The Most Disappointing Video Games of This Year, Based on Review Aggregator Metacritic

At every turn, enthusiasts are eagerly sharing their lists of the greatest releases of 2025. However, what of the stinkers, the underperformers? We'll take a few moments to honor the most panned games of the year, based on the aggregate scores from Metacritic. Are all of these games truly as terrible as the ratings suggest? Let's find out.

10. Nintendo Switch 2 Welcome Tour

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

Initial reactions to this tech demo were heavily influenced by its $9.99 price tag, with many voicing frustration it wasn't a free pack-in like some other console launches. Professional assessment was quite mixed, from harsh disappointment to more generous appraisals that noted the delightful software itself. In spite of the debate, the title proved to be a surprisingly robust digital seller during its launch month.

9. Rennsport

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

Marketed as "beyond a racing game," this driving sim from European developers was met with pretty unanimous reviews. Critics noted that the game was lacking in key areas, particularly in a year packed with excellent racing titles. For many, this disappointing sim was better off left on the shelf.

8. Bubsy in: The Purrfect Collection

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

To begin with: the awkward colon usage is a notable point of contention. This anthology of SNES and PS1 platforming games showcases a "attitude"-filled feline known for constant jokes. Critics observed that these games haven't aged well originally and feel dated with age. The surprisingly strong user score remains a curious oddity to the Metascore.

7. Hunter x Hunter Fighting Game

Aggregate Score: 53, User Score: 3.5

This manga-based fighter faced harsh criticism from both reviewers and fans. It was lambasted for a thin character selection and a severe lack of gameplay modes. Fan reaction was especially vitriolic, with some stating a desire that the title's poor performance would have consequences for future projects.

6. Riders Vs Dogoos

Aggregate Score: 51, Audience Score: 5.3

Based on the niche Hyperdimension Neptunia series, this motorcycle action game tasks players with gathering cute monsters. Reviewers felt that its effort to recreate a unique feel didn't land, coming across as more of a low-effort product than a substantial series entry. Its short length combined with a full retail cost was criticized.

5. Captain Blood

Metascore: 50, User Score: 5.3

This title is a piece of lost media from the Xbox era, launched after years and years in production delays. The team behind it opted to preserve the game as an authentic product of its time, acknowledging that today's audiences might dislike its retro feel. As such, many reviews concluded that the interesting history of its development was more compelling than the actual gameplay.

4. Scar-Lead Salvation

Metascore: 44, User Score: 2.4

This anime-art action game modeled after games like *Returnal* disappointed with critics. The main issues included bland enemy design, repetitive levels, and a forgettable story. A much-criticized system involving the outfit degradation was universally disliked and took away from the game's potential charm.

3. Ambulance Life

Metascore: 44, User Score: 4.9

Think of the engaging surgery games of the past, then strip away the satisfying gameplay. That, according to reviews, is pretty much *Ambulance Life*. Reviewers found the emergency response sections to be tedious and repetitive, and the story's portrayal of its subject matter was criticized as being poorly executed. The overall experience was deemed a missed opportunity.

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 collection of basic activities that very soon became boring. Some reviews went so far as to call it one of the most disappointing titles available on its platform, noting a profound lack of depth.

1. MindsEye

Aggregate Score: 37, User Score: 2.5

Positioned as a blockbuster open-world action game from a studio led by industry veterans, *MindsEye* was a notable disappointment. Reviews savaged its lousy combat, uninspired storytelling, and a plethora of game-breaking glitches. Critics found it to be a significant step back compared to decades-old games in the same genre. Amidst the sea of negativity, a tiny number of fans found value in the experience, providing a lonely vote of confidence.