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The Ten Lowest-Scoring Games of 2025 According to Metacritic
The Ten Lowest-Scoring Games of 2025 According to Metacritic
5:03 pm

# The Worst Games of 2025: A Retrospective on the Flops

The year 2025 presented a multitude of gaming adventures, yet not every one of them stood out for positive reasons. While numerous titles excelled, various games did not fulfill player and critic expectations, marking them as some of the most poorly received entries of the year. Acknowledging these failures is crucial as they emphasize the successful aspects of the industry through contrast. Here’s a summary of the ten lowest-rated games on Metacritic in 2025, according to their metascores and reviewers’ critiques.

## 10: *Fast & Furious: Arcade Edition* | 45 Metascore
At a price point of $30, this economical port of the arcade game turned out to be a disappointing experience. Gamers opted to use their coins on the original arcade variant for a brief thrill instead of investing in this unsatisfactory home console version.

## 9: *Glover* | 44 Metascore
This adaptation of the cherished N64 platformer was anticipated to evoke nostalgia among fans. However, it underperformed, providing minimal enhancements and failing to captivate players. The game’s troubled history continued to haunt it, making its inclusion on this list expected.

## 8: *Scar-Lead Salvation* | 44 Metascore
Sharing its metascore with *Glover*, *Scar-Lead Salvation* ranks lower due to a greater number of critiques, signaling its widespread unpopularity. This costly anime-themed take on a *Returnal*-inspired roguelike shooter did not connect well with audiences, highlighting its deficits.

## 7: *Ambulance Life: A Paramedic Simulator* | 44 Metascore
Another title holding a 44 Metascore, *Ambulance Life* garnered significant backlash for its poorly implemented AI-driven dialogue, cumbersome gameplay, and unattractive graphics. The absence of engaging mechanics stifled its enjoyment potential.

## 6: *Tamagotchi Plaza – Nintendo Switch 2 Edition* | 43 Metascore
The follow-up to *Tamagotchi Connection: Corner Shop* stumbled badly, delivering gameplay that resembled an inferior mobile game. Players voiced their disappointment with its monotonous mini-games and overall execution.

## 5: *Gore Doctor* | 40 Metascore
*Gore Doctor* left its mark as a technical disaster. This horror game, mostly unknown before its launch, quickly became synonymous with disappointment due to its faulty controls and disjointed gameplay, categorizing it as a title to steer clear of.

## 4: *Spy Drops* | 39 Metascore
Attempting to embody the spirit of classic stealth-action titles like *Metal Gear Solid*, *Spy Drops* faltered due to numerous problems, including a troublesome camera, bugs, and simplistic enemy AI. These flaws overshadowed any potential promise it possessed.

## 3: *Blood of Mehran* | 38 Metascore
This action-adventure title, reminiscent of *Prince of Persia*, received overwhelmingly negative critiques. Reviewers united against its design, advising gamers to avoid this ill-fated game.

## 2: *Fire Emblem Shadows* | 37 Metascore
Intended as a fusion of *Fire Emblem* and *Among Us*, this mobile-exclusive release missed the target, suffering from insufficient content and an unfulfilling free-to-play model. Most players would likely find more satisfaction simply by playing *Among Us*.

## 1: *MindsEye* | 28 Metascore
This game landed at the very bottom with a bleak 28 Metascore. Highlighting its unsatisfactory gameplay and lack of creativity, it left players questioning how it ever reached the market, marking it as a definite low in 2025 gaming.

Regardless of their negative reception, it’s important to understand that enjoyment in gaming is subjective. These scores do not account for the possibilities for niche audiences or individual enjoyment of these games. While 2025 showcased a plethora of outstanding titles, these blunders serve as a reminder of the hurdles faced in game development and the varied preferences within the gaming community.

