Saddle up, PC gamers—Steam Horse Fest 2026 has officially left the stable. Valve launched its latest niche sales event today, February 19, bringing a stampede of discounts to the storefront. Running through February 23, this short-form "Spotlight Fest" focuses exclusively on titles featuring equestrian gameplay, from hyper-realistic riding simulators to open-world RPGs with best-in-class mounted combat. With the massive Steam Next Fest scheduled to take over immediately after this event ends, you only have four days to snag these specific deals.

The New "Spotlight Fest" Format Explained

If you're wondering why this sale feels more specific than the usual seasonal blowouts, it's by design. As part of Valve's experimental 2026 schedule, Valve Spotlight Fest 2026 events are shorter, highly curated sales dedicated to narrower themes. Unlike the week-long genre fests of previous years, the Steam Horse Fest runs for a tight 96-hour window. This new format allows Steam to highlight specific mechanics—in this case, horse care, riding physics, and mounted warfare—without getting lost in the noise of a general "RPG" or "Simulation" sale.

Best Steam Deals Today: Open-World Giants

While the theme might sound niche, it encompasses some of the biggest AAA titles in gaming history. If you've been waiting for cheap PC games on Steam, several heavy hitters with iconic mounts are headlining the festival.

Red Dead Redemption 2

Ideally suited for this event, Rockstar’s western masterpiece sets the gold standard for virtual horsemanship. The bond mechanics, realistic physics, and sheer variety of breeds make it a must-buy. During the Horse Fest, it's a prime target for players looking to explore its massive open world on horseback at a significant discount.

The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt

Geralt’s trusty steed, Roach, is the star here. Despite its age, The Witcher 3 remains a benchmark for mounted exploration in fantasy RPGs. With its Next-Gen update fully integrated, riding through Velen has never looked better, making it one of the best Steam deals today for RPG fans who somehow haven't played it yet.

Mount & Blade II: Bannerlord

For those who prefer warfare over wandering, Bannerlord offers the premier mounted combat experience. Leading a cavalry charge of hundreds of units remains one of the most exhilarating experiences in PC gaming. The title is currently seeing slashed prices, offering excellent value for a game with endless replayability.

Hidden Gems and Simulators

Beyond the blockbusters, Steam Horse Fest 2026 shines a light on dedicated equestrian sims that often fly under the radar. This is where the "Spotlight" concept truly works, elevating indie developers who focus on realistic stable management and genetics.

  • Ranch of Rivershine: A community favorite for its cozy vibes and detailed breeding mechanics. It’s perfect for players who want the relaxation of Stardew Valley but with a focus on competitive horse training.
  • The Legend of Khiimori: With its release just around the corner on March 3, 2026, this open-world courier game set in 13th-century Mongolia is generating buzz. Look out for demo availability or pre-launch promotions during the fest.
  • Horse Tales: Emerald Valley Ranch: A solid pick for younger gamers or those seeking a more casual, open-ended riding adventure without the grit of medieval combat.

Steam Deck Verified Sales to Watch

For handheld gamers, this fest is surprisingly robust. Many of the highlighted titles, including The Witcher 3 and various indie sims, are Steam Deck verified sales winners. Valve has ensured that a significant portion of the discounted catalog plays perfectly on the go, allowing you to tend to your digital stables from anywhere.

Don't Miss the Finish Line

The Steam Horse Fest 2026 is a sprint, not a marathon. The event wraps up on February 23 to make way for the February 2026 Edition of Steam Next Fest. If you're looking to expand your library with gaming deals in February 2026, now is the time to act. Whether you're charging into battle or just looking for a relaxing ride through the countryside, this sale has a mount for every type of rider.