The PlayStation Portable (PSP) was a popular handheld gaming console developed and marketed by Sony Computer Entertainment which had a wide range of games, including some good horse racing titles. The PSP was first released in Japan in the year 2004.
It had advanced graphics capability and the ease of carrying it and playing on the go made it a popular mobile gaming device. It was discontinued in 2014. If you’re a fan of horses and racing, the PSP has many options that will make you experience the thrill of the track.
PSP Horse Racing Games
Let’s review the best horse racing games for the PSP and discuss what each game offers so you can find the right one for you.
Gallop Racer 2004
Developed by Tecmo, Gallop Racer 2004 is a horse racing simulation game that focuses on racing and managing your own racehorses. In the game, you play as a jockey and also can breed, train, and race your own horses. You have to build a successful stable, win races, and achieve the rank of a top jockey. Players select their horses based on traits like speed, stamina and racing style.
During races, you have to manage your horse’s energy, positioning, and pacing to win. As you win races, you will earn money and unlock better horses. If you enjoy management and the thrill of racing, Gallop Racer 2004 is a great choice.
My Horse & Me
Developed by Woedend! Games, My Horse & Me is a simulation game based on the bond between players and their horses. It is a horse care and equestrian game all about horse care, training, and competitive events. Players experience what it’s like to own and cafe for a horse while nurturing and building trust while also competing in equestrian sports.
Players start by choosing and customizing their horse where they can select colour, markings, and equipment. Players have to take care of their horses by feeding, grooming, and training them to keep them happy and fit. The relationship you build with the horse will affect their performance during events. My Horse & Me will give you a relaxing and engaging experience.
G1 Jockey 3
G1 Jockey 3 is a horse racing simulation game that is all bout the thrill and challenge of managing a horse’s performance during races, with realistic controls and race strategies. Players are in the role of a professional jockey and start by creating their jockey and building a career in horse racing.
The gameplay involves training your horse, managing its speed and stamina, and making strategic decisions to position the horse effectively on the racetrack. It gives a realistic feel such as controlling the reins, pacing and timing your final sprint. Players also need to develop good relationships with trainers and horses. G1 Jockey 3 is an ideal choice if you’re interested in a realistic horse racing experience with a focus on strategy and skill.
Derby Time
Developed and published by Sony Computer Entertainment, Derby Time is a horse racing simulation game focused on immersive, fast-paced racing with easy and accessible gameplay. It has vibrant graphics and straightforward controls. In this game, players can choose their horse, participate in a series of races, and advance through career mode. During races, players manage their horse’s stamina, speed, and positioning to overtake opponents and hit top speeds at the right moments. The game also includes a multiplayer mode where you can compete against friends. Derby Time is a great pick if you’re looking for a fun and less complicated horse racing game.
Winning Post 7
Developed and published by Koei, Winning 7 is a horse racing and management game that combines in-depth breeding, training, and racing mechanics with a focus on strategy. This game provides players with control over different aspects of managing a successful horse racing stable. Players take on the role of a stable owner who is responsible for breeding, training, and racing horses.
Players must consider each horse’s attributes and potential, balancing speed, stamina, and temperaments to prepare for competitive races. Winning Post 7 also has a seasonal calendar with various events. The game is an excellent choice for those interested in the racing and management aspects of the sport.
Champion Jockey: G1 Jockey & Gallop Racer
Champion Jockey: G1 Jockey & Gallop Racer merges the two popular horse racing series that we mentioned above, G1 Jockey and Gallop Racer, into one detailed horse racing simulation. Developed by Koei, the game offers an authentic jockey experience with the tactical elements of jockeying along with the fast-paced excitement of competitive races.
In this game, players step into the role of a professional jockey and participate in races that require both skill and strategy. Each race requires carefully timed sprints and maintaining control over the horse’s pace. The game has a career mode where players can go from a rookie jockey to a seasoned champion. With options for multiplayer, Champion Jockey also lets you race against friends.
Phar Lap: Horse Racing Challenge
Released in 2019, Phar Lap: Horse Racing Challenge is a horse racing simulation that brings the thrill of horse racing to a global audience. It is named after the legendary racehorse Phar Lap. In this game, players can breed, train, and race horses across various tracks and tournaments.
The game has detailed customization, where players can create and manage their own stables, and make choices to increase their horses’ speed, stamina, and performance. Training modes help improve each horse’s stats. It has stunning graphics that feel realistic with dynamic weather conditions and lifelike horse movements and physics. In total, is a well-rounded horse racing game with a focus on both racing and management.
Riding Star
Riding Star is an equestrian sports simulation game that focuses on a variety of horse-riding disciplines, including show jumping, dressage, and cross-country. It has a realistic portrayal of equestrian events.
Players take on the role of a rider competing in events. Each discipline requires different skills and strategies. Players can choose and customize their horses, practice training exercises, and build skills over time to improve performance. Each event requires careful handling, balancing speed, accuracy, and the horse’s stamina to complete the courses successfully.
Also, Read: The Most Popular Mobile Games In The UK In 2024
Final Thoughts
The PSP has a diverse range of horse racing games that will suit different tastes and gameplay styles. There’s something for everyone with realistic racing simulations, light-hearted pony games, management-focused games and more.
Choosing the right game depends on what you enjoy the most: the thrill of racing, the strategy of managing horses or bonding with your horses. You can choose the perfect horse racing experience that suits your interest by considering each game’s gameplay, style, and focus. Happy racing!
