Horse racing has captivated fans for centuries, combining speed, strategy, and the unpredictable nature of competition. It continues to be one of the most thrilling sports, captivating billions of fans worldwide through its many exciting aspects. However, despite its massive following, horse racing has struggled to gain the same traction in the video game industry as football, basketball, or even motor racing.
Why is this the case? Which games have successfully captured the excitement of the racetrack for gamers?
While horse racing video games may not be as widespread as FIFA or NBA 2K, the few that exist are well worth checking out. If you dream of managing a racing stable, breeding champions, or simply enjoying the adrenaline of a photo finish, the titles in this article deliver the best themed experiences without the hefty costs of real-life ownership.
But first of all…
Why Are There So Few Horse-Racing-Based Video Games?
Trying to find a quality horse racing video game is like searching for a needle in a haystack. While there are plenty of sports games on the market, the horse racing genre remains underdeveloped. There are a few reasons for this:
1. The Demographics of Horse Racing Fans
Horse racing attracts a dedicated following, but its core audience tends to be older and less inclined towards gaming. Sports video games generally target younger players, making horse racing a less profitable venture for developers compared to football or basketball.
2. The Complexity of the Sport
Horse racing isn’t just about the race itself. The sport involves breeding, training, jockey strategies, and race-day conditions – all of which make it difficult to translate into an accessible game format. Developers often struggle to strike the right balance between realism and fun.
3. The Market is Already Crowded with Other Sports Games
Popular franchises like FIFA, Madden NFL, and NBA 2K dominate the sports gaming landscape. Since major studios focus on these big-money titles, horse racing games are left to smaller developers with limited budgets.
That said, a handful of horse racing games have managed to capture the excitement of the sport. Let’s take a look at some of the best titles available.
The 5 Ideal Horse Racing Video Games
1. Phar Lap: Horse Racing Challenge (2019) – PS4, Xbox One, Switch, PC
Named after the legendary Australian racehorse, Phar Lap: Horse Racing Challenge is one of the most visually impressive horse racing games to date. The game offers realistic race animations, a breeding system, and online multiplayer modes.
What Makes It Stand Out:
- Racecourses and racehorses are beautifully rendered.
- The ability to place wagers which could mimic horse racing free bets in a virtual landscape adds an extra layer of entertainment.
- There is a strong balance between casual play and serious racing management.
If you’re looking for a modern horse racing experience with sleek graphics and engaging gameplay, Phar Lap is a great choice.
2. Rival Stars Horse Racing (2020) – PC, Mobile, Console
Developed by PikPok, Rival Stars Horse Racing offers a mix of stable management and racing action. While it’s less realistic than Phar Lap, the title’s stylised design makes it appealing to younger audiences.
Key Features:
- Players inherit a racing stable and work their way up to the top.
- There is a mix of horse breeding, training, and racing.
- Online multiplayer modes are available where players can compete against each other.
One of the standout features of Rival Stars is its career mode, which allows players to experience the life of a stable owner, complete with breeding decisions and race strategy. It’s an ideal pick for those who enjoy the management side of horse racing.
3. Champion Jockey: G1 Jockey & Gallop Racer (2011) – PS3, Xbox 360, Wii
For those looking for a more hands-on experience, Champion Jockey is one of the most immersive horse racing games ever made. It combines elements of G1 Jockey and Gallop Racer, featuring motion controls that mimic the physical experience of being a jockey.
Why It’s a Fan Favourite:
- Motion-based controls (on PlayStation Move and Wii) create a realistic riding experience.
- Players can develop their careers and rise through the ranks of the horse racing world.
- A tactical racing system is embedded that requires skill and strategy to win.
If you want to feel like you’re in the saddle, Champion Jockey offers one of the best simulations available.
4. Horse Riding Tales: Wild Pony (2019) – PC, Mobile
Unlike the other games on this list, Horse Riding Tales: Wild Pony, released in 2019, leans more towards an open-world adventure. While it includes racing, it also offers dressage and show jumping competitions, making it a great all-around equestrian game.
What Makes It Unique:
- There are over 90 different horse breeds to tame and collect.
- The overall experience is free-roaming, where players can explore and complete challenges.
- It is a community-driven game with multiplayer options.
This title is perfect for individuals wanting a broader equestrian experience rather than traditional horse racing.
5. Stakes Winner 2 (1996) – Arcade, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation, Xbox, PC
A true retro classic, Stakes Winner 2 was originally released as an arcade game in 1996 and later made available on modern platforms. While it doesn’t have the depth of modern horse racing simulators, it delivers fast-paced action with a nostalgic feel.
Why It Still Holds Up:
- The gameplay is simple yet engaging in an arcade style.
- Fast-paced races with power-ups and tactical movement are prevalent throughout.
- It is a great choice for retro-gaming fans.
If you’re looking for a classic, no-nonsense horse racing game, Stakes Winner 2 is a fun, throwback experience.
The Future of Horse Racing Video Games
Although horse racing video games are relatively scarce, there’s still hope for the genre’s future. With advancements in virtual reality (VR) and AI-driven gameplay, future titles could offer an even more immersive racing experience.
The popularity of Rival Stars Horse Racing and Phar Lap suggests that there is a market for horse racing games – especially if developers find ways to make them more accessible to a younger demographic. With the continuous rise of mobile gaming and the increasing interest in sports simulations, the genre could surge in popularity in the coming years.
