The Most Disappointing Games of This Year, Based on Aggregate Scores

Across the internet, fans are quick to share their selections of the greatest games of 2025. However, what of the stinkers, the underperformers? We'll take a moment to recognize the lowest-rated games of the year, as determined by the critical consensus on Metacritic. Are all of these games as disappointing as the ratings suggest? Let's find out.

10. Nintendo Switch 2 Welcome Tour

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

First impressions to this showcase title were heavily influenced by its $9.99 price tag, with many feeling cheesed off it wasn't a free pack-in like competing console launches. Professional assessment spanned a wide spectrum, from scathing critiques to slightly kinder takes that highlighted the delightful software itself. In spite of the controversy, the title proved to be a notable digital seller during its launch month.

9. Rennsport

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

Billed as "not just a racing game," this driving sim from European developers was met with pretty unanimous reviews. Reviews pointed out that the game fell short in almost every category, notably in a year filled with excellent racing games. Ultimately, this disappointing sim was best left on the shelf.

8. The Purrfect Bubsy Collection

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

First things first: the confusing punctuation is a notable strike against it. This anthology of retro mascot platformers showcases a rude feline known for constant quips. Reviewers noted that these games were mediocre to begin with and feel dated with age. The surprisingly strong user score remains a peculiar anomaly to the critical reception.

7. Hunter x Hunter Fighting Game

Aggregate Score: 53, User Score: 3.5

This anime-inspired brawler was met with harsh criticism from both reviewers and players. Complaints centered on a limited fighter lineup and a minimal offering of content. Player sentiment was especially negative, with some voicing a hope that the title's failure would serve as a lesson for the developers.

6. Riders Vs Dogoos

Aggregate Score: 51, User Score: 5.3

Based on the niche Hyperdimension Neptunia series, this motorcycle action game tasks players with gathering slime-like creatures. Reviewers felt that its attempt to channel a *Katamari Damacy*-like experience ultimately fell flat, coming across as more of a cash grab than a worthy addition to the franchise. Its 3-hour duration combined with a $40 price tag seemed like a bold choice.

5. Captain Blood

Metascore: 50, Audience Score: 5.3

This title is a curious artifact from the past, finally released after a very long time in legal limbo. The publishers consciously chose to release the game as an period-accurate artifact of its time, accepting that modern gamers might dislike its dated design. As such, many reviews concluded that the interesting history of its development was more interesting than the actual gameplay.

4. Scar-Lead

Metascore: 44, Audience Score: 2.4

This anime-styled action game drawing from games like *Returnal* disappointed with critics. The main issues included bland enemy design, samey environments, and a forgettable story. A particular feature involving the character's attire was widely panned and detracted from the game's overall experience.

3. Ambulance Life: A Paramedic Simulator

Aggregate Score: 44, Audience Score: 4.9

Recall the tense medical sims of the past, then strip away the satisfying gameplay. That, according to reviews, is roughly *Ambulance Life*. Reviewers found the core gameplay loop to be a slog, and the treatment of mental health topics was criticized as being insensitive. The overall experience was deemed not very compelling.

2. Tamagotchi Plaza

Metascore: 43, Audience Score: 5.8

This shift away from the classic virtual pet formula makes the franchise into a minigame collection title. The result, based on critics, was a vapid series of basic activities that quickly became boring. Some reviews went so far as to label it one of the most disappointing titles available on its platform, citing a profound lack of depth.

1. MindsEye

Metascore: 37, Audience Score: 2.5

Positioned as a blockbuster GTA-style title from a studio led by experienced developers, *MindsEye* was a notable critical flop. Reviews heavily criticized its poor shooting mechanics, dull missions, and a multitude of technical problems. Critics found it to be a significant step back compared to much older games in the similar style. Amidst the sea of negativity, a few of positive user reviews found value in the experience, offering a rare contrast.