Key Skills to Prioritize in Uma Musume Pretty Derby: While many abilities depend on your runner’s strategy, certain skills deliver consistent value across race types. Focus on these first for better results in competitive play, especially as a free-to-play player.
Essential Skills by Category
Speed Skills: Core for Early Builds
- Corner Speed: Activates during any corner—highly reliable and frequently triggers.
- Straight Speed: Boosts straightaway performance, synergizing well with Corner Speed.
- Acceleration Skills (e.g., Last Push): Critical for late/back runners to surge ahead in final stretches.
Stamina & Recovery: Sustain for Long Hauls
- Second Wind: Restores stamina mid-race, ideal for long-distance events.
- Refreshing Breeze: Triggers when stamina is low—excellent for comeback-focused runners.
- Light Step: Passively conserves stamina, perfect for frontrunners.
Utility Skills: Minimizing Risks
- Breakthrough: Escapes crowded positions, crucial for late runners.
- Tempo Up: Gains speed after overtaking—great for pace control.
- Calm Mind: Reduces stress when overtaken, stabilizing performance in PvP.
Situational (Red) Skills: Advanced Tactics
- Pressure: Drains opponents’ stamina—strong in close races.
- Focus: Early-game buff for runners needing a quick lead.
- Panic Shield: Blocks debuffs; situational but impactful when timed well.
FAQ
Q: Which skills should I always buy first?
Start with Corner Speed or Straight Speed. They trigger often and give solid results right away.
Q: Are red skills bad?
No, but they’re usually niche or reactive. Focus on yellow or blue first unless you’re building around a specific matchup.
Q: Can I keep skills between runs?
Only ones unlocked by awakening levels carry over for Career mode. All others reset after each training.
Q: What’s better, healing or stamina-saving?
Healing is more reliable for long races. Stamina-saving is better for short bursts or sprint types.