It’s not all about guns and escape rooms. Or even rhythm action games. VR has the opportunity to be so many things, to so many people. Available now, Rival Stars Horse Racing: VR Edition proves that this horse has legs, delivering a comprehensive horse racing management sim, with a side of virtual pet.
The Rival Stars Horse Racing Series
Rival Stars Horse Racing: VR Edition is the debut VR entry in the world’s most downloaded horse racing and equestrian mobile game franchise. Developed by PikPok, the game sees players quitting their city job to take ownership of a ranch. You’ll breed, raise, and race equine partners in an immersive VR simulation built from the ground up to capture the equestrian lifestyle. As our partners at 131XR can attest; this is no simple port. The game takes full advantage of the opportunities afforded by VR.
You’ll take up the reins while competing in high-speed races, with and accessible VR controls, across six locations. Both single-player and online multiplayer races are available, and you’ll have to work in tandem with your steeds – training and upgraded their abilities – to progress through the story.
Of course, for those less concerned with the challenge and more interested in the equestrian nature of it all, you’ll be caring for your horses throughout. Cleaning, feeding and taking them on open world adventures across a decent-sized map featuring plenty of points of interest.
Rival Stars Horse Racing: VR Edition Review
Free-roaming rides and virtual pet sims are all well-and-good, but the story mode of the game may not be what you expect. As you can see in the review from 131XR below, the game is delivered more akin to a sports management sim than a virtual pet simulator. What’s more, the quality of the usage of VR on show is exemplary. Surely not what many would be expecting from a title of this nature.
Rival Stars Horse Racing Launch
Developer PikPok has promised ‘multiple post-launch updates’. The first major update includes additional celebrations, smoother world navigation, and expanded horse animations. Future updates will include a new Trophy Room to celebrate past victories, Horse Markets to bolster even the best stables, and additional locations to explore and tracks to master.
“Rival Stars Horse Racing: VR Edition brings the ranch to the living room for all,” said PikPok CEO Mario Wynands. “We hope both long-time franchise fans and newcomers to Rival Stars will enjoy bonding and racing with their beautiful horses.”
The game is available now on Meta Quest 2, Meta Quest 3, Meta Quest 3S and SteamVR for $19.99 USD. Are you looking to be surprised by a comprehensive VR sports management sim? Let us know in the comments below if you’re checking out this equestrian fare!
