Retro Replay Review

Gameplay

My Horse & Me centers on accessible yet engaging show-jumping mechanics that strike a balance between realism and pick-up-and-play fun. The core championship mode features over 30 timed trials, where precision, timing, and strategic pacing are essential to earn bronze, silver, or gold medals. Successfully completing these events unlocks new horses and a wardrobe of clothes and accessories for each of the five playable characters, creating a strong sense of progression.

The extensive training mode functions as both a tutorial and a skill-sharpening arena. Here, players can practice jumps, refine their horse’s responsiveness, and familiarize themselves with each mount’s unique temperament. As you grow more confident, you’ll notice subtle differences in hoof speed, turning radius, and stamina, which keeps each session fresh and rewarding.

Beyond the main events, a suite of charming mini-games—such as Chicken ’n Corn, Memory Lane, and Butterfly Fields—breaks up the competitive pace. Chicken ’n Corn challenges you to guard your feed from cheeky fowl, while Memory Lane tests your recall with sequences of objects. Butterfly Fields tasks you with gathering colorful butterflies and delivering them to matching flower beds. These bite-sized diversions inject lighthearted variety and reward players with extra unlockables.

Adding another layer of interaction, the grooming mode lets you pamper your horse using tools like hoses, sponges, and both hard and soft brushes. Proper grooming not only boosts your bond with your equine companion but also nets additional outfits and accessories. This blend of competitive jumping, playful mini-games, and horse care keeps the gameplay loop varied and engaging.

Graphics

The visual design of My Horse & Me leans into a bright, family-friendly aesthetic. Arenas sparkle under clear skies, and paddocks are dotted with vibrant flowers and lush grass. While textures may appear simple compared to high-end simulations, the overall color palette and smooth frame rate create an inviting world that appeals to younger players and horse enthusiasts alike.

Character and horse models are well-proportioned, with animations that capture the grace of show jumping. You’ll notice details like the rhythmic swish of a tail mid-air and the subtle stretch of muscles as your horse clears each fence. Though environments lack photo-realism, the art direction effectively conveys the excitement of equestrian competition without overwhelming system resources.

Menus and HUD elements are cleanly laid out, ensuring quick access to event schedules, medal counts, and customization options. Icons for grooming tools, clothing, and accessories are intuitive, making it easy to switch brushes or try on a new riding jacket between rounds. Overall, the presentation strikes a good balance between functionality and visual charm.

Story

Rather than a linear narrative, My Horse & Me delivers a personal progression story driven by the relationship between rider and horse. There’s no voiced plot or branching dialogue trees—instead, your “story” unfolds through collection, competition, and care. Unlocking a new steed or earning a gold medal feels like a milestone in your equestrian journey.

Character personalities are hinted at through brief introductions and celebratory animations between events, but the emphasis remains squarely on gameplay progression. If you’re seeking an epic tale with cutscenes and scripted twists, this title may feel light on story beats. However, the game’s everyday moments—brushing down a muddy horse or gearing up for a championship jump—create a warm, slice-of-life atmosphere.

The lack of an overarching narrative is offset by the FEI licensing, which lends authenticity to your competitive pursuits. Each medal you earn and every new horse you unlock contributes to an emergent story of triumph, dedication, and growth. In this way, the narrative is what you make of it, shaped by your personal goals and accomplishments.

Overall Experience

My Horse & Me offers a well-rounded package for equestrian fans and casual gamers looking for a light simulation experience. The learning curve is gentle—controls feel responsive, tutorials are clear, and the reward structure encourages steady improvement. Mini-games and grooming activities serve as fun palate cleansers between jump courses, keeping engagement high even after dozens of rounds.

While the graphics won’t rival blockbuster sports titles, the stylized presentation perfectly suits the game’s wholesome tone. Performance remains consistent, and loading times are minimal, allowing players to dive right into the next event or customization menu. The FEI license adds a layer of legitimacy, ensuring that jump heights, course layouts, and medal standards mirror real-world show jumping practices.

Ultimately, this title shines brightest for those who enjoy light simulation, character customization, and a gentle progression system. It may not satisfy hardcore simulation purists craving ultra-realistic physics or narrative-driven campaigns, but it’s an excellent pick for families, younger players, and anyone enchanted by the world of horses. If you’ve ever dreamed of training, grooming, and jumping your own virtual steed, My Horse & Me delivers a charming, rewarding experience.

Retro Replay Score

5.7/10