How Do Sparks Work in Umamusume Pretty Derby? (March 2026 Guide)

Sparks in Umamusume Pretty Derby are inherited bonuses that pass from Legacy (Veteran) Umamusume to your trainee, providing stat boosts, aptitude improvements, and skill hints. These inheritance mechanics work through four color-coded types: Blue Sparks (stats), Pink Sparks (aptitudes), Green Sparks (unique skills), and White Sparks (regular skills/race bonuses). 

When starting a Career mode, you select two Legacy Umamusume who transfer these Sparks to your trainee, giving her advantages that can make the difference between victory and defeat.

Umamusume Pretty Derby: Complete Sparks System Breakdown

Spark Type	Function	When Received	Star Impact
Blue Sparks	Base stat bonuses (Speed, Stamina, Power, Guts, Wit)	Start of career + Inspiration events	1★: +5, 2★: +12, 3★: +21
Pink Sparks	Aptitude improvements (Track/Distance/Strategy)	Start + Random during Inspiration	Upgrades aptitudes by 1-2 ranks
Green Sparks	Unique skill inheritance	Start of career (requires 3★+ Legacy)	Provides powerful character-specific skills
White Sparks	Regular skills & race bonuses	Random during Inspiration events	Discounts skill costs or provides hints

Understanding the Legacy (Inheritance) System

Before diving deep into Sparks, let me explain how the Legacy system works in Umamusume Pretty Derby. The Legacy mechanic, sometimes called the inheritance system, is absolutely fundamental to your success in training any Umamusume character.

When you start a Career mode run, you’ll select:

• Your Trainee: The Umamusume you’re training
• Two Legacy Umamusume: Also called “parents” or Veterans
• Support Cards: Six cards that help during training

The Legacy Umamusume are previously trained characters who pass down their Sparks to your new trainee. Think of them as mentors sharing their experience and abilities. You can use your own trained Veterans or borrow from friends (limited to 3 uses per day).

Why Sparks Matter So Much

Here’s why understanding Sparks is crucial for your success:

1. Immediate Power Boost: Start with higher stats than base values
2. Better Race Performance: Improved aptitudes mean better positioning and speed
3. Skill Access: Get expensive skills without needing specific support cards
4. Cumulative Benefits: Good Sparks compound through generations of training

Blue Sparks: The Foundation of Stats

Blue Sparks are arguably the most important type because they directly increase your trainee’s base statistics. Every Veteran Umamusume gets exactly one Blue Spark at the end of their career, representing their strongest attribute.

How Blue Sparks Are Determined

At the end of a run, the game selects one stat (out of five) at random. It then checks the value of this stat and rewards you with a Blue Spark that corresponds to it. The probability breakdown is:

Stat Value Under 600:

• 1★: 90% chance
• 2★: 10% chance
• 3★: 0% chance

Stat Value 600-1100:

• 1★: 50% chance
• 2★: 45% chance
• 3★: 5% chance

Stat Value Over 1100:

• 1★: 20% chance
• 2★: 70% chance
• 3★: 10% chance

Blue Spark Stat Bonuses

The actual stat bonuses your trainee receives depend on the star rating:

• 1★ Blue Spark: +5 to the stat
• 2★ Blue Spark: +12 to the stat
• 3★ Blue Spark: +21 to the stat

These bonuses stack from all Legacy and sub-Legacy Umamusume. For example, if both your Legacy picks have 3★ Speed Sparks, and their parents (sub-Legacies) have various Speed Sparks, you could start with +60 or more Speed!

Optimizing for Blue Sparks

Based on my extensive testing and the current meta, here’s how to maximize your Blue Spark chances:

1. Focus on 2-3 Stats: Don’t spread your training thin. Pick 2-3 stats to push above 600
2. Aim for 1100+: If you go over 1100 points, your odds jump to 10% for that coveted 3★
3. Popular Blue Spark Targets:
   • Stamina: Essential for Medium/Long distance races
   • Power: Critical for acceleration and overtaking
   • Speed: Always valuable but often heavily trained anyway

The “9-Star” Goal

Experienced players often talk about creating “9-star” Umamusume. This refers to having:

• Your trainee’s Legacy #1: 3★ Blue Spark
• Your trainee’s Legacy #2: 3★ Blue Spark
• Both sub-Legacies: 3★ Blue Sparks each

This combination provides maximum stat inheritance and is the gold standard for competitive builds.

