Welcome to the exciting world of horse racing games! Well, to be honest, it isn’t as exciting as other genres in the gaming industry due to the lack of games.
However, over the last three decades, there have been some terrible and some quite entertaining horse racing games.
Whether you’re a dedicated equestrian enthusiast or a gaming aficionado seeking an adrenaline rush, these virtual experiences offer a thrilling escape into the realm of equine athleticism.
While we wait for the 2023 Belmont Stakes contenders to race on June 10th, join us as we explore the top horse racing games ever created, ranked from the finest to the ones that fell short. Get ready to gallop into a world of excitement!
Horse Racing Games – From Best to Worst (Ranked)
‘Winning Post’ Series: A Rich Racing Legacy
Developer: Koei Tecmo Release
Dates: Various releases since 1993
One of the leading franchises in the horse racing gaming industry is the Winning Post, which is also a most frequently updated game. With the latest released game this year, the Winning Post 10, this is easily one of the best horse racing games due to the recent improvements.
The popular “Winning Post” series highlights the tactical aspect of horse racing games. These Koei Tecmo games, which center on managing and raising horses, let players immerse themselves in the exhilarating world of horse ownership, breeding, and racing. The ‘Winning Post’ games offer a distinctive viewpoint on the sport of kings thanks to their intricate gameplay mechanics and strategic decision-making.
Phar Lap: Horse Racing Challenge
Developer: PikPok
Release Dates: 2019 (PC, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch)
‘Phar Lap: Horse Racing Challenge’ lets you put yourself in the shoes of one of the greatest racehorses ever and get to experience the sport of kings in first- or third-person view. The Phar Lap game, created by PikPok, gives players the ability to train, race, and compete like this great champion.
Relive the grandeur of a real racing classic while enjoying magnificent visuals, fun gameplay, and historical accuracy.
Since we are talking about not too old game, we can easily say that the game features graphics, and mechanics that are made for modern times. It has an immersive gaming experience and plenty of things to do that go behind the curtains of horse racing.
Rival Stars Horse Racing
Developer: PikPok
Release Dates: 2019 (iOS, Android), 2020 (PC, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch)
It seems like PikPok dominates the horse racing gaming world with many games that push the industry forward. With Rival Stars Horse Racing, which is primarily mobile-focused game, they’ve changed a lot of things.
Bringing a fresh and engaging approach to horse racing games, ‘Rival Stars Horse Racing’ earns its place on our list. Developed by PikPok, this game combines immersive graphics, intuitive controls, and a captivating storyline. Breed and train your horses, compete in races, and manage your own stable as you rise through the ranks of the racing world.
G1 Jockey 4
Developer: Koei
Release Dates: 2006 (Europe), 2007 (Japan)
G1 Jockey 4 is one of the games that capture a jockey experience. This game was created by Koei, and it perfectly portrays the spirit of horse racing with its realistic horse motions, intricate graphics, and difficult race conditions.
Take on the role of a rider, participate in major races, and experience the surge of adrenaline as you make your way through demanding challenges. The gold standard for accurate jockey simulation is G1 Jockey 4.
Since it is not so recent game, we cannot expect state-of-the-art graphics and mechanics. However, this game stood the test of time and even with not-so-realistic visuals, it was and still is quite popular.
‘Gallop Racer’ Series
Developer: Tecmo
Release Dates: Various releases from 1996 to 2011
Although Gallop Racer is one of the pioneers of the horse racing gaming industry, there is no doubt that they are falling back from the competition. Their games might be fun to play, but the poor graphics and not-so-controllable mechanics set this game as the worst on our list.
Gallop Racer over the years improved a few things, but it is still not the best game to go for if you want to see what is like to become a jockey.
However, due to its popularity and the importance of the game for the entire horse racing gaming industry, it deserves a spot on our list.
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