Metacritic has published its list of the worst video games of 2023. This compilation, based on weighted average review scores from approved critics, sheds light on the titles that underperformed in the gaming world this year.
The Disappointing Ten
- The Lord of the Rings: Gollum – With a Metascore of just 33, this game leads the pack in disappointment. Critics lamented its lackluster gameplay, unimpressive graphics, and a narrative that failed to do justice to Tolkien’s rich lore.
- Flashback 2 – Scoring a mere 35, the sequel to the 1992 science fiction classic couldn’t capture the magic of its predecessor, leading to a lackluster reception.
- Greyhill Incident – Earning a score of 38, this game was criticized for its uninspiring gameplay and lackluster narrative execution.
- Quantum Error – This ambitious sci-fi horror game managed a score of 40 but was panned for rampant glitches and mundane gameplay despite its sharp visuals.
- Testament: The Order of High-Human – With a score of 41, this game was marked down for its confusing and tedious gameplay, lacking any significant redeeming qualities.
- Crime Boss: Rockay City – Despite its star-studded cast, this game only scored 43, criticized for its underwhelming execution and poor storyline.
- Gangs of Sherwood – This game received a score of 47. Its dystopian steampunk take on Robin Hood’s Sherwood Forest was considered a misfire in terms of both concept and gameplay.
- Hellboy: Web of Wyrd – Scoring 48, this beat-em-up roguelike couldn’t live up to its potential, suffering from repetitive level design and low difficulty.
- Loop8: Summer of Gods – A JRPG set in an alternate reality version of rural 1980s Japan, scored 49 but failed to impress with its repetitive gameplay and disjointed experience.
- Gargoyles Remastered – Also scoring 49, this remaster of the 1995 game was deemed unnecessary and failed to meet expectations, offering little to new or returning fans.
This list by Metacritic serves as a reminder that not all games can be hits. It underscores the challenges in game development and the high standards of gamers and critics alike. The full details of each game’s shortcomings can be explored further for those interested in understanding the pitfalls in the gaming industry this year.
