Results of the 2025 HP Player Survey

Hello, and welcome to the results post for the 2025 HP Player Survey!

Earlier this year, we the HP admins posted a player survey. We were each seeking feedback on the areas in which we each are in charge of for HP: Koni regarding breeds being added/removed, BV regarding our social media presence, and I (Blitz) regarding new features and HPP/Achievements. 

We were blown away by the number of responses we received! In total, 44 different players responsed, giving us feedback on the above topics.

In the following first three replies to this thread, you will get each of our responses to our areas of the survey. Please note that, in a few cases, feedback was given in Blitz's section that fell under another admin's "umbrella". In those cases, I passed those along to their respective admin to have them address in their respective sections!

You are (obviously) welcome to respond to our feedback to your feedback on this thread. We just ask that it continues to be constructive feedback, and not turn into arguments. You are also welcome to ask questions based on our responses, and we will do our best to respond (although BV's responses may have to wait, as she is in the middle of moving and is sans computer for the next week or two!).

Thank you,

-Your admin team

(please note that while each of us wrote out our own responses, it is I (blitz) doing the actual posting, so it might take me a few minutes to get the replies on here and make sure they're properly formatted for HP forums! I will remove this disclaimer once everything is good to go.)

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Well said Skell!

Keena I like that idea!

Also, did I read 3 players for cows?! :D

Me too, Keena. Maybe something like this could even be done for the embassies too to make them more active and relevant? I know as the SB ambassador, I try to boost the SB presence on HP. Like I just offered up Mr. Punch's backup (this year's mascot contestant) for sale with A LOT of extra perks to whoever purchased the backup to try to encourage another SB breeder. Which it worked BTW. But it wasn't easy to find someone.

Amberellie i like cows! lol  Yes i like Highland Cows as well...they are soooo adorable! we really need grass puppies on HP...its nice to dream lol 

I used to think the worst thing in life was to end up all alone. It's not. The worst thing in life is to end up with people who make you feel all alone. Robin Williams

me too! especially highland cows!! xD

I think cows would be great tbh.. xD

i agree!! let's bring in all the cow breeds! xD

I've been scared to even enter this because it turned out exactly how I thought it would *facepalm* I may be the lone wolf that would be 100% okay if nothing ever changed xD but I also really like a lot of these ideas.

Specifically allowing Embassies to do more. I would LOVE to have Embassy shows that were only open to those accepted into the Embassy. I wouldnt even care if they were weighted similar to Club Shows bc it would almost make them super exclusive for the breeds they are tailored to (unless an Embassy wanted to accept outside breeds into the Embassy but I don't see why they would- would kind of defeat the purpose of the Embassy) therefore increasing the points available to earn. I know Associations failed in the past, but like Skell said, somethings gotta give so why not give the Embassies back some of their "Association" powers? Maybe a middle ground between Association and Embassy? Or shit give back all the Association powers but leave them as Embassy's. And I definitely think upping the # of Embassy's to 2 horse/2 dog would be great too. I would love to host AmStaff events and shows and create a community of AmStaff breeders with the same goal of making some bombtastic Amstaffs. xD 

I also LOVE adding more ways to earn HPP. I think to make up for the whole glitch fiasco, adding a LOT more ways would be the right move. I do want to ask (@blitz), in a previous reply you said that HP is still bringing in roughly the same amount monthly as it was 5 years ago. Forgive me for playing devils advocate here, but if that is truly the case does that mean fixing the glitch didn't affect much? Or is that why it APPEARS the player base is roughly the same? I definitely see people dropping breeds and accounts so maybe fixing the glitch evened out the massive loss of players to make the montly profits SEEM the same. Just a thought, I don't know if you were pulling numbers from current or prior to fixing the glitch. I definitely don't think fixing the glitch is the answer, but I agree with Skell that a compromise is in order. Which I definitely see you doing by asking for more Achievement ideas so I think just relaying what your timeline is for changing HPP trade in rates and what the value of some of these added achievements may be will *hopefully* appease the masses in that regards. Well, the ones that are appeasable xD

