Side by side
Ghost Arcade vs MapMap
Both stand on projection mapping software. Which one you can start free with, which one lets you read the code, and what each costs once you pay.
Free plan Open source APIiPhoneLinux+4
Ghost Arcade combines mapping, show simulation, and live VJ controls in a free desktop app, with a companion iPhone and iPad app. Check the platform and download requirements first, especially if you need Linux or AI shader generation.
Visit Ghost Arcade Free plan Open source LinuxMacWindows
Choose MapMap if you want free projection mapping software with multiple surface shapes, media sources, and detailed layer controls. Check the download options before choosing it for macOS or Windows, and account for the lack of OSC support on macOS if external control matters.
Visit MapMapThe facts
| Ghost Arcade | MapMap | |
|---|---|---|
| Free plan | Yes | Yes |
| Open source | Yes | Yes |
| Runs on | API, iPhone, Linux, Mac, Self-hosted, Web, Windows | Linux, Mac, Windows |
| Lowest paid plan | Ghost Arcade iPhone/iPad: $1.99, paid once | Free or on request |
| Plans published | 4 | 2 |
| Maker | Not published | Not published |
| Website | ghostarcade.live | mapmapteam.github.io |
| On projection mapping software | #1 of 24 | #2 of 24 |
Ghost Arcade: what it does well
- Free desktop software with all features and no expiry
- Includes 180+ effects and real-time GPU shader instruments
- Offers projection and 3D stage simulators
- Supports MIDI, OSC, Ableton Link, and NDI
- iPhone and iPad app includes camera inputs and LiDAR scans
What to know first
- Version 2.0.16 desktop download requires an email address
- Linux is listed for the legacy build
- AI shader generation requires your own API key
- iPhone and iPad app costs $1.99, paid once
MapMap: what it does well
- Free, open-source software under GNU GPL v3.
- Maps media onto quads or meshes, triangles, and ellipses.
- Supports video, still images, GIFs, paints, masks, and Linux webcams.
- Layer controls include locking, isolation, duplication, and rearranging.
- OSC can control sources, opacity, visibility, and volume.
What to know first
- macOS and Windows installers are marked coming soon.
- OSC is unsupported on macOS.
- Webcam input is listed for Linux.
Alternatives to Ghost Arcade Alternatives to MapMap The whole list