The Most Disappointing Video Games of the Year 2025, According to Review Aggregator Metacritic
At every turn, enthusiasts are quick to share their lists of the top releases of 2025. But what about the disasters, the underperformers? It's time to take a momentary detour to recognize the absolute worst games of the year, as determined by the critical consensus on Metacritic. Is every one of these games as disappointing as their scores suggest? Let's find out.
10. Switch 2's Welcome Tour
Aggregate Score: 54/100, Audience Score: 3.4/10
First impressions to this pack-in experience were heavily influenced by its $9.99 price tag, with many expressing disappointment it wasn't a bundled game like competing console launches. Critical opinion varied dramatically, from scathing critiques to somewhat forgiving takes that noted the polished software underneath the controversy. Despite the debate, the title proved to be a notable commercial performer during its launch month.
9. Rennsport
Aggregate Score: 53/100, User Score: 3.2/10
Billed as "not just a racing game," this vroom-vroom title from Competition Company and Teyon was met with largely negative reviews. Critics noted that the game felt unfinished in nearly every way, especially in a year featuring excellent racing titles. Ultimately, this underwhelming entry was better off left on the shelf.
8. Bubsy in: The Purrfect Collection
Aggregate Score: 53/100, User Score: 8.6/10
Before we start: the awkward colon usage is a notable annoyance. This collection of SNES and PS1 platforming games showcases a sarcastic feline known for constant hacky one-liners. Reviewers noted that these games were not good to begin with and haven't gotten better with age. The notably positive user score remains a peculiar anomaly to the critical reception.
7. Hunter x Hunter Fighting Game
Aggregate Score: 53, Audience Score: 3.5
This anime-inspired fighter encountered harsh criticism from both reviewers and the dedicated community. Issues included a small fighter lineup and a severe lack of features. Fan reaction was notably negative, with some voicing a desire that the title's poor performance would have consequences for future projects.
6. Neptunia Motorcycle Game
Metascore: 51, User Score: 5.3
Hailing from the quirky Hyperdimension Neptunia series, this bike-riding title tasks players with gathering Dogoos. The assessment was that its attempt to recreate a rolling-collection gameplay loop didn't land, coming across as more of a cash grab than a substantial Neptunia game. Its short length combined with a $40 price tag raised eyebrows.
5. Captain Blood
Metascore: 50, User Score: 5.3
This title is a resurrected relic from the past, launched after years and years in legal limbo. The publishers consciously chose to preserve the game as an authentic product of its time, fully aware that contemporary players might criticize its retro feel. As such, many reviews noted that the fascinating story of its resurrection was far richer than the actual gameplay.
4. Scar-Lead
Aggregate Score: 44, User Score: 2.4
This anime-art action game inspired by games like *Returnal* failed to impress with critics. Frequent criticisms centered on uninspired foes, monotonous stage design, and a unengaging plot. A much-criticized system involving the protagonist's clothing was widely panned and undermined the game's potential charm.
3. Paramedic Simulator
Metascore: 44, User Score: 4.9
Recall the strategic surgery games of the past, then remove the memorable characters. That, according to reviews, is pretty much *Ambulance Life*. Critics found the core gameplay loop to be tedious and repetitive, and the story's portrayal of serious themes was criticized as being insensitive. The overall experience was deemed not very compelling.
2. Tamagotchi Plaza
Aggregate Score: 43, User Score: 5.8
This shift away from the classic digital companion formula turns the franchise into a minigame collection title. The result, per critics, was a vapid assortment of simple minigames that rapidly overstayed its welcome. Some reviews went so far as to label it one of the worst titles available on its platform, noting a profound lack of depth.
1. MindsEye
Aggregate Score: 37, User Score: 2.5
Positioned as a high-profile open-world action game from a studio led by industry veterans, *MindsEye* was a catastrophic commercial failure. Reviews heavily criticized its weak action, uninspired storytelling, and a plethora of horrendous bugs. Many found it to be a regression compared to much older games in the similar style. Despite the sea of negativity, a few of optimistic players found something to enjoy in the experience, serving as a distinct counterpoint.
