Controls in
Equestrian Challenge are uncomplicated keyboard controls. Even at high difficulty, it won’t take much practice to master. Jumping, Dressage, and Cross-country are the three competitive events available. Jumping and Cross-country are fairly intuitive: square up your horse and speed up before a jump and slow down a bit to regain stamina. I was a bit disappointed to see that dressage was turned into a rhythm game (press up, down, left, or right to a beat.) I don't get the feel that I am controlling the horse at all through this method. I also hope to see some of the flashier dressage moves included in the final production, like the trot-in-place. To tell the truth, this was the event I anticipated the most in this game. There is so much controlled power and grace in dressage. Given that, and the fact that this type of equestrian sport would be a dream for me to experience in reality, I want to see a bit more sophistication here. As of now, Cross-country is the most exciting event in my opinion; the scenic landscape combined with length and the fast, galloping pace of the event just feels more carefree. I would like to see Jumping and Cross-country events differentiated a bit more in the final game. As of now, the only real difference between them is the fact that you must watch your stamina in Cross-country.
Equestrian Challenge also allows you to develop your horse’s strengths and raise them to specialize in certain events. Raising and caring for your horses seems to be a big aspect of the game, but it’s unclear what direction it will take at this point. You can pet the horse, but the only major reactions you get from the horse are “happy” sparkles and a contented snort. You can feed and water the horse, but this merely queues a sequence where the horse runs off to eat or drink. This horse-raising simulation aspect isn’t very strong at this point. Hopefully we’ll see some better rewards for this part of the game as it develops.
On a side note, it would be possible to make the horse-raising aspect of the game a deep learning experience. I imagine taking my horse through dressage exercises to strengthen key muscles, or teaching a horse to take the correct lead around the ring. This is far more depth than I expect from a game like this. With this being a game exclusively based on horsemanship, it does make me think of possibilities. Perhaps in a sequel, if not this iteration?
One component that did not make it to this preview was the “Ride with a Friend” option. I hope this will be an online option to meet up with a friend who also has the game. If so, it could provide a great incentive to raise a better horse with which to compete. The horse-raising aspect along with this option could provide some great replayability if it develops well. Competitive events were not included at all in the preview version of this game, and that could turn out to be a big factor in providing variety of gameplay.
As I mentioned, the intended audience of this game probably is the younger, female demographic. Parents and grandparents will probably pick it up for that audience. Lucinda Green's Equestrian Challenge will more than likely turn out to be a great value and an enjoyable game for this audience. Depending on how it develops, it may offer something for the older game player and horse enthusiast as well.
