Who would have thought that one of the oldest sports in the world that is strongly tied to heritage would be one of the first sports to go digital?
Yes, we live in times where you can become a racehorse owner, train your horse, and compete with other people all through your computer.
Virtual horse racing is the latest trend to storm the digital world, quickly gaining a lot of traction. But what does this mean for the future?
Virtual horse racing is quite realistic. It includes breeding, genetics, horse form, and more. We wouldn’t be surprised if in the future we will be able to bet on a digital version of the TwinSpires Breeders Cup contenders.
Is Virtual Horse racing going to be the next Esports trend, and what impact will this fork have on real-world horse racing?
Let’s find out.
What Is Virtual Horse Racing?
Virtual horse racing offers a compelling digital rendition of real-life horse races, seamlessly unfolding in the online domain.
Comparable in essence to its traditional counterpart, virtual horse racing revolves around the exciting activity of wagering on race outcomes. However, instead of witnessing live equine athleticism on a physical track, this virtual realm harnesses the power of cutting-edge computer technology to recreate the action.
Betting On The Digital Equine Spectacle
In the virtual horse racing arena, bets extend beyond the simple selection of a horse. Gamblers can stake their fortunes on various facets of the race, including the horse, its rider, and even the prevailing track conditions.
Betting options mirror those of traditional horse racing, encompassing choices like win, place, show, exacta, and trifecta. Remarkably, virtual horse racing derives its authenticity from potent software, meticulously designed to work with algorithms that perpetuate the inherent randomness of each race.
The Esports Potential Of Virtual Horse Racing
Over the years, Esports has soared in popularity, captivating a global audience with titles such as League of Legends, Dota 2, and Counter-Strike: Global Offensive.
However, the barrier to entry for these Esports juggernauts often hinges on the need for high-end hardware and specialized equipment, placing them out of reach for some gamers.
Conversely, virtual horse racing offers a more inclusive proposition, accessible via any device with an internet connection. This inherent accessibility broadens its appeal, positioning it as a prospective Esports trend.
Moreover, virtual horse racing could introduce newcomers to the world of sports betting, simplifying the often complex regulations and terminology associated with traditional wagering.
Additionally, it will get more people interested in horse racing, especially youngsters that are very important for the future of horse racing as a sport.
Its virtual nature enhances approachability and comprehension. Yet, a critical element currently absent in digital horse racing is the requirement for player skill.
Most virtual horse racing games operate on algorithmic principles, where player intervention doesn’t significantly impact the odds of winning.
This divergence from the core ethos of Esports presents a substantial challenge. To carve a niche in competitive Esports, virtual horse racing must undergo transformative adjustments.
Evolving Virtual Horse Racing For Esports
To unlock its Esports potential, virtual horse racing games need a pivotal shift toward greater complexity and player control.
Unless there’s a platform where players can employ their skills to gain a competitive edge and potentially integrate intricate mechanics that demand mastery in equine control, the road to Esports recognition remains daunting.
Additional Hurdles On The Horizon
While virtual horse racing harbors Esports aspirations, several hurdles loom on the horizon. Firstly, it lacks the widespread recognition afforded to mainstream Esports titles. Extensive marketing and promotion are imperative to foster widespread adoption.
Secondly, the absence of genuine equine prowess may render virtual horse racing less exhilarating compared to its real-world counterpart. The charm of actual horses and jockeys can be challenging to replicate.
Lastly, the development of authentic horse racing games represents an uncharted territory that demands substantial investment, both in terms of time and capital. Game developers must seize this opportunity to venture into the fiercely competitive Esports arena.
Final Words
Virtual horse racing isn’t here to replace the real sport but to add to it. It can bring many new fans to the sport and promote it in the best way possible.
Even though virtual horse racing has been with us for a couple of years now, we are still at the start line. There is a long way to go in order for virtual horse racing to become mainstream and navigate its way into the world of Esports.
