Tap Derby and Horse Runner DX: Two New Horse Games to Check Out on Steam
I talk a lot about how much I wish first time developers would make smaller-scoped horse games instead of aiming for their dream game and getting bogged down in scope creep for years. As a nice contrast, today we get to look at two recently released smaller scale horse games that may have flown under your radar.
Both of these games came to my attention because their creators used the TMQ communities to find interested players, which I love. They might not fulfill every horse game dream you’ve had, but they’re sure worth a look if you’re willing to try something new and support independent developers at a very affordable price tag.
I haven’t gotten around to trying either of the games, but I’ve seen some appreciation for them in the TMQ Discord and I invite you all to take a look and let us know what you think of them! Small new releases are a great opportunity to prove to devs that our niche is worth investing into by giving them our support and feedback.
Horse Runner DX
Released: 6 March 2025
Platforms: Windows, SteamOS + Linux
Horse Runner DX is a fast-paced platformer where you steer an entire herd of horses, presented in cut pixel art optics. Gameplay includes collecting apples, adding new horses to your herd and avoiding obstacles along the way. Each horse you pick up functions as an extra life and adds special power-ups to your running.
While there’s no community hub, the game’s developer has posted on and invited feedback via Reddit, see this thread for example.
Tap Derby
Released: 14 February 2025
Platforms: Windows, Mac, SteamOS + Linux
Tap Derby is a Horse Racing Sports Simulation that puts you into the shoes of a rookie horse trainer. Horse Breeding was added to the game shortly after its initial release, inviting players to “pair top performers together to refine traits across generations”. Reviewers on Steam compare it to a simplified Starters Orders, and praise the developer’s responsiveness to issues and requests.
