11 Underrated Multiplayer Games with Poor Reviews That Are Surprisingly Fun

Corporate avarice has infiltrated seemingly every aspect of the gaming industry, particularly within the multiplayer genre. The lure of lucrative live service titles has prompted numerous publishers to venture into multiplayer gaming, often yielding mixed or disappointing results.

Amidst a landscape rife with microtransaction-laden releases, some multiplayer titles undeservedly face criticism despite offering enjoyable gameplay. This article shines a light on several overlooked games that received poor reviews, showcasing their hidden merits and encouraging you to gather your friends for some virtual fun.

This compilation specifically includes games classified as ‘multiplayer’ on OpenCritic, each attaining an aggregate score of 70 or below. Furthermore, we consider titles that may soon be discontinued or are no longer accessible. Let’s dive into the list!

11 The First Descendant

Far From a Destiny Killer

Starting with the lowest-rated game on our list, The First Descendant captivates through its outstanding gameplay mechanics, impressive production quality, and addictive core loop. Despite accusations of being a mere copy of Destiny, laden with enticing pay-to-win elements, this free-to-play title boasts an enjoyable experience.

With diverse characters to master, fluid gunplay, and seamless multiplayer action, it may not dethrone its predecessor, nor does it respect players’ time constraints. Yet, any fan of looter shooters is likely to find hours of entertainment in this title irrespective of unsavoury aspects.

10 Gang Beasts

Wobbly Battle Royale

Gang Beasts reigns supreme in the realm of pick-up-and-play couch co-op games, yet it initially struggled to garner attention due to its perceived lack of depth. While this critique holds some merit, the game delivers pure, chaotic enjoyment through slapstick humor, erratic gameplay, and whimsical environments.

Envision a riotous bar fight turned up to eleven—this is how Gang Beasts feels. Even if the novelty fades over time, it’s a fantastic diversion to revisit for lighthearted bouts with friends.

9 Brawlhalla

A Smashing Smash Alternative

Brawlhalla Characters fighting on a Ben 10 map

While Super Smash Bros. dominates the platform fighter sphere, Brawlhalla emerges as an engaging alternative rarely acknowledged. This free-to-play game features a broad array of fighters and regular updates, ensuring ongoing freshness in gameplay.

Offering a more competitive environment, Brawlhalla stands out against party-focused brands like Smash. For those eager to master a new roster of characters, diving into this title is a worthwhile endeavor.

8 Foamstars

Sudzy Splatoon

Typically, Square Enix adds at least one poorly received live service game annually, and Foamstars appeared poised for disappointment. However, offering an enjoyable multiplayer experience reminiscent of Splatoon, this game fills a niche for non-Nintendo gamers while also being well-crafted.

Although it lacks the widespread appeal of its predecessor, Foamstars deserves recognition for its engaging gameplay, even if it eventually succumbed to the wave of live service titles that failed to gain traction.

7 XDefiant

Defiant to the End

As Ubisoft has a reputation for prematurely shuttering live service games, XDefiant stands out as one of their more unfortunate failures. Drawing on classic Call of Duty influences and incorporating various Ubisoft franchises, the game presented tight gunplay and well-thought-out maps.

Though it showcased notable quality and production value, the gaming landscape does not need yet another shooter reiterating established formulas. Regrettably, XDefiant did not receive the recognition it deserved and will likely fade into gaming history.

6 Human: Fall Flat

Floppy Fun

In some cases, critics overlook games that appeal more to younger audiences or simply possess an unconventional style.Human: Fall Flat, although criticized for its clumsy controls and sandbox-level design, delivers laugh-out-loud moments and chaotic multiplayer interactions.

This game thrives on its silliness, inviting players to embrace the madness on-screen. While lacking in-depth gameplay mechanics, its charm lies in the enjoyment derived from participating in absurd scenarios.

5 Secret Ponchos

An Ill-Fated Gem

Despite its initial rocky launch plagued by matchmaking issues and other technical setbacks, Secret Ponchos proved to be an engaging twin-stick shooter when functioning properly. Set in a captivating Spaghetti Western environment, it offered an amalgamation of competitive and chaotic gameplay.

Although currently a ghost town, should you gather enough players interested in a nostalgic adventure, the thrills of this title remain unmatched, showcasing the potential it had.

4 That’s You

All You Need Is a Phone

A personal favorite, That’s You hails from the small collection of PlayStation Link titles, emulating Jackbox’s engaging social gameplay by inviting players to use their phones. In a genre filled with commendable competitors like Hidden Agenda and Knowledge is Power, That’s You shines as a top social game.

Combining humor, drawing challenges, and personal revelations, it fosters lively interactions and laughter. Its accessibility for anyone with a phone adds to its charm, solidifying its status as a must-play party game.

3 Tricky Towers

Stack ‘Em High

With countless games attempting to refine the Tetris formula, few titles capture the addictive joy of stacking blocks as well as Tricky Towers. By merging elements of Tetris with a competitive twist, it challenges players to create the tallest tower quickly while competing against friends.

This engaging take on a classic concept offers vibrant fun and is an excellent choice for those craving a frenetic couch co-op experience, despite not achieving the acclaim it deserved.

2 Dead By Daylight

80’s Slasher Action

While considering horror multiplayer experiences, Dead By Daylight emerged as the standout title due to initial reception issues regarding polish and content. Drawing from classic horror tropes, it places players in the roles of survivors or terrifying killers, creating intense, strategic gameplay.

Current iterations have evolved into a rich, engaging atmosphere full of thrill and enjoyment, though it remains grind-heavy. For those who appreciate horror themes, it represents an excellent multiplayer experience.

1 Palworld

Nintendo Lawsuit Pending

Although still in Early Access, Palworld has garnered enough attention to merit inclusion. Initially skeptically received as “Pokemon with Guns, ” it has quickly grown into a successful blend of survival crafting, creature taming, and open-world exploration.

Surprisingly enjoyable, Palworld frequently receives updates that expand its content, greatly surpassing what its reviews suggest. Despite mediocre combat and a vague narrative, it’s an exciting gaming experience that continues to develop.

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