However, while it remains popular with people around the globe, it’s not something that is widely represented in the world of video gaming, which some may find strange as other sports with similar viewing figures are recreated in digital form with much more regularity.
However, the good news is that some standout titles have been produced over the years, so we’ve compiled a list of the best, meaning you don’t have to go in search of them.
1. Starters Orders 6
Although this game was released almost six years ago, it still stands out as one of the most prominent titles for horse racing lovers. It’s a horse racing management simulator, playable on PC and Mac.
You build up your stables and list of racehorses and train them to compete at the most famous races worldwide. Flat racing and jump races are included, with realistic simulated races, form, and race cards, and there are even stewards inquiries if you try to bend the rules.
2. Winning Post
This horse racing simulation from Japanese developer, Koei Tecmo, has long been a favorite with gamers. The first title in the series was originally released on consoles back in the early 90s, but it has become so popular that it’s since spawned sequels across all platforms.
The physics in the game is tremendous, and the game comes with a host of options for the player to get involved with.
To add an extra layer of reality there is the option to place a wager. In real life, you can already lump on the Grand National favourite, Run Wild Fred, courtesy of the latest horse racing odds featured on betting platform Ladbrokes, and Winning Post 8 is one of a handful of games that replicates that element of horse racing for gamers.
The lines between the digital racetrack and reality are blurred even more with all the actual horse racing data from 2018, meaning Grand National winner Tiger Roll is among the in-game favourites for 2019; a race it also won.
Although the title is based around racing in Japan, there are a number of group 1 events from overseas included too. The Winning Post series of games has been around now for almost 30 years and remains as popular as it was back in 1993.
3. GI Jockey 4
This game was released in 2006 but is still a fantastic horse racing title. Released for the PlayStation 2 GI Jockey 4 brought a realistic feel to horse racing for the first time to consoles.
Players could breed their horses, train them and then put them into the races in the hunt to become a champion. Then when in the races, you can control your steed to victory. However, it has to be said it can be tough to get to grips with, but once you get used to the controls, it’s a rewarding experience.
4. Phar Lap: Horse Racing Challenge
Phar Lap is the newest title on this list, and it shows as graphically it’s far superior to the other options listed above. The user interface is easy to navigate, and that’s helpful when you have a plethora of choices to make within the game.
It’s so involving; should you choose to, you can control everything from your horse racing schedule, training, deal with the stables, as you aim to become a respected name in the sport. Also, the competition can be taken online, with the option to race against fellow jockeys from across the world.
In even better news, it’s also available for players who like their gaming on mobile platforms, with downloadable for Android and iOS users.
We hope you liked our look at the best horse racing video game titles; we hope you enjoy your virtual racing career as much as we enjoyed putting this list together.
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