The Most Disappointing Video Games of 2025, Based on Aggregate Scores

Across the internet, gamers are eagerly sharing their lists of the top releases of 2025. However, what of the stinkers, the failures? It's time to take a momentary detour to recognize the most panned games of the year, based on review aggregator Metacritic. Are all of these games as bad as the reviews suggest? Let's find out.

10. Nintendo Switch 2 Welcome Tour

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

The early response to this showcase title were shaped by its $9.99 price tag, with many voicing frustration it wasn't a free pack-in like some other console launches. Reviewer sentiment was quite mixed, from harsh disappointment to slightly kinder reviews that noted the polished software underneath the controversy. Despite the grumbling, the title proved to be a strong digital seller during its launch month.

9. Rennsport

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

Marketed as "not just a racing game," this vroom-vroom title from European developers received largely negative reviews. Reviews pointed out that the game felt unfinished in key areas, notably in a year filled with high-quality racing titles. In the eyes of critics, this underwhelming entry was better off left on the shelf.

8. Bubsy in: The Purrfect Collection

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

Before we start: the confusing colon usage is a notable strike against it. This compilation of retro mascot platformers features a "attitude"-filled feline known for incessant quips. The consensus was that these games were not good to begin with and haven't gotten better with age. The surprisingly strong user score remains a peculiar oddity to the Metascore.

7. Nen x Impact

Aggregate Score: 53, User Score: 3.5

This anime-inspired fighter was met with widespread disappointment from both professionals and the dedicated community. Complaints centered on a thin roster of characters and a severe lack of features. Player sentiment was particularly vitriolic, with some voicing a desire that the title's poor performance would have consequences for the developers.

6. Riders Vs Dogoos

Metascore: 51, User Score: 5.3

Based on the niche Hyperdimension Neptunia series, this motorcycle action game tasks players with gathering cute monsters. Critics argued that its goal to mimic a *Katamari Damacy*-like gameplay loop didn't land, coming across as more of a quick spin-off than a meaningful Neptunia game. Its 3-hour duration combined with a premium price raised eyebrows.

5. Captain Blood

Aggregate Score: 50, User Score: 5.3

This title is a resurrected relic from the Xbox era, finally released after years and years in legal limbo. The publishers consciously chose to release the game as an authentic artifact of its time, acknowledging that today's audiences might dislike its retro feel. As such, many reviews remarked that the interesting history of its resurrection was more compelling than the actual gameplay.

4. Salvation

Aggregate Score: 44, Audience Score: 2.4

This anime-art roguelike shooter inspired by games like *Returnal* disappointed with critics. Frequent criticisms centered on bland enemy design, repetitive levels, and a forgettable story. A particular feature involving the protagonist's clothing was widely panned and took away from the game's enjoyment.

3. Ambulance Life: A Paramedic Simulator

Metascore: 44, User Score: 4.9

Recall the strategic medical sims of the past, then strip away the compelling story. That, according to reviews, is essentially *Ambulance Life*. Reviewers found the ambulance-driving sequences to be monotonous, and the treatment 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 shift away from the classic virtual pet formula makes the franchise into a town-management title. The result, based on critics, was a dull collection of basic activities that rapidly grew tiresome. Some reviews went so far as to call it one of the worst titles available on its platform, pointing to a complete absence of engaging content.

1. MindsEye

Aggregate Score: 37, Audience Score: 2.5

Intended to be a high-profile crime saga from a team featuring experienced developers, *MindsEye* was a notable commercial failure. Reviews savaged its weak action, uninspired storytelling, and a host of horrendous bugs. Many found it to be a significant step back compared to previous-generation games in the action genre. Among the sea of negativity, a small handful of positive user reviews found fun in the experience, serving as a lonely vote of confidence.