The central part of gameplay, though, is riding horses by various methods, including trick riding and participation in horse racing. Horses may become lost, whereupon players will have to find them. Players tame, feed, groom, and train horses.
Gameplay is based around various aspects of equestrianism, with the precise activities varying from game to game in the series. Settings range from natural ( hills and woodlands) to artificial (horse ranches and racetracks). Players take on the roles of Barbie as well as other members of Barbie's friends and family.