And lastly, just to say it. Everyone just sometimes needs to keep their thoughts to themselves. When someone is ranting and raving they dont always want advice. I've learned with my husband (he can be a bit sensitive lol) that a lot of times when he is complaining about something he just wants SYMPATHY. He doesn't want me to try to fix his problems or give him advice on how to fix them. I just listen, nod my head, and AGREE even if I think that he is bringing things upon himself. It's called being a kind, compassionate, sympathetic human being. And man is it hard sometimes to keep my mouth shut, but it has prevented SO many arguments and so many hurt feelings. And honestly guys, I think a little sympathy and little bit of keeping our mouth shut when someone is simply complaining about things in their lives or how they feel would go such a long way to preventing blow outs and hurt feelings. 

WIth that said, I love this game. It has brought me back from the brink of total life destruction, it has gotten me through my darkest of days, it has always been my escape from daily life. But even more that that I love the community, I love each and every one of you whether we talk often or not. If ANYONE is feeling ignored or invisible please message me. I love to talk and I love to listen and I'd be happy to befriend ANYONE who is feeling "friendless". Now, lets all try to live life both on and off the game with kindness and empathy and a smile on our faces (:

Love y'all, Arzu

”Sometimes people think if they love a broken person enough, they can be what finally repairs them, but the problem with that is the other person just ends up broken, too.” -Colleen Hoover

What about something like shows for Embassies, but not? They would not award horse points. Instead they could award player money, achievements and maybe even some HPP. Or maybe even a temporary perk - win a special embassy class and get a 1 week point breeding bonus for that breed?

Some suggestions are age/gender specific (Mare Class, Stallion Class, Gelding Class, Foal Class, Elder (21 ) class), they could run automatically and winners be randomly selected. And then bigger once-a-month type classes where instead of being run automatically, players can enter a horse (maybe limit how many they can enter for all shows? 1-4?) And other players can vote on it. Shows like a photo manipulation show, best name, monthly embassy mascot, etc.

One thing the game needs is more sources of income, especially for new/returning players. Outside of entry fees for classes and the weekly allowance, there isn't a lot of ways to consistently earn a lot unless you are talented with graphics, have RL money for enough upgrades to sell shows and tickets, and enough time for either. XD This could help a little bit with that.

Oh I do like that idea actually Kiyoko, that would be a pretty good way to add 'shows' but make them different for embassies! 

@arzu - You're definitely not the only lone wolf that would be perfectly happy with no changes. I'm here every day just to train my critters. This game is my calm and relaxing daily ritual and I love it just the way it is. But there have been some wonderful ideas thrown about, and I for one am also happy to see that breeds will no longer be deleted due to inactivity. 

I am also the one who brought up possibly having casual training contests throughout the year. I don't know if anyone else would have any interest but on the other game I used to play the "breed boost" training contests they held were actually pretty fun team building competitions as well. Usually after everyone signed up they would be divided into two themed teams, (for example, pirates vs. cowboys, or other silly things :D) and each team would focus on a rare breed on the game just to try to boost their numbers and interest. This way it also isn't so much pressure or a "popularity contest" as such. 

I love this game and even though I'm basically a ghost that haunts it from the shadows, I can see what a great community is here. Let's all work together and raise each other up and keep this little horsey haven going for all of us. =)

@arzu - love the ideas and I also agree that if nothing changes that would be 100% okay!

@Little Wolf - I think your idea on the "breed boost" would be a very neat idea and I'd actually love if this could somehow be added to HP, I think it would be a fantasic way to increase breed numbers as well as intrest!! 

There's far too much here for my little brain to process but I'm going to put it out there that I do not in any way think that HP has become a popularity contest.

Odette is testament to that.

I'm not 'popular'. I just worked really bloody hard on her concept for months and put a lot of effort into the mascot contest. 

My (not so useful) ten cents. 

A feature I didn't think of until now was the option for players to send group messages. I feel like this would be useful for people selling shows, for example, so they don't have to copy/paste and keep track of multiple message conversations.

Alright. I have a lot to unpack.

