Ghost Trick: Phantom Detective

Ghost Trick is a single-player puzzle adventure video game. Players control the character Sissel, an amnesiac ghost with supernatural powers, over the course of one night. The story is divided into 18 chapters, each titled after the time of night in which they take place. At the start of the game, only the first chapter is available to play; when players complete a chapter, the next one is unlocked. Gameplay is split into two sections: gathering information by navigating through the city, and saving lives by traveling back in time.

File:Knight Ghost Trick.gif

Players can press the "Ghost" button to swap between the real world and the Ghost World—an alternate dimension in which time does not pass. In the Ghost World, Sissel takes the form of a blue flame, and can travel between nearby objects. Every interactable object contains a glowing sphere of essence called a "core". Players can swipe from core to core to explore the environment.{{Cite web |last=Brown|first=Steve|date=2011-01-28 |title=Review for Ghost Trick: Phantom Detective|url=https://adventuregamers.com/articles/view/18439|access-date=2023-08-23 |website=Adventure Gamers|archive-date=2023-04-16 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230416135002/https://adventuregamers.com/articles/view/18439|url-status=live}} In the real world, Sissel cannot move around, and relies on his ability to possess and manipulate objects: by pressing the "Trick" button, players can perform "ghost tricks", creating paths of traversal or influencing characters in the environment. For example, moving a cart of doughnuts may prompt a character to chase after it, while also giving Sissel access to new areas.{{Cite web |last=Gudmundson|first=Carolyn|date=July 21, 2010 |title=Ghost Trick – hands-on|url=https://www.gamesradar.com/ghost-trick-hands-on/ |access-date=2023-08-13 |website=GamesRadar+|archive-date=2023-08-13 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230813185331/https://www.gamesradar.com/ghost-trick-hands-on/|url-status=live}}

Possessing a telephone in use allows Sissel to trace the source of the call, add the number to his Phone Book, and travel to the location on the other end of the line. Additionally, certain locations have internal telephone lines, giving players the option to explore multiple rooms within a single area.{{cite book|year=2010|editor-first=Yoshitaka|editor-last=Seino|title=ゴーストトリック オフィシャルコンプリートガイド |trans-title=Ghost Trick Official Complete Guide|page=47|language=Japanese|publisher=Capcom|isbn=978-4862332677}} As long as a functional telephone is nearby, players are free to return to any previously visited location. While moving from place to place, Sissel eavesdrops on characters' conversations and comments on his surroundings. As players interact with characters and discover locations, information about them is added to Sissel's record.{{sfn|Seino|2010|p=24}}

At multiple points in the story, players will arrive at the other end of a telephone line to discover the corpse of a character. By possessing the corpse, Sissel is able to communicate with the victim's spirit and travel back in time to four minutes before their death. During these "4 Minutes Before Death" segments, players are tasked with averting the victim's fate, using ghost tricks to manipulate the environment before time runs out. If players fail to rescue the victim, they can rewind time and return to the beginning of the sequence. If players manage to delay the fate of the victim, a checkpoint is created in the timeline. In later chapters of the game, players are able to control Missile, the ghost of a Pomeranian who befriends Sissel. 4 Minutes Before Death segments during these chapters increase in complexity, as Missile's spirit is able to reach further than Sissel's, and has the ability to swap the position of two objects that are of the same shape.{{Cite web |last=Concelmo|first=Chad|date=2011-03-08|title=Two dudes talk about how much they love Missile |url=https://www.destructoid.com/two-dudes-talk-about-how-much-they-love-missile/ |access-date=2023-08-13 |website=Destructoid|archive-date=2023-08-13 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230813185333/https://www.destructoid.com/two-dudes-talk-about-how-much-they-love-missile/|url-status=live}} Successfully averting a character's fate brings them back to life in the present. Rescued victims also develop permanent cores, allowing Sissel to talk directly with any character who has previously died. Conversations in the Ghost World resemble the investigation sections of Ace Attorney, providing players with a list of topics to choose from and lines of inquiry to follow.

{{See also |Characters in Ghost Trick: Phantom Detective}}

At {{Format time|19|02|hour_format=g}}, an amnesiac spirit named Sissel regains consciousness in a junkyard. Seeing the corpse of a man nearby, Sissel assumes he has just been killed. Ray, a spirit possessing a desk lamp, tells Sissel about the nature of spirits and "powers of the dead", including the power to travel back in time to four minutes before a person's death. Sissel uses these powers, called "ghost tricks", to save a young detective named Lynne from an assassination attempt. Sissel learns that Lynne came to the junkyard at his request, and decides that she is the only lead to uncovering his identity. Ray warns Sissel that his spirit will vanish at dawn.

