Barbie Horse Adventures - Blue Ribbon Race
Ages: 5 and up

This is the third of Barbie/Horse three styles. Each Barbie Horse Adventures exploits the platform it is on - and this one is very fine. Instead of a side scroller, you have an isometric view so Barbie and her horse are free to move in any direction. Which brings up the subject of the controls. They are somewhat unresponsive and the action button seems to have parental control in that it doesn't let you go where it doesn't want you to go. But the game is so good that you'll just have to get over it.

The animation is a wonderful surprise. Barbie can mount and dismount her horse (in special areas) and your horse can walk, jump and gallop. In racing you will encounter various obstacles - muddy ground, tricky bridges, hurdles you will have to jump over and markers you will have to navigate around. Even with horses, clothes are important so you can choose an outfit and the color of your horse. There are mini-games for fun and extra credit. Hints come in Sim-like thought bubbles. If you are one of those people who have all the game machines - I can see you buying all of the Horse Adventures games.

Now if they would put a little weight on Barbie - it would be perfect.

Reviewed by: Editor - 12/03