1. I love the idea of making the embassies have more power. I like the idea of the assoication powers coming back. Add HPP and points, and something else -- cash shop items -- anything to make it exclusive. Because I think it's a higher honor than being voted into a club. Embassies take years of lines and hard work to get. And like the idea of being able to have 2. either 2 of horses/dog or 1 of each. I currently have (and have had) the paint embassy for years, and no one has ever messaged me for anything on it.

2. @skell -- LOVE the way you summed up HPP -- Everyone go back and read what was written it - so well written. I actually think it's the best staff response on this thread. Overall very professional, addressed the issues of WHAT THE FORUM IS SUPPOSED TO BE ABOUT.... and moved on without overriding anyone's feelings. 

*However* this is where I'm turning into the bad guy:

This survey was so get answers. And we got NOTHING from staff. A whole lot of bullshit. I'm sick of the defensive attitudes, power-hungry, entitled positions a certain of you all think you have. I am SICK of not being heard. I think other players are too.

I read this damn forum to get answers and nothing was addressed. The players turned it into a drama fest and I understand how certain staff memebers could have gotten frustrated. But at the end of the day, this is your JOB - and you JOB is to deal with all levels and ages of HP players. I think it's AWFUL that the head of our game starts a post with "holy fuck" and then continues to swear at players and scold them. If I was a NEW player or an UNDERAGED player - how professional and how much respect would I have for the head of the game? None. It's a horrible example of professionalism and all staff should be held to a higher standard that players. Because guess what, you're the example. And frankly, I think MOST of the drama is coming from the staff -- or certain members.

This forum is about bettering the place. That means as players and as people we HAVE to do better, but put that aside... because on the business side... we are failing. Dying as someone earlier said -- and that's because HP is stagnant. Businesses that are sucessful over a long peroid of time HAVE to take risks. So this bullshit answer of "coding cant, it costs to much, it takes to much time" is LITERALLY the reason we are dying off. You must make the game progressive or it will die.

As a LONGTIME, committed, established player of HP  (and HL) I have NEVERRRRRR gotten the credit or respect I deserve on here. I have some of the top paints, arabs, been club president multiple times -- often over multiple clubs, embassy - part of every single game wide contest and side game, and model citizen of HP... and I get treated like dirt by staff. And I've never done anything to deserve that.

I've tried to apply multiple times for staff positions and never get feedback on why. But that's not even my point here -- I've tried to be apart of the solution and I've been here through the ups and downs and big changes, and I've pretty much kept my mouth shut.... but I've accepted the fact that I won't be accepted on here at the level I derserve, so I'll keep it pretty straight with you all now. I don't care about the player drama, I care about the game play... and the staff have pretty much pissed off a ton of players. a TON of players.... and you're response isn't forgiving. it's get fucked. And it's loud and clear.

I think fixing the "glitch" was a dick move -- and the admin response was even worse. And the "results" of the survery = nothing. Because yet again NOTHING WAS DONE.  -- besides being bitchy staff to players, and players to players. 

I read this whole damn thing to get the answer about HPP and how we were going to progress -- and not a SINGLE answer was to be found. Good job staff -- you posted a few graphs and showed what everyone said.... I also noticed that MY responses were left out -- and I sure as hell ACTUALLY put in professional effort into that response. And it again, wasn't heard or addressed. 

So I'm with the other players that keep putting in suggestions and then eventually we just shut the fuck up -- because nothing. ever. changes.

So shame on you staff -- you admin --- for yet again, mishandling another crucial part of keeping HP alive. I have to wonder if the common denominator isn't the programming or the coding... it's the lack of change in the upper admins.

I know I'm way late to this party, with moving across the country to starting a new job, and overall being overwhelmed and exhausted at the same time, but figured I'd share a little bit after reading over this thread's responses. I'm back, just on the quieter side, and focusing on catching back up and adjusting to life. Whee! 

For anyone wanting a screenshot of all 44 responses regarding my area, in order to see what I had to work around and with, send a message my way and I'd be happy to provide them for you!

To those of you who offered positive and kind comments and for those silently wishing us and the future of HP well - We thank You and Truly Appreciate You! It really helps us keep the spark and will to continue pushing forward to make our little home on the internet the place many of us go to in order seek a little quiet time away from the craziness of this world!

