgiving appraisals that highlighted the delightful software itself. Regardless of the controversy, the title proved to be a surprisingly robust commercial performer during its launch month.

9. Rennsport

Metascore: 53/100, Audience Score: 3.2/10

Marketed as "not just a racing game," this simulation from Competition Company and Teyon received largely negative reviews. Critics noted that the game fell short in key areas, especially in a year featuring stellar racing experiences. Ultimately, this underwhelming entry was advised to be left in the garage.

8. The Purrfect Bubsy Collection

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

To begin with: the confusing title grammar is a notable annoyance. This anthology of 1990s-era mascot platformers showcases a "attitude"-filled feline known for non-stop hacky one-liners. Reviewers noted that these games were mediocre in their time and haven't gotten better with age. The notably positive user score is a baffling contrast to the critical reception.

7. Hunter x Hunter: Nen x Impact

Metascore: 53, User Score: 3.5

This anime-inspired fighter faced widespread disappointment from both critics and players. Issues included a limited fighter lineup and a severe lack of gameplay modes. Player sentiment was notably harsh, with some expressing a wish 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 niche Hyperdimension Neptunia series, this bike-riding title tasks players with collecting slime-like creatures. Reviewers felt that its goal to channel a *Katamari Damacy*-like experience didn't land, coming across as more of a quick spin-off than a meaningful series entry. Its short length combined with a full retail cost seemed like a bold choice.

5. Captain Blood

Metascore: 50, Audience Score: 5.3

This title is a curious artifact from the mid-2000s, seeing the light of day after nearly two decades in development hell. The publishers made the decision to keep the game as an authentic experience of its time, accepting that contemporary players might dislike its dated design. As such, many reviews noted that the interesting history of its development was more compelling than the actual gameplay.

4. Scar-Lead

Metascore: 44, User Score: 2.4

This anime-styled third-person shooter modeled after games like *Returnal* disappointed with critics. Common complaints were uninspired foes, monotonous stage design, and a unengaging plot. A particular feature involving the protagonist's clothing was universally disliked and undermined the game's overall experience.

3. Ambulance Life

Aggregate Score: 44, Audience Score: 4.9

Recall the engaging medical sims of the past, then remove the memorable characters. That, according to reviews, is pretty much *Ambulance Life*. Players found the emergency response sections to be tedious and repetitive, and the treatment of its subject matter was criticized as being tone-deaf. The overall experience was deemed largely unsatisfying.

2. Tamagotchi Plaza

Aggregate Score: 43, Audience Score: 5.8

This shift away from the classic virtual pet formula makes the franchise into a town-management title. The result, according to critics, was a dull collection of simple minigames that quickly became boring. Some reviews went so far as to label it one of the lowest-quality titles available on its platform, noting a dearth of satisfying gameplay.

1. MindsEye

Metascore: 37, Audience Score: 2.5

Arriving as a high-profile crime saga from a ex-Rockstar veteran's industry veterans, *MindsEye* was a spectacular critical flop. Reviews heavily criticized its poor shooting mechanics, boring plot, and a plethora of game-breaking glitches. Critics found it to be a regression compared to decades-old games in the similar style. Amidst the overwhelming criticism, a small handful of optimistic players found value in the experience, serving as a distinct counterpoint.