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    Cygames
    Video game development, Multimedia publishing

    Cygames

    Japan flagJapan

    "Best in Entertainment"

    Founded January 2011 Shibuya, Tokyo
    Community

    About

    Cygames launched in January 2011 as a subsidiary of the media conglomerate CyberAgent, aiming to build premium content for the Mobage mobile platform. The studio quickly pivoted from simple mobile games to high-fidelity productions that blend gaming with anime and music. While CyberAgent maintains a 69% controlling stake, the company's ownership structure includes DeNA (24%) and Nintendo (5%), creating a unique network of alliances within the Japanese tech sector.

    Their product line is defined by massive budgets and cross-media storytelling. Granblue Fantasy, released in 2014, became one of the highest-grossing mobile RPGs globally, while Uma Musume: Pretty Derby merged horse racing simulations with idol culture to create a cultural phenomenon. The studio also produces anime adaptations like Zombie Land Saga and manages the Cygames Manga imprint, ensuring their IP reaches audiences across multiple formats.

    In late 2026, Cygames expanded its strategy by launching CygamesEdge, a sub-brand dedicated to smaller experimental titles released three times a year. This move complements their flagship AAA-quality releases without entering the traditional indie space. The company also strengthened its ties to equestrian sports by becoming the first Japanese premium partner of the Qatar Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe in September 2026.

    Products & Sub-brands

    Granblue FantasyUma Musume: Pretty DerbyShadowverseDragalia LostZombie Land SagaThe Idolmaster Cinderella GirlsCygamesEdge

    Frequently Asked Questions

    What anime has Cygames made?
    Cygames produces original anime series based on its popular game franchises, including Uma Musume: Pretty Derby, Zombie Land Saga, and The Idolmaster Cinderella Girls, effectively bridging the gap between interactive gaming and visual storytelling.
    Why did Konami sue Cygames?
    Konami filed a lawsuit against Cygames over the concept and design of Uma Musume: Pretty Derby, alleging intellectual property infringement related to horse racing simulations, highlighting the intense competition in the niche mobile gaming market.
    Is Cygames still in business?
    Yes, Cygames remains an active and highly profitable leader in the video game industry, recently expanding its portfolio with the new CygamesEdge label and securing major international partnerships in 2026.
    Who owns Cygames?
    Cygames is primarily owned by CyberAgent, which holds a 69% controlling stake, while DeNA and Nintendo hold minority stakes of 24% and 5%, respectively, ensuring strong backing from major tech and gaming entities.
    What is the difference between Cygames and CygamesEdge?
    CygamesEdge is a newly established sub-label launched in late 2026 specifically to develop smaller, experimental games at a faster pace, whereas the main Cygames division focuses on large-scale, high-budget AAA-quality productions.

    Keywords

    mobile gamingRPGanime adaptationidol simulationcross-mediagachaCyberAgentGranblue FantasyUma MusumeCygamesEdge

    Sources

    Company Info

    Founded
    January 2011
    Headquarters
    Shibuya, Tokyo
    Industry
    Video game development, Multimedia publishing
    Parent Company
    CyberAgent
    Key Subsidiary Stakeholder
    DeNA (24%)
    Key Subsidiary Stakeholder
    Nintendo (5%)
    New Sub-brand Launch
    CygamesEdge (Late 2026)
    Major Partnership
    Qatar Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe (September 2026)

    Official Website

    www.cygames.co.jp/en/

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