Sissel and Lynne work together to save other victims as Sissel learns more about the past. Ten years prior, Detectives Jowd and Cabanela arrested Yomiel, a man falsely accused of foreign espionage. Yomiel fled into the nearby Temsik Park, taking a young Lynne hostage, but was killed by a fragment from the impact of a meteorite later named "Temsik". Jowd adopted Lynne into his family, including his wife Alma, daughter Kamila, and pet dog Missile. Five years later, Alma was inadvertently killed by a Rube Goldberg machine built by Kamila for a surprise party. Jowd hid the evidence and took responsibility for Alma's death to protect Kamila, going to prison under Cabanela's watch.

In the present, Sissel and Lynne discover that Sith, a foreign agent, was behind Lynne's assassination attempt. Sith claims to have kidnapped the justice minister's daughter as blackmail to hurry Jowd's execution, unaware that his subordinates mistakenly took Kamila instead. Sissel uses his powers to free Jowd from prison, though Cabanela soon recaptures him. Sissel proves the minister's daughter is safe at home, leading the minister to call off Jowd's execution. He tells Sissel and Lynne his fear that a spirit known as "the manipulator" is behind recent events, including Alma's death.

Cabanela is shot and killed while investigating Sissel's body. Missile, now a spirit with ghost tricks of his own, helps Sissel undo Cabanela's death. Sissel learns that his corpse was used by the manipulator to kill Cabanela and escape, and Cabanela reveals that the body actually belongs to the manipulator, Yomiel, whose corpse went missing shortly after his death. The body contained traces of radiation found in the Temsik meteorite, preventing it from decomposing.

Sissel, Missile, Lynne, and Jowd follow Yomiel aboard Sith's submarine, rescuing Kamila and cornering Yomiel. Sith betrays Yomiel, extracting the meteorite fragment from his body, and sinks the submarine after fleeing. Yomiel reveals that powers of the dead are granted to those who die in the presence of Temsik radiation. He had been working with Sith's organization to retrieve the Temsik fragment and eliminate all those who knew of its existence, including Jowd, Lynne, and Cabanela. Soon after his apparent death, Yomiel's fiancée—also named Sissel—committed suicide. Yomiel had come to work for Sith as a spirit, and was promised the means to lead a normal life once Sith had the fragment.

With no means of escape and dawn approaching, Sissel realizes that the group can travel to four minutes before Yomiel's death, as his corpse is no longer being preserved by Temsik radiation. Sissel, Jowd, Yomiel, and Missile all travel ten years into the past and prevent Yomiel's death, creating a new timeline. In the aftermath, Sissel discovers his true identity: a stray cat Yomiel adopted after his fiancée's suicide, having been killed when a stray bullet struck his cat carrier at the junkyard. Before returning to the present, Ray appears and tells Sissel the truth of his own identity: an aged Missile from an alternate timeline who failed to prevent Yomiel's death without Sissel's help and waited ten years to ensure his involvement, tricking him into believing he had only one night before disappearing.

In the new timeline, Sissel has been adopted by Jowd, Alma, and Kamila, while Yomiel serves out his prison sentence to rejoin his waiting fiancée. It is revealed that in this new timeline, Sissel was struck by the meteorite fragment instead, living as a spirit with the fragment in his body.

File:Ghost Trick event 4 - cropped.jpg

Ghost Trick was developed over the course of six years by a team of 20, headed by Ace Attorney director Shu Takumi.{{Cite web |first=Tsuchimoto|last=Manabu|date=2010-08-30 |title=『ゴーストトリック』開発後記onインサイド(第5回)・・・巧ディレクターそして竹下プロデューサーに聞く|language=ja|trans-title="Ghost Trick" Development Stories on Inside – Part 5: Interview with Director Takumi and Producer Takeshita|url=https://www.inside-games.jp/article/2010/08/30/43995.html|access-date=2023-09-27 |website=Inside|archive-date=2023-10-18 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231018105313/https://www.inside-games.jp/article/2010/08/30/43995.html|url-status=live}} Shortly after the Game Boy Advance release of Trials and Tribulations in 2004, Takumi stepped away from Ace Attorney to create a "new type of mystery" without the restrictions of the series' conventions. He drafted a rough storyline for the project—codenamed Mansion—centered around an ensemble cast of strangers.{{Cite web|date=2023-06-11 |title=『ゴースト トリック』とリアル脱出ゲームの共通点は「身体性をともなう謎解き」―珠玉のミステリーの魅力を今振り返る【巧 舟×加藤 隆生 対談】|language=ja|trans-title="Ghost Trick" and "Real Escape Game" are both about "solving mysteries with physicality." A look back at this charming gem of a mystery with Shu Takumi and Takao Kato|url=https://www.inside-games.jp/article/2023/06/11/146483.html|access-date=2023-10-20 |website=Inside|archive-date=2023-06-12 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230612095533/https://www.inside-games.jp/article/2023/06/11/146483.html|url-status=live}} His priorities were shifted back to Ace Attorney later that year, split between porting the series to the Nintendo DS (DS), writing a fifth episode for the Phoenix Wright: Ace Attorney DS port, and supervising development of Apollo Justice: Ace Attorney. In October 2007, following the release of the Trials and Tribulations DS port in Japan, the project became Takumi's sole focus. He rewrote his original draft, dividing the story into chapters to make it easier to understand, and full-scale development began.

