Riding Horses

Riding Horses is a simulation video game released in 2016 for personal computers and consoles. The game places the player in the role of a stable manager and equestrian rider. The primary objective is to care for, train, and compete with a stable of horses across various disciplines, including dressage, show jumping, and cross-country. The game features a realistic day-night cycle and dynamic weather system that affects horse performance and track conditions. Players can customize horse coats, tack, and stable facilities. The game world is an open environment with multiple arenas, trails, and competition grounds.

Gameplay is divided into stable management and riding. In the stable, players feed, groom, and clean stalls using context-sensitive prompts. Riding controls utilize a dual-stick scheme. The left analog stick controls horse direction and speed; pushing forward increases gait from walk to trot to canter to gallop. The right analog stick controls the horse’s head and body position for steering precision and collection. The left trigger applies a half-halt to rebalance the horse before turns or jumps. The right trigger initiates a jump when near an obstacle; holding it adjusts jump arc. The A button performs a whip or leg aid to encourage forward movement. The B button activates a backup camera for rear visibility. Tactical techniques include using the half-halt before sharp turns to prevent loss of momentum. In jumping, releasing the right trigger at the peak of the jump allows for a smoother landing. For dressage, maintaining a steady left stick pressure and subtle right stick adjustments produces higher accuracy scores. Cross-country requires managing stamina by alternating between canter and trot using the left stick’s pressure sensitivity.