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Exploring Life Choices: Insights from the Management Game The Alters
Exploring Life Choices: Insights from the Management Game The Alters
3:53 pm

11 Bit Studios’ sci-fi management game The Alters arrived at a point when I was unhappy with the trajectory my life was taking. But, I wasn’t expecting a story about a shipwrecked astronaut and his cabal of clones to leave me questioning not just the choices I’d taken that led me down that path, but also highlighting all the choices I had left untaken along the way.

That’s not bad going for a game in which you spend most evenings getting hammered playing beer pong.

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"Terminator 2 Gets Highly Anticipated Outstanding Video Game Adaptation"
“Terminator 2 Gets Highly Anticipated Outstanding Video Game Adaptation”
3:53 pm

**Title: Terminator 2D: No Fate – A Trip Down Memory Lane in Arcade-Style Action Gaming**

*Terminator 2: Judgment Day* hit theaters in July 1991, at a time when major films often resulted in a variety of associated video games. The movie was no different, as its arcade version made a notable impression with its pioneering use of digitized visuals and high-octane gameplay. However, several home console versions failed to capture the spirit of James Cameron’s action-packed story. Fast forward nearly 35 years, and we now have *Terminator 2D: No Fate*, a fresh action side-scroller that not only pays tribute to the film but emerges as one of the top run-and-gun shooters on the market today.

This version distinctly prioritizes “arcade-style” gameplay, a focus that has become increasingly rare in modern action games, which tend to complicate simplicity in the name of progress. While recent titles such as *Shinobi: Art of Vengeance* and *Ninja Gaiden Ragebound* strayed from their arcade origins, *No Fate* embraces the uncomplicated, relentless action that characterizes the genre.

*No Fate* plunges players into a nostalgic experience echoing classics like the early *Contra* titles and *Metal Slug*. Created by Bitmap Bureau, a team with extensive experience in the gaming field, the game eliminates unnecessary intricacies, aiming to enhance the excitement of the classic run-and-gun style. Their dedication to delivering a thrilling and addictively playable experience shines through.

With 15 stages, *No Fate* expertly integrates scenes from the original film—such as the memorable biker bar fight and the assault on Cyberdyne—with new segments that broaden the storyline. Players engage in fierce battles within a post-apocalyptic Los Angeles while taking on roles like John Connor. Although the main campaign wraps up in approximately 45 minutes, the game beckons players to return time and time again, ensuring each playthrough feels like a distinctive journey.

The control system in *No Fate* is notable for its accuracy and smoothness, making every action feel gratifying. Weapons vary from Sarah Connor’s pistol to John’s cutting-edge pulse rifle, each giving players a sense of empowerment as they blast through adversaries. The gameplay continuously morphs, as players are encouraged to partake in melee fights, exploit environmental advantages, and strategize to dodge enemy strikes.

Distinct gameplay mechanics introduce diversity across levels. The biker bar fight shifts to a beat ’em up format, while other stages implement vehicle controls, requiring players to navigate obstacles while combating the relentless T-1000. An escape sequence from a mental facility amplifies the tension as players must outwit their futuristic pursuer.

Achieving mastery in *No Fate* is gratifying; as players advance, they become adept at handling increasingly intricate enemy formations and challenging boss fights. The design promotes growth, featuring an engaging scoring system where remaining unscathed results in higher multipliers. Difficulty levels like “Hasta La Vista” and “Judgment Day” elevate the challenge by modifying enemy placements and behaviors.

The levels, while brief, are packed with secrets and alternate routes, allowing various pathways through the game’s storyline. Player decisions can influence the number of stages, making replayability a significant aspect as they discover different scenarios and nods to the original *Terminator* film.

Visually, *No Fate* is a spectacle, showcasing striking pixel art that beautifully captures the film’s aesthetic. Guided by industry expert Henk Nieborg, the game’s graphics resonate with nostalgia while incorporating modern elements. The gameplay not only recalls the iconic run-and-gun period but also aligns with today’s standards of engaging and fulfilling design.

