Game: Horse Runner DX
Genre: Action, Arcade
System: Steam (Windows)
Developer|Publisher: Mat Makes Games | Data FTW
Controller Support: Yes
Steam Deck: Playable
Price: US $ 4.99 | UK £ 4.29 | EU € 4,99
Release Date: March 6th, 2025
A review code was provided, and many thanks to Mat Makes Games.
Horse Runner DX – A Simple Effective Gem
Horse Runner DX reminds me of the early smartphone gaming days, a simpler time when you could find countless games playable with one hand, long before the dark age of microtransactions. This game captures that era’s charm, offering a straightforward yet addictive experience centred around, well, horses. If you’re looking for a fun, low-effort game to enjoy in short bursts, this is well worth the ride.
Horsing Around
The premise is simple: you control a wild horse galloping endlessly through the countryside, and your goal is to see just how far you can go. Your horse moves forward automatically, and all you need to do is press a button to jump over obstacles like rocks, water, and hay bales, your typical countryside hazards. Miss a jump, and it’s game over as your horse takes a tumble. It’s responsive, easy to pick up, and great for players of all skill levels.
Run Together, Run Free
Of course, there’s more to it than just running and jumping. As you progress, you collect apples and insects like bees and butterflies (not the usual horse diet, but we’ll roll with it). These increase your score, and when you reach a flagged checkpoint, you earn bonus points for completing specific challenges, such as grabbing all the apples in a section. At these checkpoints, you can also open a box to choose a new horse to join your journey.
These additional horses aren’t just for show. Each one has a unique trait that alters gameplay, such as increasing your speed, slowing things down, or boosting your score multiplier. They also serve as extra lives; if your lead horse stumbles, the next one in line will take over. The more horses you collect, the livelier your journey becomes, turning what starts as a solo ride into a full-on herd adventure.
Extra Challenge
To add replayability, the game offers a series of challenges to complete during runs, like collecting a set number of apples or reaching a specific distance. Completing these objectives earns trophies, which unlock new starting horses.
The difficulty progression is well-paced, starting off easy and gradually becoming more challenging the longer you survive. It’s classic arcade-style gameplay, simple in concept but rewarding for those who keep pushing forward.
Pixel Perfect
Visually, Horse Runner DX embraces a charming pixel art style that fits its laid-back tone. The countryside is bright and inviting, with a warm sun shining over rolling fields and trees. The sound design, especially the rhythmic galloping of the horses, enhances the immersion, making it feel like the video game equivalent of a relaxing countryside stroll.
While the game doesn’t feature multiple biomes or drastically different environments, the variety in horse designs helps keep things visually fresh. For its budget-friendly price, the presentation feels just right.
Conclusion: Whinny Good
Horse Runner DX is a simple yet satisfying arcade experience. It’s the ideal kind of game for short, stress-free sessions, offering an easygoing challenge without demanding too much mental energy. With its addictive “just one more run” appeal, it’s an ideal pick for casual gamers and horse lovers alike. Whether or not you’re a fan of horses, there’s a fun time to be had here. Fancy trying first? A free demo is also available on Steam.
Final Verdict: I Like It
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