Support cards are the backbone of every successful Uma build in Umamusume: Pretty Derby. Whether you’re aiming to dominate Career Mode or develop a PvP powerhouse, your support card setup will decide how fast and how far your Uma progresses. In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about choosing the right cards and leveling them effectively. Check out Umamusume Pretty Derby Codes for more redeemable rewards.
What Are Support Cards?
Support cards are essentially coaches and trainers for your Uma. When placed in training, they boost the stats your character gains each turn. Each support card is tied to a specific stat—Speed, Power, Stamina, Guts, or Wisdom—and comes with skills, passive effects, and friendship bonuses that grow as you level them up. Understanding how to match support cards to your Uma’s distance type and running style is the key to building a top-tier trainee.
How to Choose the Right Support Cards
When building your deck, consider the following five factors:
1. Training Specialty Match
Support cards should match your Uma’s focus. For example:
- Sprinters: Use mostly Speed and Power cards.
- Mid/Long-Distance: Prioritize Speed and Stamina.
- Hybrids: Choose a balanced mix based on the race lineup.
Cards that align with your training goals help you hit stat checkpoints earlier and more efficiently.
2. Friendship Bonus
Cards with high friendship bonuses give a massive stat boost once the bond gauge fills. These bonuses multiply training output when multiple cards are present at a training session. Look for cards that build friendship fast or add early bond levels.
3. Mood Bonus
Cards with mood bonuses increase stat gain when your Uma is in a “Great” or “Excellent” mood. This bonus can be a game-changer when stacking it with high-efficiency training early on.
4. Skill Synergy
Each support card offers skills—some automatic, others unlockable during training. Ideally, pick cards with skills that match your Uma’s race strategy. A front-runner build benefits from cards that boost early speed or lane dominance.
5. Rarity and Limit Breaks
Higher rarity cards (SSR, SR) usually offer better bonuses and more powerful skills. When possible, use cards that are at least Limit Break 1 or 2 for reliable performance. A fully uncapped card has stronger passive effects and better event outcomes.
How to Level Up Your Support Cards Efficiently
Upgrading support cards strengthens their passive abilities, unlocks new skills, and increases friendship bonus.
1. Use Training Points Wisely
Support cards are upgraded with Training Points and coins. Focus on leveling cards that you frequently use and those that match your favorite Uma types.
2. Target Limit Breaks First
Each duplicate of a support card adds a Limit Break. Limit Breaks unlock bonus levels and make the card stronger overall. Prioritize Limit Breaking SSR cards that fit your playstyle.
3. Check Events and Bonuses
Special events often give out coins, support points, or even card shards. Use these moments to push your main support lineup to higher levels without spending premium currency.
4. Mix High and Low-Level Cards
A common early mistake is using only high-rarity cards. Sometimes an SR with full Limit Break performs better than an uncapped SSR. Don’t be afraid to mix and match based on synergy.
Tips for Building a Solid Support Deck
- Balance is key: You usually want 3-4 cards of your main training stat, and 2 others for complementary stats or utility.
- Use borrowed cards: Friend support lets you borrow top-tier cards 3 times a day. Use them wisely in key sessions.
- Adapt per Uma: Every horse girl has different distance and style preferences. Adjust your support deck accordingly.
Choosing and leveling the right support cards in Umamusume: Pretty Derby is the first step to creating a powerful trainee. Whether you’re racing through Career Mode or prepping for high-stakes PvP, support cards shape your Uma’s success. Stick with cards that match your goals, invest in Limit Breaks, and always aim for synergy across your lineup. With the right setup, your horse girl can reach top form and leave the competition in the dust.