Ghost Arcade

Overview

Ghost Arcade is desktop projection-mapping and VJ software for visual artists and performers who need tools to plan and run mapped shows. Its breadth is compelling at no desktop software cost, though the current installer requires an email address and Linux is limited to a legacy build.

The desktop app brings surface mapping, show simulation, and live performance into one workflow. Its open-source AGPL-3.0 license permits paid gigs, installations, broadcasts, and subcontracted work, according to the maker.

Key features

Mapping and show planning

Corner and mesh warping, slices, shape masks, and soft edge blending cover a range of projection adjustments. Independently warped multi-display outputs are useful for more complex setups, while the 3D stage and projection simulators allow shows to be planned and rehearsed before performance.

Live performance and visual tools

VJ mode combines two decks with an A/B crossfader, ten transition types, beat-quantised clip launching, macros, and snapshots. That gives performers several ways to structure live changes rather than simply play clips in sequence. More than 180 effects, real-time GPU shader instruments, and ISF and GLSL support broaden the visual toolkit. AI shader generation accepts plain-English descriptions, but requires the user’s own API key.

Connections and mobile control

MIDI, OSC, Ableton Link, Syphon/Spout output, and NDI video over a local network support integration with other performance equipment and software. The iPhone and iPad app adds clip launching, touch effects, mapping, camera inputs, and LiDAR point-cloud scans on supported devices. It is a useful companion for mobile control and capture, but does not replace the desktop editions.

Pricing

The desktop app is free, with all features included and no tiers, trial, watermark, or expiry. It is a substantial advantage for artists who want a full-featured tool without a recurring software charge. The 2.0.16 installer requires an email address; the legacy 1.9 build is available without one, and Linux is listed for the legacy build.

The iPhone and iPad app costs $1.99, paid once. It requires iOS 15 or later and no account; the maker’s app listing states that no data is collected. The site also links to a community forum, contact page, and Ko-fi support, and describes its open-source guide as usually replying instantly.

Platforms

Desktop requirements are macOS 12 or later and Windows 10 or later. Linux downloads are offered as AppImage and .deb, but Linux is a legacy build, making it a weaker fit for users who need current desktop support on that platform. The companion app supports iPhone and iPad on iOS 15 or later.

Who it's for

Ghost Arcade suits projection artists and VJs who value a combined mapping, rehearsal, and live-performance workflow, particularly those who want an open-source desktop tool and do not need Linux support beyond a legacy release. The multiple mapping tools and external control options also make it relevant to complex projection setups. It is less suitable for someone who needs AI shader generation without supplying an API key or wants a current Linux build.

Pros and cons

• Pros: The desktop version includes all features at no software cost, with no watermark or expiry.
• Pros: Mapping, show simulation, and performance controls are combined, including independent multi-display warping and soft edge blending.
• Pros: MIDI, OSC, Ableton Link, Syphon/Spout, and NDI support provide several ways to connect a performance setup.
• Cons: The current 2.0.16 desktop installer requires an email address.
• Cons: Linux is supported only through a legacy build.
• Cons: AI shader generation requires the user’s own API key.

Alternatives

Projection Mapping Software is the broader category guide for comparing mapping tools.

• Disguise Designer is worth considering if you want a free Starter edition for learning, training, testing, or developing projects without connecting to Disguise servers.
• Screenberry may fit personal, learning, evaluation, or other non-paying use; its free Non-Commercial license allows up to 2x 2K video output and renews every 90 days with an internet connection.
• VIOSO offers a free plan with up to 10 saved projects, 250 MB storage, a generic projector library, and watermark link sharing; its Pro plan is €49 a month.
• Christie Mystique is an option if its free Lite edition’s one-webcam, three-projector, and flat-screen limits suit your setup.
• MadMapper offers a free tryout with watermarked video input and output, DMX channels that black out every 30 seconds, and space-scanner resolution limited to one-quarter.
• LightAct has a free Creator edition with all features unlocked and unlimited outputs, but those outputs are watermarked.
• LumaPlane is a browser-based alternative whose free Starter plan includes one project, unlimited planes, built-in gallery media, and fullscreen projector output.
• WATCHOUT is free to download and use, but output devices such as projectors require license keys.

Verdict

Choose Ghost Arcade if you want a full-featured, open-source desktop toolkit that combines mapping, show rehearsal, and live VJ controls without a software fee. Its range of mapping and integration tools is the strongest reason to make it a shortlist choice. Look elsewhere if current Linux support or AI shader generation without a personal API key is essential.