Pony Girls Can Rest Easy: Konami and Cygames Settle Patent Dispute Over Umamusume

Konami voiced concerns about the developers of Umamusume: Pretty Derby.

Konami Digital Entertainment and developer Cygames have reached a settlement in a patent dispute over the game Umamusume: Pretty Derby, CyberAgent — Cygames’ parent company — announced.

The case spanned two years after a suit was filed in 2023. Konami alleged that Cygames infringed 18 patents tied to the game’s core mechanics and sought to halt distribution of the title while pursuing ¥4 billion (roughly $26 million) in damages.

In turn, Cygames challenged all 18 patents, petitioning to have them invalidated and maintaining that no infringement occurred. Ultimately, both sides agreed to resolve the matter amicably to avoid prolonged litigation and to keep the game running smoothly for players.

In its statement, CyberAgent stressed that it “respects the work of creators across the industry, including Konami Digital Entertainment, and is committed to the continued development of the games sector.”

The specific terms of the settlement — including the list of disputed patents and any compensation — remain confidential under a nondisclosure agreement.

Source: iXBT.games