Ghost Arcade vs Onlyview

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.

Onlyview is media server software for video mapping, playback, generative content and show control on Linux and Windows. It runs on the customer’s own machines rather than requiring a proprietary hardware box. Mapping tools cover photogrammetric preparation, 3D calibration, screen deformation and automated softedge blending. For LED canvases, it supports custom layouts, synchronized playback across machines, and main or backup output. The product describes frame-accurate synchronized playback of 8K content across multiple machines, with unlimited timelines and layers. Built-in integrations include Notch, Unreal and Unity, while tracking can use Blacktrax, LPM, Optitrack, Lidar and AI vision. Show-control functions schedule, monitor and run long-term installations. The homepage says one operator can run one timeline across more than 100 projectors. Licensing is offered per output, perpetually or by week, with pricing on request. HTTP, DMX, sACN, Art-Net and PJLink support extend automation, lighting and projector control.