Steam launch: Free-to-play anime racing sim racks up 1,500 "Overwhelmingly Positive" reviews just 1 day after launch
After years of success in Japan, Cygames has officially launched Umamusume: Pretty Derby worldwide on Steam, alongside simultaneous releases on iOS and Android on June 26, 2025.
Originating as a Japan-only mobile title in February 2021, the franchise quickly became a cultural phenomenon, grossing nearly US $2.6 billion and inspiring anime, manga, stage shows, and even live events. International fans have been eagerly waiting for this day - and Steam’s charts reflect it pretty clearly. Within hours of launch, Steam players bestowed it an "Overwhelmingly Positive" rating, with nearly 1,500 user reviews at the time of writing.
Let's talk about the Steam debut. It brings full English-language support: interface, voiceovers, and subtitles. Umamusume: Pretty Derby includes horse racing, character training, and idol concert performances in a very unique, simulator-RPG format. Players take on the role of a trainer at Tracen Academy, where they have to guide anthropomorphic racehorses - known as "horse girls" - through daily workouts, races with live commentary, and celebratory stage shows post-race.
At launch, the game gives you over 20 playable Umamusume, each based on legendary real-world racehorses such as Special Week, Silence Suzuka, and Tokai Teio, each featuring unique storylines, training systems, and stat mechanics. Players also enjoy a solid gacha system for obtaining characters and support cards, supported by generous rewards - free SSR tickets, banner promotions, and auto-training features revealed during the global reveal.
That said, some players on Steam are reporting launch issues, but nothing major - particularly conflicts with HIPS antivirus software preventing startup - though community solutions like excluding Steam folders are already circulating and out there.
Regardless, the global rollout is being hailed not just as the long-awaited international release, but as a polished and platform-ready launch. Steam also offers full cross-save compatibility with mobile versions, Steam Achievements, in‑game purchases, and PvP elements.
Check out the game trailer below, and the Steam Store page for Umamusume: Pretty Derby here.
