When it comes to sports, we can all kick a ball and find out what it is like to be a soccer player or shoot some hoops, but the situation is different when it comes to horse racing. Horse racing is one of the oldest sports on the planet, it’s thrilling, fun to watch, but fans cannot casually get on a Thoroughbred and experience what it is like to become a jockey.
Fortunately, there are plenty of horse racing simulation games for Xbox, where horse racing fans can ride a horse, manage stables, enter races, compete with friends, and even dive into more complicated things like breeding or managing finances.
The truth is, there aren’t many horse racing games, at least not as much as First-Person shooter games. Most of the horse racing games are terrible, but every once in a while we get a new equine gem that is worth playing.
So, which are the best ones for Xbox? Let’s find out.
When it comes to horse racing games for Xbox, not many come close to Phar Lap: Horse Racing Challenge. This is the best game in terms of graphics, mechanics, gameplay, features, and overall experience.
We are talking about a game that lets you step into the boots of a jockey, breeder, or bettor, racing thoroughbreds around 19 real-world-inspired tracks. They are not the same due to rights, and special licenses that might cost the game developers a lot of money, but still good enough to get that real-world racing feeling.
You have to train horses, manage their stamina and health, improve their abilities through training, and even tweak jockey tactics, and race dynamics.
The graphics are not the same level as other triple A games like Red Dead Redemption 2, but still good enough for a horse racing game. The best thing is that you can switch between career mode and online gameplay, where you can play with up to 16 players.
This is a quite realistic game, to a point where it also has a built-in betting system. Obviously, horse racing wouldn’t be the same without betting, right? Maybe this game will inspire you to chase an underdog. But if you get into real-world betting, make sure that you dive into horse racing picks, and expert predictions on the link below:
https://www.twinspires.com/edge/racing/wagering/
Not many horse racing games are available for Xbox, but Phar Lap is definitely one of the best.
Horse Club Adventures, launched in 2021 by Wild River Games, is Xbox’s go-to for family-friendly equestrian fun, blending racing with a heartwarming adventure. Set in the idyllic Lakeside village of Hazelwood, you play a young rider competing in races, tending horses, and unraveling lighthearted quests, like saving a local festival.
The racing is accessible—simple controls let you steer through obstacle courses or sprint on open fields—but it’s charm lies in its open-world exploration, where you canter through forests or customize your horse with colorful gear. Its cartoonish, vibrant visuals and upbeat soundtrack pop on Series X/S, making every ride a visual treat (thisgengaming.com).
Some fans noted its light challenge for adults, calling it “too basic” for sim fans. With a focus on story over stats, it’s ideal for younger players or casual riders.
Available on Xbox One and playable on Series X/S, Horse Club Adventures offers a cozy escape for equestrian fans seeking less intensity.
My Little Riding Champion, released in 2018 by Toplitz Productions, rounds out Xbox’s equestrian lineup as a budget-friendly option with surprising depth for its price. Aimed at younger audiences, you play as an aspiring rider, racing in disciplines like cross-country and show jumping, while managing a stable through grooming and training.
The gameplay mixes competitive races with role-playing elements—you’ll upgrade tack, compete in festivals, and explore a small open world on horseback. Its visuals are modest, with dated textures even on Series X/S, but the variety of events keeps it engaging (thexboxhub.com).
Despite flaws, its low price and diverse modes make it a decent pick for casual equestrian fans. Available on Xbox One and playable on Series X/S, My Little Riding Champion offers a lighthearted ride for those dipping their toes into horse racing.
So, that’s it, to be honest. As we mentioned before, there aren’t many horse racing games for Xbox. Yes, there are other popular titles like Rival Stars Horse Racing or the Winning Post series, but unfortunately, they are not available for Xbox.
If you want pure horse racing action, then you should go for Phar Lap, but if you want something more versatile, like a game where you can wander around in an open world and complete quests, then Horse Club Adventures is perfect for you.