Pink Sparks: Mastering Aptitudes

Pink Sparks improve your Umamusume’s aptitudes in three categories:

1. Track Surface: Turf or Dirt
2. Distance: Sprint, Mile, Medium, Long
3. Running Style: Front Runner, Pace Chaser, Late Surger, End Closer

How Pink Sparks Work

You can get a Pink Spark randomly at the end of a Career run. The aptitude is randomly selected from any category in which you have an A-rank or higher. Unlike Blue Sparks, the star rating for Pink Sparks is completely random – you could get 3★ even with minimal training!

Pink Sparks provide immediate aptitude improvements at career start:

• Can upgrade B → A rank
• During Inspiration events, can further upgrade A → S rank
• Multiple Pink Sparks of the same type stack for better chances

Strategic Pink Spark Selection

When building Legacy Umamusume, prioritize these Pink Sparks:

Distance Sparks (Most Valuable):

• Match your trainee’s preferred distance
• Long Distance sparks are particularly versatile
• Essential for characters like Rice Shower who excel at specific distances

Surface Sparks (Situational):

• Dirt specialists benefit greatly from Dirt sparks
• Useful for versatile Umamusume who race on both surfaces
• Critical for Haru Urara builds focused on dirt tracks

Strategy Sparks (Specialized):

• Less universally useful but powerful for specific builds
• Helpful when training against a character’s natural preference
• Can unlock new racing strategies for versatile horses

Green Sparks: Unique Skill Inheritance

Green Sparks are special because they allow trainees to inherit powerful unique skills from their Legacy Umamusume. These are the rainbow-background skills with special animations that can completely change a race’s outcome.

Green Spark Requirements

Green Sparks can only be passed down by characters who have unlocked three stars on their trainee profile. This means:

• The Legacy must be 3★ rarity or higher
• 1★ and 2★ characters won’t have Green Sparks
• You can upgrade characters using Star Pieces to unlock this feature

Notable Unique Skills to Inherit

Some of the most powerful unique skills to pass down include:

• Silence Suzuka’s “Unmatched Runaway”: Devastating for Front Runners
• Gold Ship’s “A Chance to Demonstrate Power”: Perfect for End Closer builds
• Special Week’s “Shoot for the Future”: Versatile activation conditions

Green Sparks always transfer at the start of training, giving immediate access to these game-changing abilities.

White Sparks: Skills and Race Bonuses

White Sparks come in two varieties and represent the most diverse category of inheritance bonuses.

Skill Sparks

These represent normal (non-unique) skills that your Veteran learned during their career. To get specific skill Sparks, teach your trainee those skills during her training using Skill Points.

Skill Spark Generation Rates:

• Normal skills: 20% chance
• Gold-border rare skills: 40% chance
• Skills marked with ◎: 25% chance
• Skills bought twice: 25% chance

When inherited during Inspiration events, Skill Sparks provide:

• Discounted skill costs (30-50% off)
• Immediate skill hints without needing support cards
• Access to skills not available from your current support deck

Race Sparks

Race Sparks are earned by winning G1 races during a career. They provide two benefits during Inspiration events:

• Small stat boosts (usually +3-5 to one or two stats)
• Skill hints related to the race won

The most valuable Race Spark is the URA Finals spark, which every Umamusume can earn by completing the URA scenario successfully.

Inspiration Events: When Sparks Activate

Inspiration events are special moments during Career mode where your trainee receives additional bonuses from her Legacy team. These occur:

• Timing: Twice per career – early April of Year 2 and Year 3
• Guaranteed: Blue Spark bonuses (stats) always trigger
• Random: Pink, Green, and White Sparks activate based on compatibility

Compatibility System

The compatibility between your trainee and her Legacies affects Spark activation rates:

Symbol	Meaning	Spark Activation Rate
◎	Great compatibility	70-80% for random Sparks
○	Good compatibility	40-50% for random Sparks
△	Poor compatibility	10-20% for random Sparks

Compatibility is determined by:

• Matching preferred distances (most important)
• Similar running styles
• Shared race victories
• Overall affinity calculations

Building the Perfect Legacy Team

Creating an optimal Legacy team requires careful planning and understanding of how different Sparks synergize. Here’s my proven approach:

Step 1: Identify Your Training Goal

First, determine what type of Umamusume you’re training:

• Distance: Sprint, Mile, Medium, or Long?
• Surface: Turf or Dirt specialist?
• Running Style: Front Runner, Pace Chaser, Late Surger, or End Closer?
• Key Stats: Which 2-3 stats are most critical?

