Need help getting started on the race track? Here's some information about VR controls and gameplay.
General Questions
Where can I buy the game?
You can purchase Rival Stars Horse Racing here on Steam.
How do I control the horse during a race?
The game uses motion controls, so place your hands in front of you in line with the horse's head and perform the actions with clear, controlled movements. Below are some detailed instructions with diagrams using the Meta Quest controllers. Different controller types might have slightly different button placements and controls.
Holding reins
Hold the reins by pressing and holding both grip buttons on the controllers.
Start race
Press the trigger buttons when the timing bar is in the green part of the sprint bar at the start of the race.
Gaining sprint energy
To gain energy, move the controllers in a smooth up and down motion at the same time. Make sure to hold them straight.
Sprinting
To sprint, move the controllers in a smooth backwards and forwards motion at the same time. Don't whip the controllers up and down.
Turning
To turn your horse, you need to pull the reins back on either side of the horse. Pull back on the left controller to turn your horse left. Pull back on the right controller to turn your horse right. Only pull one side at a time and keep the other controller still. Note: Horses will not turn if there is another horse or an object blocking them, even if it is not in your field of view.
This game mimics the movement of the horse's gallop. Remember to keep up the rhythm when sprinting and gaining energy.
Gameplay Questions
How do I customize my horse?
Get near a horse until you see the prompt to open the Horse Menu. At the menu, go to the horse's information section, and you will find the customize button at the bottom. Select any peace of tack and select them press equip.
Now you can show your style on the race track.
How do I claim rewards/progress through the story?
After completing the goal, a pop-up will appear with a prompt to open the Goals screen. On this screen, you can claim your completed goals and progress through the story using the Claim button.
If you miss the popup while on the screen, you can also open the Horse Menu, navigate to the Goals screen, and claim it whenever you desire.
How do I improve my horses?
You can improve your horse through completing races, even if you don't come first. To do so, go into the Race and Ride screen through the Horse Menu and race on Flat Racing or Cross Country. At the end of each mode, you will receive training points for the relevant Stats of your horse. Repeat this, and you will reach the maximum potential of your horse in no time; you can always race on easier races to train your horse and give yourself an advantage for future challenging races.
What is the benefit of bonding?
Bonding is a system that lets the player feel more in touch with their horses and also rewards players with extra Stat Points. Even though these extra points are not limited by the maximum stat potential of the horse, bonding points are limited and will be distributed depending on the horse's strengths.
What is the purpose of the horse's preferences?
The preference system lets you understand your horse better. By using items that your horse prefers, the bonding process will be more effective and efficient.
Why aren't the controls responding?
Try using the recenter function of your headset. For Steam VR or the Valve Index, press the right joystick for a couple of seconds to recenter.
We'll continue to adjust and improve controls as the game moves forward.
Now head out there and race!