Takumi's initial design document was written for a "different portable console" capable of 3D visuals at the suggestion of Capcom, but was adapted for 2D graphics when development shifted to the DS. The game was tentatively titled Ghost Spy during pre-production, and tasked players with observing the behavior of mysterious apartment tenants from the perspective of a disembodied spirit.{{Cite magazine|url=https://www.gameinformer.com/interview/2023/06/14/it-would-be-difficult-to-create-a-sequel-and-more-details-from-the-creator-of|title='It Would Be Difficult To Create A Sequel' And More Details From the Creator Of Ghost Trick: Phantom Detective|last=Hilliard|first=Kyle|magazine=Game Informer|date=June 14, 2023|access-date=July 5, 2023|archive-date=2023-07-05 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230705175055/https://www.gameinformer.com/interview/2023/06/14/it-would-be-difficult-to-create-a-sequel-and-more-details-from-the-creator-of|url-status=live}} The game's Ghost mechanic was inspired by ideas Takumi could not fully explore with Ace Attorney{{'}}s episodic format; namely, delving deeper into the personal lives of the game's cast. According to Takumi, forming meaningful connections with over 30 characters in a single night would prove "very hard{{nbsp}}... [for] a character who is alive", and that the "best way is to have a ghost."{{cite web|last=Yip|first=Spencer|url=http://www.siliconera.com/2010/08/16/ghost-trick-director-explains-why-he-made-the-lead-character-a-ghost/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100818065055/http://www.siliconera.com/2010/08/16/ghost-trick-director-explains-why-he-made-the-lead-character-a-ghost/|archive-date=2010-08-18|title=Ghost Trick Director Explains Why He Made The Lead Character A Ghost |website=Siliconera|date=2010-08-16 |accessdate=2023-07-10}} As development progressed, the spy narrative was scrapped in favor of an amnesiac murder victim in search of answers, placing further emphasis on communication and interaction rather than observation. The title was eventually changed to Ghost Trick as a pun on {{Nowrap|{{Nihongo|toritsuku|取り付く}}}}, meaning "to possess", and the Japanese pronunciation of the English word "trick", or {{Nowrap|{{Nihongo|torikku|トリック}}}}.

File:Cabanela dance.gif took a month to finalize, and was a favorite of the team's.{{Cite web |author=Marizo|date=2010-07-12 |title=【まり探】『ゴースト トリック』は裏『逆転裁判』だった？ 開発者インタビュー |language=ja|trans-title="Ghost Trick" is "Ace Attorney" in reverse? Developer interview|url=https://dengekionline.com/elem/000/000/279/279517/|access-date=2023-07-13 |website=Dengeki Online|archive-date=2023-07-13 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230713221803/https://dengekionline.com/elem/000/000/279/279517/|url-status=live}}]]

Ghost Trick{{'}}s unique art direction resulted from Takumi's desire to create something that "looked more like an illustration than a game." The team prioritized bold colors, hard shadows, and distinct silhouettes to help character portraits and backgrounds stand out on the small screens of the DS.{{Cite web |author=Asamirina |date=2023-06-13 |title=「ゴースト トリック」巧舟氏インタビュー |language=ja|trans-title="Ghost Trick" interview with Shu Takumi|url=https://game.watch.impress.co.jp/docs/interview/1507145.html |access-date=2023-07-08 |website=Game Watch|archive-date=2023-10-06 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231006202008/https://game.watch.impress.co.jp/docs/interview/1507145.html|url-status=live}} Characters were also modeled in 3D to populate environments, paired with dynamic animations to evoke the drama of a stage play. Exaggerated poses, deliberate choreography, and fluid motion were used to express the characters' individuality through movement, and to {{Nowrap|"[lend]}} an action element" that was not possible with the Ace Attorney series.{{sfn|Seino|2010|p=117}} Takumi insisted that characters be animated by hand, as he felt the use of motion capture would detract from their nuance and appeal. The team's first test sample—a short loop of Missile running around while Kamila snacked on a doughnut—convinced him that the process would be worth the effort.{{Cite magazine|date=February 2010 |title=Ghost Trick|magazine=NGamer |publisher=Future |issue=46 |page=26}}