Though it does sadden me seeing a continuous smack of negativity towards one another within this thread. However, I'm not going to dwell on it or rip open more wounds to create even more drama. We as a player and staff base are all better than this, so why let it continue to wreak havoc when HP and the rest of the internet doesn't need any more of it? It's draining on all sides and just plain ugly. Just stop. No thanks.

I on the staff front do try my best to implement any suggestions/ideas/what-have-yous whenever they are asked of or offered to me! Within reason of course. Be it for the site-wide events and for any social media stuff. Like I'm not going to be offering upgrade time for smaller activities or events as upgrades are a form for the game to be generating an income to stay open. But like if more points, hpd, or even Cash Shop items get mentioned I do look at the activity/event and often make adjustments to help it retain participation interest kind of deal. Do I try to make things as fair as possible? Yes! Is it hard when some decide to go about loop-holing things, then even more rules/explanations have to be made? Also yes! (If a phrase or how I have something worded doesn't make sense, please send me a message and ask for better clarification! I'd be more than happy to explain or make things easier to understand!) Do some ruin things for others? Also, another yes, but that's just not within HP it also happens in real life. Can I be more open and work on things? Absolutely! I do try with whatever resources and mental capacity I have available at the time! I'm not the most creative of persons so help is always appreciated! Even if it's a little nudge!

I do love HP and the relationships I've built over the years!
Communication is a tricky beast in general, online communication is even trickier. Tragedy provided a great explanation. It's always a good reminder to re-read things and think about how it all could affect another person on the other side of the screen.

Sat - Ooohh! I like this idea!
If this is something Sam would be interested in, the intern would def need to become familiar with HP and our game play before they get access to the socials, so they don't mistake something on accident. I don't use Ticktock, so I'm just a Facebook & Instagram girlie and often times feel like I'm trying with no in app reactions. :(
"1. RE social media - what if we got a marketing intern for like an unpaid/hella low stipend type internship? It gives them the ability to gain experience while working towards systems to boost our social media with proven methods. (BV this is not anything against you cause ya know I love you!! And your cute little shadow kitty) But having someone with marketing experience or social media management experience in that position seems like a need. And it may be something that Sam needs to think about investing in. I get it's a business and she wants to earn money / keep things maintaining but sometimes you have to lose money to make money - ya know?" 

Uta & Little Wolf - For the smaller scale/casual training contest suggestion - I do love what Uta said about them being "public-show and non-ticket only to make them as accessible as possible - leave the 'big stakes' to the mascot contest." & with Little Wolf's "breed boost" input - Maybe we could focus them around when we have the Cash Shop breeds go into the Store or pick a breed that has 1 search page in active training? 
* When I get re-caught back up with things I will create a separate thread for this idea so we don't chalk up this thread any more than it already is! That way we can keep everything related to it all in one spot too! :D

*bump for hpp answers*

*bump for real results answers*

Hi Lynelle!

You seem to be looking for information regarding the plan for HPP going forward. You can find my plan of that in my initial response to this thread outlining my part of the survey (not the intro post that started this thread, but my response after that one). My specific thoughts and plan are in italics! :) I have already implemented part of what I said I would be doing (adjusting the trade-in rates for HPP) as of June 22nd.

Hope that helps!

-Blitz

"Blitz: My current plan is to combine the two top options. I’m looking at adding more achievements and expand on the current ones (eg. currently, forum posts achievements only go up to 10,000, but we have players who have more than triple that amount). I will also adjust the HPP trade-in rates, as I believe they were raised back when the glitch was originally discovered. I’ve created a separate forum post in the suggestions area specifically for achievements, in hopes to get some ideas for new achievements you’d love to see. As always, no guarantees that they can/will be added (as some are just not possible based on the way the game stores information/data)."

Forum post doesn't exist. And these are all hypotical -- no actual answers were given. So Yes, I am looking for answers. And action.

Additionally, all of this is just talk. How do you propose us moving forward with the game? What are you going to do about all the people leaving because of the corupt leadership we have here? Or the leaders who would rather be unprofessional and emotional rather than get things done?

