Cygames Pays Over $1.1M to Settle Konami Patent Dispute
Cygames has agreed to pay over $1.1 million to Konami, ending a long-running patent dispute that has loomed over the development of UmaMusume: Pretty Derby. While the sum represents a significant cost for the company, it marks a crucial resolution for the popular idol and horse racing hybrid game.
Background of the Cygames vs. Konami Patent Case
The dispute began in May 2023 when Konami filed a lawsuit against Cygames, alleging patent infringement related to technology used in UmaMusume: Pretty Derby. Konami initially sought damages of up to ¥4 billion (approximately $129 million) and requested that the court halt the game’s production. Cygames denied the allegations and filed a petition to invalidate the patent.
Ultimately, on November 7, 2025, Cygames chose to settle out of court to ensure the long-term stability of the game. CyberAgent, Cygames’ parent company, announced in its annual report that it would record a special expense of ¥727 million (around $1.1 million) for the settlement within the current fiscal year. The figure includes all legal costs throughout the dispute, though the specific breakdown between compensation and legal fees was not disclosed.
Global Success and Future Prospects
Despite the large payment, CyberAgent reported strong growth in overseas revenue, which increased sixfold from the previous year, driven primarily by the success of UmaMusume: Pretty Derby’s international release. With the legal issues resolved, Cygames can now focus on expanding and developing the game further in the rapidly growing global market.
UmaMusume: Pretty Derby combines idol culture with horse racing gameplay. Players take on the role of a trainer, guiding the horse girls through rigorous training, physical conditioning, classes, and competitions. After races, the game features “Winning Live” performances, allowing the horse girls to showcase their idol talents in front of fans.
The resolution of this patent dispute secures a stable foundation for the game’s continued growth and development, ensuring that both domestic and international fans can enjoy the evolving world of UmaMusume: Pretty Derby.
