The Bottom Line
With an improved interface and tutorial, I'd recommend this game, but the difficult interface will leave many players wondering what to do next and how to find it.
Pros
- 3 modes of play - owner, race, bet
- challenging
- 3 levels of difficulty
Cons
- confusing interface
- no tutorial
- no excitement in races
Description
- Publisher: Global Star Software Released: July 2003
- Own a stable and earn fame to bring the races to your track.
- As the owner, you hire the staff, make doctor appointments, hire jockey, and construct buildings.
- Don't just watch the race from the sidelines, be the jockey!
- Take part in the betting experience. Start with a bit of cash in the hopes of making millions.
- When betting learn track layouts, get an analysis, and listen to bookies to pick the winner.
- Pick and choose the races your horses race on in the Stable mode.
- Build a stable from your choice of locations around the world.
Guide Review - "Final Stretch : Horse Racing Sim"
"Final Stretch" isn't that bad. It has a few key problems that need to be fixed. The first is the lack of tutorial and direction. After getting beyond the initial setup screens, who knows what to do next. The second problem is the lack of excitement during the horse races. I felt nothing watching the horses race. There's a couple sound clips (I thought there'd be more!), the horses look the same, and usually stay together until the end.
The betting aspect I did enjoy, although I think I won maybe 3 times. It's difficult and my lack of knowledge didn't help. Asking the bookies for help does help though.
Pick "Final Stretch" up if you are willing to have a little patience and put some time into the game. Strategy lovers will enjoy this one.
