In recent weeks, Umamusume: Pretty Derby has captured the gaming community’s attention, and if you haven’t experienced it yet, you might wonder what all the buzz is about. Although Umamusume just launched in the United States last month, it has been a phenomenon in Japan since its original release in 2021. The game has expanded its reach through various anime adaptations, manga series, a sponsorship deal with the Kentucky Derby, and even a feature film.
Recently, gamers in the US and Europe have started embracing Umamusume primarily due to its outrageous concept. However, many players are pleasantly surprised by the depth and quality of gameplay it offers. A significant number of players find themselves enjoying the experience much longer than anticipated. If you’re curious about what makes this game so captivating, read on for compelling reasons to check it out yourself.
Discover the Unique World of Umamusume: Pretty Derby
Unveiling the Intriguing Storyline
The core concept of Umamusume revolves around the intriguing idea that when a racehorse achieves remarkable success on the racetrack, it has the potential to be reincarnated as an anime horse girl after its passing. These Umamusume (which translates to “horse girl“) not only get to engage in races for accolades and rewards but also participate in idol concerts that form part of the game’s unique charm.
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In Umamusume, you step into the role of a trainer employed by Tracen Academy, guiding your Umamusume to achieve victory on the racetrack. The game features multiple game modes, including a captivating story mode and an episodic career path. The core gameplay involves selecting experienced Umamusume to mentor your team members while determining which specific stats to enhance during their training sessions. This strategic element adds depth to the gaming experience.
Umamusume is decidedly more of a strategy game than a racing game.
Successful training requires you to manage your Umamusume’s energy, mood, and overall demeanor while also considering the unique conditions of each racetrack. This aspect of the game is reminiscent of Fire Emblem: Three Houses, where effective training and time management are crucial. It’s essential to note that all gameplay occurs off the track; Umamusume is fundamentally a strategy game rather than a racing simulation. Your primary role is to develop your characters, after which they automatically race based on your training decisions.
However, it’s important to highlight that Umamusume operates as a gacha game, incorporating many common elements of the genre. Players encounter microtransactions, time-sensitive events, and character banners for collection. Progression may feel slow without financial investment, and the random number generator (RNG) can lead to unexpected setbacks. Nevertheless, these mechanics do not significantly detract from the enjoyment of the game, and it’s entirely feasible to engage with Umamusume without spending money.
Reasons Behind the Surge in Popularity of Umamusume: Pretty Derby
Captivating Gamers with a Unique Premise
Umamusume has achieved remarkable success with a substantial player base, particularly given its unique premise. As of now, it boasts approximately 47,000 concurrent players on Steam, nearing its all-time peak and maintaining an Overwhelmingly Positive rating from over 8,000 reviews. This figure doesn’t even consider the vast number of players enjoying the game on mobile platforms. Interestingly, Umamusume currently has a player count that surpasses that of Elden Ring.
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Above all, it seems that the captivating premise of Umamusume serves as a major draw for players. Its popularity has been further amplified by popular Twitch streamers like Northernlion and Vinesauce, who have showcased the game to their audiences, helping it gain traction in the gaming community.
Once players download Umamusume, they often find themselves enchanted by its straightforward yet richly satisfying strategic gameplay, coupled with its unapologetic embrace of a whimsical universe. The game confidently embodies its identity, presenting characters that are portrayed with humor and genuine emotion—without compromising on excitement. Players become deeply invested in their training regimens and cheer for their Umamusume as they sprint towards the finish line. The joy of victory is truly exhilarating, while the disappointment of defeat can be quite heart-wrenching.
The amounts of money poured into it, the horses’ strong personalities, the stakes involved in winning or losing, are endlessly interesting.
Most characters in Umamusume are inspired by actual racehorses, which has reignited interest in the history of horse racing in Japan. One standout character, Gold Ship, a stallion known for his quirky behavior and unique temperament, has captured the hearts of fans. The fascinating world of horse racing—complete with the vast sums of money involved, the distinct personalities of the horses, and the high stakes of competition—adds layers of intrigue and excitement to the game.
While its free-to-play model has certainly contributed to its widespread appeal, it is ultimately the Umamusume‘s distinctive and entertaining premise that keeps players returning for more. With nothing to lose but your time, why not take a chance on Umamusume: Pretty Derby? The experience could be incredibly rewarding!
Source: Steam
