Konami Partially Loses Patent Dispute Against Uma Musume

The legal battle between Konami and Cygames over patent rights involving the game Uma Musume Pretty Derby has reached a new chapter. Official documents from the Japan Patent Office, dated August 12, 2025, confirmed that Konami’s patent was partially invalidated, favoring Cygames.

Konami Partially Loses Patent Dispute Against Uma Musume

In March 2023, Konami filed a lawsuit in the Tokyo District Court, claiming that Uma Musume Pretty Derby infringed on its patents related to game management systems. The company demanded 4 billion yen (about USD 29 million) in damages and also sought to suspend the production, use, and distribution of Uma Musume.

At the time, Cygames and its parent company CyberAgent reported that they had discussed the issue with Konami but failed to reach an agreement, which led to the lawsuit.

The Patent Office reviewed Konami’s patent No. 6727505, related to a “game management device and program,” and ruled that several of its claims were invalid. This means Konami’s patent cannot be fully upheld.

With this decision, Cygames emerges stronger, as the plagiarism accusation loses weight. Furthermore, the court ordered Konami to bear the legal costs, signaling a partial defeat for the company.

Uma Musume remains one of Cygames’ biggest hits, generating over USD 2 billion in revenue since launch. The 2025 decision provides more stability for the title to continue and reduces the risks of suspension or heavy compensation.

via Yaraon

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