In hindsight, the 1991 home console adaptations of *Terminator 2* fell short in delivering a captivating gameplay experience that reflected the film’s intensity. However, *Terminator 2D: No Fate* addresses that gap, resembling a lost classic revived for a new audience. Its dynamism and fidelity to arcade roots revive the enchantment of former gaming eras, rendering it a must-play for any action game aficionado.

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Exploring the Hidden Worlds and Dynamic Combat of Angeline Era's Dodgems
Exploring the Hidden Worlds and Dynamic Combat of Angeline Era’s Dodgems
2:53 pm

As a kid playing RPGs in the 90s, I’d roam backdrops spamming the pick-up button in hopes of secret treasure. I’d do this especially in PS1 Final Fantasies, with their deceptively inert hand-drawn environments, and their greasy invisible walls. You’d smoosh Squall Leonhart’s galloping form up against the level border as though bashing a skirting board with a hoover nozzle, and every now and then, you’d be rewarded with the hitch of a searching animation.

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Apple Watch Series 11 Now Offered at Reduced Prices, All-Time Low Before Holiday Sales
Apple Watch Series 11 Now Offered at Reduced Prices, All-Time Low Before Holiday Sales
2:53 pm

# Last-Minute Holiday Gift Buying: The Apple Watch Series 11

We have now arrived at the middle of December. If you haven’t completed your holiday shopping for this season yet, time is nearly up—emphasis on “nearly.” The reality is, we last-minute shoppers are not out of luck just yet. There’s still just enough time to make an online purchase and receive it in time to place it under the tree on December 25. You can still grab some high-end gift items. Check out the newest smartwatch from everyone’s beloved tech brand—the Apple Watch Series 11. This watch debuted only this year, and it’s already experiencing discounts of up to 25% for the holidays.

## Pricing and Variants

[The Apple Watch Series 11 is available in two sizes. The 42mm version debuted at a retail price of $399. Currently, it has a 25% discount.](https://shop.kotaku.com/go/6393/) This reduces the price to just $299—saving you $100. For those who prefer a bigger display, there is also the 46mm version. This model launched at $429, but its 23% discount lowers it to just $329. Either size offers you a nice $100 savings for a limited time. Choose from a variety of stylish cases in jet black, rose gold, or silver and several color bands, such as black, light blush, or purple fog.

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## New Features of the Series 11

The Apple Watch Series 11 is Apple’s newest mainstream smartwatch. You’ll notice significant improvements in health tracking, durability, connectivity, and software intelligence compared to earlier versions. It is equipped with features like a reimagined Liquid Glass interface, updated Smart Stack widgets, and gesture commands such as a one-handed wrist flick to clear notifications.

The watch continues Apple’s commitment to health and fitness, featuring a wide array of biometric sensors—including heart rate, ECG, blood oxygen, cycle tracking, and sleep monitoring. It adds hypertension alerts that can notify users of patterns that might suggest elevated blood pressure. A new sleep score feature assists users in understanding and enhancing sleep quality.

Software upgrades like Workout Buddy offer personalized fitness coaching. Plus, all the typical Apple Watch capabilities that we’ve come to expect are there, including integration with iPhones for messaging, calls, Apple Pay, and beyond.

## Design and Resilience

From a design perspective, the Series 11 retains the classic slim silhouette Apple Watch enthusiasts appreciate, available in both 42mm and 46mm sizes with either aluminum or high-grade titanium cases. The aluminum variants come with Ion-X glass that boasts approximately twice the scratch resistance as previous models. Rated for water resistance up to 50m and dust resistance, it is well-suited for active lifestyles. 5G connectivity is available on cellular models for quicker data access and improved connectivity without the need for an iPhone nearby.

## Battery Performance

Regarding battery performance, Apple claims the Series 11 offers up to 24 hours of normal usage, enabling all-day wear and even overnight tracking without the need for frequent recharging. With Fast Charging, around 15 minutes of charge can yield up to 8 hours of battery life. In Low Power Mode, battery life can be extended even further, potentially achieving up to 38 hours in certain scenarios.

