Metacritic has identified the worst-reviewed game of 2025, an open-world title developed by Build A Rocket Boy, a studio comprised of former talent from Rockstar Games. Despite an extensive advertising campaign and significant pre-launch buzz, the game fell short due to a variety of issues, including a limited open world, numerous bugs, and monotonous gameplay.
The game received an average score of just 28, making it nine points lower than the second-ranked title on Metacritic’s list of poorly received games. The other games listed garnered an average of around 11 reviews each, indicating that the poor reception of this particular title stands out starkly in comparison.
Developed by a studio led by industry veterans and published by IO Interactive, this game had high expectations. It was showcased at various events, including the Summer Game Fest, and boasted a substantial marketing push. Unfortunately, upon release in June 2025, it faced harsh criticism for its lack of depth, buggy performance, subpar enemy AI, confusing endgame mechanics, and overall predictable storylines.
In response to the feedback, Build A Rocket Boy has initiated a series of updates aimed at enhancing the gaming experience. These adjustments include rebalancing difficulty, improving cover shooting mechanics, allowing players to skip cutscenes, and introducing new side activities. They have also made changes to enhance gameplay flow, such as adjusting ammo drops and eliminating frustrating turret mechanics.
Despite these efforts, the initial critical reception may have lasting effects on the game’s reputation. The developers expressed gratitude for player feedback, stating, “every bit of feedback, positive, negative, or in between, has helped improve the game and keep it moving in the right direction.” While the updates may provide some improvements, it remains uncertain whether they will be enough to change the game’s standing among players and critics alike.
The gaming community often faces such disappointments, as not every high-profile release can meet expectations. As the industry continues to evolve, the challenges of addressing player concerns while maintaining creative vision become increasingly complex. For Build A Rocket Boy, this experience serves as a reminder of the critical importance of delivering a polished product in an ever-competitive market.
