Ghost Arcade vs Mapping Matter

Ghost Arcade is projection-mapping and VJ software for arranging visual layers, applying effects, mapping them onto surfaces, and performing live. Mapping tools include corner and mesh warping, slices, shape masks, soft-edge blending, and independently warped multi-display outputs. A 3D stage simulator and projection simulator support show planning and rehearsal. VJ mode offers two decks, an A/B crossfader with ten transition types, beat-quantised clip launching, macros, and snapshots. The software includes more than 180 effects, real-time GPU shader instruments, and ISF and GLSL shader support. Connections include MIDI, OSC, Ableton Link, Syphon/Spout output, and NDI video over a local network. AI shader generation accepts plain-English descriptions but requires the user’s own API key. The iPhone and iPad app supports clip launching, touch effects, projection mapping, camera inputs, and LiDAR point-cloud scans on supported devices. Desktop software is open source under AGPL-3.0, and the site permits paid gigs, installations, broadcasts, and subcontracted work. The desktop app costs nothing; version 2.0.16 requires an email to download, while Linux is listed for the legacy build.

Mapping Matter has no write-up on Specifiction yet; its figures are above.