Konamipublisher of franchises such as Silent Hilland Cygamesdeveloper of the successful mobile game Umamusume: Pretty Derbyannounced the end of their patent legal dispute, one of the largest in the recent history of Japanese entertainment.
The lawsuit was filed in March 2023 before him Tokyo District Courtwhen Konami accused CyberAgent —parent company of Cygames— of infringing a patent related to game mechanics. The company demanded compensation of approximately 4 billion yen (about $29 million) and the immediate suspension of distribution of the title.
Agreement and withdrawal of the lawsuit
After months of negotiations, both parties confirmed that the conflict was resolved through a extrajudicial agreement. According to the portal AutomatonKonami officially dropped the lawsuit, allowing Umamusume: Pretty Derby continue operating without modifications.
In a financial statement, CyberAgent He indicated that “a resolution has been reached” and that the economic impact on his performance will be “minor.” Although the terms of the agreement remain confidential, everything indicates that the companies chose to close the case to avoid further legal and media repercussions.
One of Japan's biggest mobile hits
Released by Cygames in 2021, Umamusume: Pretty Derby combine horse racing and idol culturequickly becoming a cultural and economic phenomenon. The title remains between most profitable in the Japanese App Storewith billions of yen in annual revenue and a strong fan base both in Japan and abroad.
Thanks to the agreement, the game will continue to be available unchanged, preserving its status as one of the biggest mobile hits of the decade. Do you think Konami made the best decision by dropping its lawsuit?
