Barbie Horse Trails is a dream game for fans of the franchise and younger players. Although it is only a single-player affair, my kids took turns as they tackled each quest. Furthermore, you can feed, clean, and care for your new BFF. This BFF is a stunning horse who helps you investigate the park and find hidden treasures.
This child-friendly adventure was developed by PHL Collective and published by Outright Games. It is a third-person jaunt with a reasonably large open world to explore. Though many of the tasks are simple, this did not annoy my younger children. My 11-year-old wasn’t so sold on the gameplay, even though she enjoyed the story and the colourful imagery.
Barbie Horse Trails is a tale of help and love.
Whenever your aunt calls for help, you do not ignore them. This is exactly what happens in Barbie Horse Trails! Barbie’s aunt needs help in Canterbury Trail Park. Unfortunately, she has bitten off more than she can chew, and she needs some junior rangers to help save the day. The 2 Barbie dolls jump at the chance to impress their aunt and show off their horse riding skills. Moreover, they assist the locals with every minor task on offer.
I cannot stress enough that this is not an adult-focused game. Although older people can play it, you will find the action to be underwhelming, basic, and far too easy. As such, it will be tedious, annoying, and a little too bubbly. However, if you are a young lover of Barbie, this will be right up your street. Additionally, it is unbelievably safe, and there isn’t a curse word in sight.
Basic action.
You are free to ride wherever you want. But it is the side quests and main goals that drive you forward. Each of the tasks is effectively a mini-game or fetch quest. This is why Barbie Horse Trails isn’t suitable for older players. Younger players, however, will adore the clear goals, basic mini-games, and the sense of reward.
As you explore the world, you’ll find stickers and chests. The chests have customisable objects, food, and other minor bits. These can be used to change your style or the look of your horse. The stickers are used to earn rewards and appease one of the locals.
Looking after your horse is a key lesson. Barbie Horse Trails asks you to clean, feed, and care for your horse regularly. Though none of these are challenging, they add a little depth and a nice life lesson.
Barbie Horse Trails is vibrant but dated.
Barbie Horse Trails isn’t the most modern game I’ve played. The characters are a little rough, and some of the cinematic is rudimentary. However, its vibrant colour palette makes up for the shortcomings. Furthermore, the large world is a joy to explore.
The audio is as sweet as you’d expect. Furthermore, the acting is loud and full of energy. The upbeat soundtrack adds a wholesome and uplifting atmosphere that will make you smile. Additionally, the pleasant ambient sound effects and constant horse noises are a winner.
Simple controls.
The UI is clean and easy to follow. Consequently, the controls can be mastered in no time. Thanks to the excellent tutorial, my girls thrived with little guidance from an adult. Therefore, this is the perfect option if you want your kids to take control in a safe environment.
Replay value is a little limited. Though you are free to explore the park and take as many pictures as you like, this soon becomes stale. Subsequently, only die-hard fans will return to change costumes and look after their horsey friend.
Barbie Horse Trails is perfect for gaming kids.
This isn’t a triple-A title, but the developer still puts on a decent show. The graphics may be a little dated, but that doesn’t matter. The story, safe gameplay, and fun characters make up for the shortcomings. Furthermore, my youngest girls loved the freedom and the vibrant and large world. Accordingly, it is perfect for gaming kids, and I recommend buying it here! Can you help your aunt succeed? Befriend your horse, help the locals, and become a park ranger.
