Cygames to Issue Refunds for 'Uma Musume' Event Flower Stand Issues, Covering for Vendor Flasta

Cygames, the operator of the popular game "Uma Musume Pretty Derby," has announced that it will take over the refund process for deficiencies in flower stand installations and related refund issues that occurred at the recent "6th EVENT The New Frontier" autumn performance. This decision comes after it was confirmed that Flasta Inc., the original vendor, is in a difficult situation regarding issuing refunds, making this an exceptional measure to minimize the impact on users.

The problem arose when flower stands, intended to be set up at the event venue, were either not prepared or not properly installed due to mismanagement by Flasta Inc. Fans who planned and ordered the flower stands voiced strong dissatisfaction with Flasta Inc. and demanded refunds. Flasta Inc. had caused similar issues at a "Project SEKAI COLORFUL STAGE! feat. Hatsune Miku" event, and discussions had been ongoing between the operating companies of both titles.

Cygames initially held extensive discussions with Flasta Inc. regarding the refund process but ultimately determined that the company was "in a difficult situation to issue refunds." To prevent users from suffering direct financial losses, Cygames decided to personally undertake the refund process. This move is being praised as an extremely swift and generous response, going beyond the original contractual relationship to protect user trust.

Following Cygames' announcement, many fans took to social media to express gratitude and praise. Numerous comments such as "Cygames, despite being a victim itself, stepped in to subrogate the payment" were posted, strongly supporting the company's sincere attitude. Conversely, harsh criticism is being directed at Flasta Inc. and its alleged parent company, YataGarasu Inc., with remarks like "irresponsible company" and "should never be allowed to operate in the entertainment industry again." Some users also claimed that Flasta Inc. "announced a full refund but then defaulted" and that it "quietly resumed operations," leading to close attention on future developments.

This series of events has once again highlighted the importance of external contracting in event management and the significant responsibility of organizers in unforeseen circumstances. Cygames' swift response will likely be remembered as a model of crisis management in the entertainment industry.

The context

"Uma Musume Pretty Derby" is a highly popular Japanese mobile game developed by Cygames, where players raise anthropomorphized horse girls to compete in races. It has a massive fanbase and frequently hosts large-scale events featuring live performances by the voice actors and other celebratory activities.

In Japanese fan culture, it is a common practice for fans, fan clubs, or even other companies to send elaborate floral arrangements, known as "flower stands" (フラワースタンド - furawa sutando), to events like concerts, stage plays, or game launches. These stands are typically displayed prominently at the venue entrance or within the event space as a public display of support and congratulations for the performers, creators, or characters involved. They are a significant and often costly part of showing fan dedication, making their non-delivery or improper setup a major disappointment and financial loss for the fans who ordered them.