I would love to see a change here, and with the players in mind. Maybe starting with an apology and then following through on those actions. Admin has been nothing but talk and distant -- unrelatable, unkind and power hungry. 

I am in no way trying to start drama, but simply speaking the truth. Truth that needs to be said, and heard. I have no problem discussing this in a dipomatic way- and actually would love to open that door to discussion and action..... but until then, the lack of action on the Admin side is disappointing - at best. I think frankly, most of this bullshit drama is because of a lack of good leadership from the admin side.

Instead of improving the game, you've been busy "fixing" things that didn't need fixing. Maybe your "fix" actually just put the nail in the coffin.. more players have been leaving. LOYAL players have been leaving... and since we don't have players coming in... how do you propose to fix it? Because you've officially pissed off a lot of good players around here. 

I agree 100% with what Lynelle has said. All the feels about everything. I can relate 10000000%. I've withdrawn to my little corner of HP for various reasons but Lyn has named quite a few of them... anyway with that said, thank you Lynelle for stating the elephant in the room.

from Skell: The HPP glitch for example. If after so many years a glitch has not been rectified, it would be fair for the players to assume it exists as a feature and partially tailor their gameplay around it. If people are using a loophole to circumvent the payment for upgrades using the HPP gains – so what? It kept players here. It kept people engaged in the core gameplay. It kept accounts active, making shows and selling tickets, ultimately impacting the economy. It kept animals breeding, which in turn keeps players interested, keeps them upgrading other accounts, keeps them active in community events, keeps them actively achieving goals and provides them with a purpose in the long run. Surely the business could absorb these real life $ losses – as it had for so many years prior – in the interest of keeping players involved. The removal of this glitch has been detrimental to community morale. People have shed accounts – I just can’t see how this benefits the community and the long-term game success. Sometimes, a shitty win is still a win. I am not suggesting it be reversed, as it was clearly not intentional, however meeting the community halfway would speak volumes

from Lynelle: Instead of improving the game, you've been busy "fixing" things that didn't need fixing. Maybe your "fix" actually just put the nail in the coffin.. more players have been leaving. LOYAL players have been leaving... and since we don't have players coming in... how do you propose to fix it? Because you've officially pissed off a lot of good players around here. 

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Lynelle was really able to sum up a lot of my feelings on this, so I'm just going to add a small bit.

I would consider myself a longtime committed member of this game. I maintain (on average) twenty upgraded accounts, typically have about 200 horses/dogs in training, and often have 10 projects going on at any given time. I also try to sell several upgrades monthly. I don't have this amount of animals to gain HPP, I genuinely love creating different lines and having a multitude of breeds that I will never own in real life. My HPP went to my projects, adjusting lines as I needed and creating whatever as I needed. I came to expect that's just how my gameplay went, seeing as how that's how I had played for... well, for as long as I can remember really. Something I have always appreciated about this game is that you can tailor your playing to your specific wants and needs. With the adjustment of this "HPP glitch", my want for how I play this game was taken away. Now the only way to keep up is to pour even more money into this game than I already have, and I cannot do that. 

It's very sad to see longtime established players leaving due to feelings of not being heard. You know, most of us have been involved with SIMs for a good while now, having started when we were just kids and now being adults. As we grow up a lot of our childhood hobbies fade away due to ~big kid priorities~, but seeing these members leave due to constraints of the game and not from real life... I think that's an incredible indicator that things are going wrong. Players are leaving that have been here since the BEGINNING of the game. I unfortunately am one that will stick it out until a bitter end, having played HL since the day the game went down. However, I have planned and am starting to really look at my lines and see what I want to consolidate and discontinue. I'm not leaving, but I am for sure cutting back.

Please understand that I am trying very hard to look at every point of view. I, however, am just a player and have never held a responsibility higher than that here. I'd like to really just echo that Skells point about the HPP should be read and re-read by everyone and be taken into consideration. Perhaps adjusting the HPP price of an upgrade would have been a better way to go if staff were really worried about the transactions eating away into the income of HP, instead of completely taking away a "glitch" that had been active for years and that many players didn't even realize was a glitch.