Cygames and Konami Settle Patent Dispute Over Umamusume: Pretty Derby

Cygames, the developer of the popular mobile game Umamusume: Pretty Derby, has reached a settlement with Konami Digital Entertainment, concluding a patent infringement lawsuit that began in 2023. The legal battle centered on allegations from Konami that Cygames had violated 18 of its patents related to gameplay systems, particularly the game's unique "training" mechanics. Konami initially sought over $26 million (approximately ¥4 billion) in damages and demanded a halt to the game's operations.

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The lawsuit was filed in May 2023 after negotiations between the two companies regarding specific game systems broke down. Konami claimed that the gameplay mechanics in Umamusume were similar to those in its own titles, such as Power Pro Baseball and Tokimeki Memorial. Cygames, supported by its parent company CyberAgent, countered by filing invalidation trials against all 18 patents, asserting that no infringement had occurred.

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On November 7, 2025, CyberAgent announced that both parties had reached an amicable settlement, which resolves the lawsuit and the patent invalidation requests. While the specific terms of the settlement remain confidential, Cygames emphasized that the decision to settle was made to ensure players could continue enjoying Umamusume: Pretty Derby without concern. The company reiterated its stance that it did not infringe on any patents.

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This settlement highlights the increasing significance of gameplay system patents in the competitive landscape of the gaming industry, particularly in Japan. The resolution of this dispute without disrupting player access to Umamusume serves as a precedent for how similar conflicts might be handled in the future. The game, which has garnered a substantial following since its global launch in July 2025, continues to thrive, recently celebrating its Half-Anniversary with new content.

Umamusume: Pretty Derby Lawsuit Ends as Cygames and Konami Settle $29 Million Dispute

Despite the amicable resolution, some industry observers have raised concerns about the implications of patent disputes on game development. Critics argue that such lawsuits can stifle innovation and creativity within the industry, as developers may become hesitant to explore new gameplay mechanics for fear of legal repercussions.

Umamusume: Pretty Derby Lawsuit Ends as Cygames and Konami Settle $29 Million Dispute

• “to resolve it promptly and ensure that users of Umamusume Pretty Derby can enjoy the service at ease in the long term.” — CyberAgent Statement

Cygames settles Umamusume: Pretty Derby patent lawsuit with Konami

• “respects the efforts of creators at companies in the game industry, including Konami Digital Entertainment, and the numerous games they have created. Through this settlement, we will once again strive for the further development of the game industry.” — CyberAgent Statement

Cygames settles Umamusume: Pretty Derby patent lawsuit with Konami

With the legal issues resolved, Cygames is expected to focus on expanding the game's content and player engagement. The continuation of Umamusume: Pretty Derby is anticipated to contribute positively to its ongoing success in the mobile gaming market.

Cygames settles Umamusume: Pretty Derby patent lawsuit with Konami