Step 2: Select Complementary Legacies

Choose Legacy Umamusume that enhance your trainee’s strengths:

For Front Runners (like Silence Suzuka):

• Legacy 1: 3★ Speed Spark + Mile/Medium Pink Spark
• Legacy 2: 3★ Power Spark + Front Runner Pink Spark
• Both should have Green Sparks with escape/lead-keeping skills

For End Closers:

• Legacy 1: 3★ Stamina Spark + Long Distance Pink Spark
• Legacy 2: 3★ Power Spark + End Closer Pink Spark
• Focus on skills that activate in the final stretch

Step 3: Maximize Sub-Legacy Benefits

Don’t forget that your Legacies’ parents (sub-Legacies) also contribute:

• They provide additional Blue Spark bonuses
• Can trigger during Inspiration events
• Ideally should complement the main Legacy choices

Advanced Spark Farming Strategies

For players looking to create perfect Legacy Umamusume, here are advanced techniques I’ve developed:

The Focused Stat Method

1. Choose Your Target: Pick one stat to maximize (usually Stamina or Power)
2. Support Card Setup: Use 4-5 cards of that stat type
3. Training Priority: Always choose that stat’s training when available
4. Target Numbers: Push for 1200+ in your chosen stat
5. Accept RNG: Even with 1200+, you only have 10% chance for 3★

The Balanced Approach

1. Multi-Stat Focus: Get 2-3 stats above 600
2. Flexible Results: Better overall chances for useful Sparks
3. Support Balance: 2 Speed, 2 Stamina/Power, 1 Wit, 1 Friend
4. Skill Collection: Buy many skills for White Spark variety

G1 Race Farming

1. Prioritize G1 Races: Each victory has 20% chance for a Race Spark
2. URA Finals: Always complete for the valuable scenario Spark
3. Multiple Victories: More G1 wins = more White Spark chances
4. Stat Sacrifice: Sometimes worth lower stats for more race wins

Common Spark Misconceptions Debunked

Let me clear up some widespread misunderstandings about Sparks:

Myth 1: “Higher Stats Always = Better Sparks”

Reality: Stats above 1100 only give 10% chance for 3★. The system is heavily RNG-based.

Myth 2: “Pink Sparks Depend on Performance”

Reality: Pink Spark stars are completely random. A poorly trained Umamusume can still get 3★ Pink Sparks.

Myth 3: “You Need Perfect Sparks to Win”

Reality: While helpful, good support cards and training strategy matter more than perfect Sparks.

Myth 4: “Green Sparks Transfer Randomly”

Reality: Green Sparks always transfer at career start if the Legacy is 3★+.

Spark Priority Tier List

Based on current meta analysis and extensive testing, here’s how I rank Spark importance:

S-Tier (Essential)

• 3★ Blue Sparks (Stamina/Power)
• Distance Pink Sparks (matching trainee’s preference)
• Green Sparks (character-specific unique skills)

A-Tier (Very Important)

• 3★ Blue Sparks (Speed)
• Surface Pink Sparks (especially Dirt)
• URA Finals White Spark

B-Tier (Useful)

• 3★ Blue Sparks (Guts/Wit)
• Strategy Pink Sparks
• G1 Race White Sparks

C-Tier (Nice to Have)

• Regular Skill White Sparks
• Lower star Blue Sparks
• Mismatched Pink Sparks

Troubleshooting Common Spark Issues

Problem: “I Can’t Get 3★ Blue Sparks Despite High Stats”

Solutions:

• Remember it’s only 10% chance even with 1100+ stats
• Focus on multiple high stats for better overall odds
• Use guest Legacies to save time and resources
• Accept that RNG is a major factor

Problem: “My Green Sparks Won’t Transfer”

Solutions:

