An upcoming live concert for the popular mobile game Umamusume: Pretty Derby has been canceled in Los Angeles due to difficulties in securing the necessary visas for performers to enter the United States. The event, part of the game's The Stage: World Tour, was scheduled to open this week at the Peacock Theater.
Developers Cygames announced the cancellation, stating that despite extensive coordination and exploration of all possible options, they were unable to obtain the required visas. The company had reportedly been working with lawyers and promoters for over six months to secure these visas, but had not received a response by the time of the announcement. This marks the latest instance of a game-related event being affected by visa complications in the US.
Previously, a performer for the Wuthering Waves tour, Tarokiki, was also unable to appear in California for similar visa-related reasons. Such issues highlight broader concerns about the US visa system and its impact on international cultural exchanges and events. The GDC 2024 also saw international and LGBTQ+ developers choose not to attend due to safety concerns amid a perceived hostile political climate.
The cancellation has disappointed fans, some of whom have expressed strong reactions online. The Umamusume: Pretty Derby franchise, known for personifying real Japanese racehorses as anime characters, has garnered a significant global following. The inability to experience the live concert performance has been a significant blow to the community.