Horse Racing Fantasy Community

Part of the fun in our horse racing game is the breeding component, and for some of our players, I can feel the frustration about what these so-called "super horses" do to disrupt what would be considered more normal game play. The super horses (and that's what people call them - I don't) are the component that brings a realm of excitement to a more novice, less-experienced player who doesn't understand the real logic on how our game really works. I guess, if you want a quick thrill (maybe), then focusing on the super horses, or at least putting a few of them in your barn, might be okay. But, truthfully, a lot of emphasis has gone into these horses and nobody knows the long-term results. To me, that is just too risky. Do the so-called super horses get better with age or worse? Does the inconsistency factor stabilize over time or does it become even more inconsistent?

Probably the toughest thing to swallow is when you're in a big tournament and you're committing an excessive amount of game points to make it to a Breeders' Cup final event and all of a sudden that unpredictable race is thrown in, it's almost embarrassing. It's way too early to judge how good these different virtual horses are, and if, at the end of the day, they can produce a positive result for a player's stable.

Just like real racing, we need to diversify. Diversification has always been safe. At the end of the day, a more broad appeal will allow you to focus on what is better from your own experiences, and a lot of assumptions do not have to come into play.

I've received several private messages this past week from players who wanted to know just how big of a stable they should have. That's a tough question to answer. It's like asking a waiter "What's good?" Although we could trust his opinion, does he really know our taste preferences? The size of your fantasy racing stable needs to coincide with what you're trying to get out of the game, how much time you have or how much time you want to make available, how skilled you are in the game and how confident you are that you can produce solid results. And, of course, what does your community bankroll look like? I don't think it would hurt anyone to grow their stable as their skill level increases. But, for the person who just has to have constant action, a few extra ponies might just be what the doctor ordered.

Until next time...

- Fantasyhandicapper