My Horse & Me (Wii)
© 2008 Atari
Like the Windows version of this game, the Wii adaptation (for one player, Nunchuk required) also features beautiful scenery but a clunky design, following the same pattern used by previous horse sims we've reviewed over the years. You choose a horse, take care of him, practice, and compete in a variety of jumping events to unlock more horse equipment and tracks. You can choose from girl or boy characters, then customize your character and horse with clothes, hair color and so on. You can clean and groom your horse, and learn how to ride with basic dressage and jumping lessons. There are different obstacles in both the indoor and outdoor areas, and players train to win the five international championships. Mini-games include collecting butterflies, herding chickens and catching falling stars, all to improve your riding skills. The game features four outdoor environments -- each with multiple courses that can be tackled at different times of day -- and four indoor locations with their own courses. In addition, you can take pictures of yourself and your horse while riding, then add them to your user profile on the official website (www.atari.com/myhorseandme). Testers were not impressed by the controls or the feedback, which they said was for "little kids." Versions are also available for Windows or the Nintendo DS.
$30, Windows, Wii*, Nintendo DS
Teaches: creativity, timing, equestrian sports, horses
CTR Rating: 54%