• Verify the Legacy is actually 3★ or higher
• Check if you already have the unique skill
• Ensure you’re looking at the right character
• Green Sparks only show for characters who have them

Problem: “Poor Compatibility Despite Similar Characters”

Solutions:

• Distance preference is most important for compatibility
• Check the detailed stat priorities of both characters
• Some character pairs have inherently low compatibility
• Use the in-game compatibility preview before confirming

Best Legacy Combinations by Trainee Type

Here are proven Legacy combinations for different racing styles:

Sprint Specialists

Best Legacies: Sakura Bakushin O + Taiki Shuttle

• Both provide Sprint Pink Sparks
• High Speed Blue Spark potential
• Excellent compatibility with most Sprint runners

Mile Experts

Best Legacies: Daiwa Scarlet + Vodka

• Versatile Mile/Medium Pink Sparks
• Balanced stat Sparks
• Work well with various support setups

Long Distance Champions

Best Legacies: Mejiro McQueen + Rice Shower

• Exceptional Stamina Blue Sparks
• Long Distance Pink Sparks
• Perfect for grueling endurance races

Dirt Track Masters

Best Legacies: Haru Urara + Smart Falcon

• Rare Dirt Pink Sparks
• Guts-focused Blue Sparks
• Ideal for the limited Dirt specialist pool

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Do I need perfect Sparks to enjoy Umamusume Pretty Derby?

A: Absolutely not! While optimal Sparks help in competitive modes, you can complete story content and enjoy the game with basic inheritance. Focus on having fun and improving gradually.

Q: Can I change Legacies after starting a career?

A: You can switch them out afterward if you change your mind. This is done from the team selection screen before confirming your career start.

Q: How many times can I use a friend’s Legacy Umamusume?

A: Guest Legacies can be used 3 times per day. Plan accordingly if you’re relying on a friend’s perfect 3★ Spark character.

Q: What’s the minimum rarity needed for Green Sparks?

A: Your legacy unit must be at least three stars or higher to pass down a Green Spark. You can upgrade 1-2★ characters using Star Pieces.

Q: Do sub-Legacies (grandparents) really matter?

A: Yes! Sub-Legacies contribute Blue Spark bonuses at career start and can trigger during Inspiration events. They’re especially important for achieving “9-star” builds.

Q: Should I prioritize Sparks or support cards when starting out?

A: Support cards should be your initial priority. Good SSR support cards provide more consistent benefits than chasing perfect Sparks early on.

Q: Can Sparks make up for poor aptitudes?

A: Pink Sparks can improve aptitudes by 1-2 ranks, which helps significantly. However, starting with E or F aptitude even with Sparks usually isn’t competitive.

Q: What’s the best way to farm specific Sparks?

A: Focus training on your target stat (600+ minimum, 1100+ preferred), complete relevant G1 races, and maintain good mood throughout the career. Use specialized support card setups to boost your target stat.

Q: Do Sparks affect Team Trials performance?

A: Indirectly, yes. Better Sparks create stronger Veterans, which perform better in Team Trials. The inheritance bonuses only apply during Career mode training, not in actual races.

Q: Is there a Spark combination that works for everyone?

A: While 3★ Stamina and Power Blue Sparks are universally valuable, the best combination depends on your trainee’s racing style and distance preference. There’s no true “one size fits all” solution.

Conclusion: Mastering the Spark System

Understanding and optimizing Sparks in Umamusume Pretty Derby transforms good trainers into great ones. While RNG plays a significant role, knowledge of the system’s mechanics gives you the best chances for success. Remember these key takeaways:

1. Blue Sparks provide the foundation – aim for 600+ in key stats
2. Pink Sparks enhance natural aptitudes – match them to your trainee
3. Green Sparks unlock game-changing skills – worth upgrading characters for
4. White Sparks add variety and options – collect many for flexibility

The Spark system rewards long-term planning and patient building of your stable. Each successful career contributes to future generations, creating a satisfying progression loop that keeps the game engaging for months or even years.

Whether you’re just starting with character basics or optimizing for competitive play, understanding Sparks is essential. Take your time, experiment with different combinations, and remember – even “failed” careers contribute valuable Sparks to your growing Legacy collection.

Happy training, and may your Sparks always shine bright on the racetrack!