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Total War: Attila Transformed into a Lord of the Rings Experience with Complete Campaign Mod Release
Total War: Attila Transformed into a Lord of the Rings Experience with Complete Campaign Mod Release
1:53 pm

If you’re in the mood for more TWar following the recent reveals of Total War: Warhammer 40,000 and Total War: Medieval 3, one of Total War: Attila’s most ambitious mods has finally made it to 1.0 release. It’s taken a decade for Lord of the Rings conversion The Dawnless Days to deliver its full ring-warring campaign, but that day’s arrived at long last.

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LEGO Raises Discounts on Star Wars Starships, as The Dark Falcon Hits All-Time Low Price After Millennium Falcon
LEGO Raises Discounts on Star Wars Starships, as The Dark Falcon Hits All-Time Low Price After Millennium Falcon
1:53 pm

### The Dark Falcon Buildable Starship Set: An Ominous Enhancement to Your LEGO Collection

Star Wars aficionados and LEGO fans have a fresh reason to rejoice with the debut of the Dark Falcon Buildable Starship set, an ominous reinterpretation of the legendary Millennium Falcon as featured in the LEGO Star Wars: Rebuild the Galaxy collection. Currently listed at a 17% markdown on Amazon, this remarkable set offers not only an enjoyable building adventure but also a striking display item for any collection.

#### Pricing and Availability

The Dark Falcon set is presently offered at $149, making it an enticing choice for those seeking to present a remarkable gift this holiday period. With free shipping included, it’s an ideal time to secure this distinctive set before the bustling holiday crowds create availability issues. The timing is also right, as deliveries can be anticipated before Christmas, ensuring that Star Wars enthusiasts in your life receive a wonderful surprise.

[See at Amazon](https://shop.kotaku.com/go/5792/)

#### Exceptional Attention to Detail

Geared for ages 10 and above, the Dark Falcon set comprises an impressive 1,579 pieces, featuring multiple thrilling minifigures. This extensive piece count contributes to a more immersive building experience that can be treasured during snug winter evenings spent with loved ones.

This LEGO version of the Millennium Falcon boasts a detachable cockpit that comfortably accommodates two minifigures, in addition to two spring-loaded shooters, rotating cannons, a gunner post for two minifigures, and a functional radar dish. The set comprises six exclusive minifigures: Darth Jar Jar, Bounty Hunter C-3PO, Darth Dev, Darth Rey, Beach Luke, and Jedi Vader, each outfitted with distinctive accessories, lightsabers, and even a blue milk carton.

#### Gorgeous Design and Features

The design of the Dark Falcon set certainly impresses. The exterior is both eye-catching and realistic, while the interior unveils whimsical details that enhance the building experience. Builders can lift the top panels to discover the interior, which includes a command center, hyperdrive, and entertainment space. Players can inventively arrange scenes, such as positioning Darth Jar Jar on his throne or aiding Jedi Vader in rescuing Beach Luke from captivity.

Once built, this remarkable ship stands over 5 inches tall, 17 inches long, and 12.5 inches wide, rendering it a superb display piece for any Star Wars-themed shelf or child’s room. The set includes clear and comprehensive instructions, enabling builders to effortlessly follow along, making it suitable for independent building sessions for children.

#### Additional Set Suggestions

The Dark Falcon set is a part of the broader LEGO Star Wars: Rebuild the Galaxy collection. For dedicated collectors, consider combining this set with others such as 75388 Jedi Bob’s Starfighter and 75393 TIE Fighter & X-Wing Mash-up, which are also available at discounted rates. With a wide range of options, this is the perfect time to elevate your Lego Star Wars collection without overspending.

Considering the current availability and demand throughout the holiday season, it’s wise to make your purchase sooner rather than later. Snag this amazing deal before it disappears!

[See at Amazon](https://shop.kotaku.com/go/5792/)

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