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| quote = Nintendo DS screens are not the largest{{nbsp}}... [so] it became important to make sure that whatever death we were presenting to the player was visually easy to comprehend. So being crushed to death by some giant object was a perfect fit for our requirements, whether it was under a big rock or a huge roast chicken.{{nbsp}}... That's probably the influence of Tom and Jerry on the young Shu Takumi showing through.

| author = Shu Takumi, director{{Cite web|last=Castle|first=Matthew|date=2013-10-24|title=Interview: Shu Takumi on the making of Phoenix Wright, Ghost Trick and more |url=http://www.officialnintendomagazine.co.uk/55629/features/interview-shu-takumi-on-the-making-of-phoenix-wright-ghost-trick-and-more/|website=Official Nintendo Magazine|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141008000051/http://www.officialnintendomagazine.co.uk/55629/features/interview-shu-takumi-on-the-making-of-phoenix-wright-ghost-trick-and-more/|archive-date=2014-10-08|access-date=2023-10-23}}

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Due to technical limitations, however, the team had trouble rendering the 3D character models properly on the DS hardware. At the suggestion of Toshihiko Honda—the game's lead programmer—pre-rendering techniques popularized by video games like Donkey Kong Country were used to rasterize the models into 2D sprites, preserving the quality of the animation while greatly reducing system load. The game's spotlight animation was also the result of hardware constraints. Takumi found that shifting from 3D development on Resident Evil and Dino Crisis to 2D development on Ace Attorney and Ghost Trick significantly limited the practicality of using in-game cameras to direct players' attention. This restriction, paired with Ghost Trick{{'}}s theatrical design language, led to the creation of what Takumi called the "mysterious light" effect, placing emphasis on whichever character or object was pertinent to a given scene.

The original Ace Attorney trilogy was developed for Japanese audiences, and proved notoriously difficult for Capcom to localize for the West.{{cite web |last=Mackey|first=Bob|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150629201733/http://www.usgamer.net/articles/expert-witness-an-interview-with-alex-smith-the-writer-behind-ace-attorneys-english-debut|title=Expert Witness: An Interview with Alex Smith, the Writer Behind Ace Attorney's English Debut|date=June 23, 2015 |website=USgamer |access-date=2023-10-03 |url=http://www.usgamer.net/articles/expert-witness-an-interview-with-alex-smith-the-writer-behind-ace-attorneys-english-debut|archive-date=2015-06-29}} According to Janet Hsu, the game's English editor, the team "knew [Ghost Trick] was going to be localized and{{nbsp}}... took that into consideration" during development. Artists completely avoided using written language on buildings, objects, clothing, and other in-game assets. Character and location designs were also kept as culturally and chronologically ambiguous as possible.{{Cite web |last=Perlee |first=Ben |date=2010-06-21 |title=Destructoid interview: Ghost Trick's Shu Takumi |url=https://www.destructoid.com/destructoid-interview-ghost-tricks-shu-takumi/ |access-date=2023-07-07 |website=Destructoid|archive-date=2023-09-28 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230928170922/https://www.destructoid.com/destructoid-interview-ghost-tricks-shu-takumi/|url-status=live}} Apart from easing the localization process, this also gave what Takumi called a "fairytale-like" quality to the game's world.{{sfn|Seino|2010|p=120}} However, much like Ace Attorney, certain characters' names are Japanese puns, specifically relating to concepts of life and death: Lynne's name is derived from {{Nowrap|{{Nihongo|rinne|輪廻}}}},{{efn|Japanese word for the Buddhist concept of saṃsāra, or "reincarnation"}} Jeego's from {{Nowrap|{{Nihongo|jigoku|地獄}}}},{{efn|Japanese word for "hell"}} and Cabanela's from {{Nowrap|{{Nihongo|shikabane|しかばね}}}},{{efn|Japanese word for "corpse"; shikabane → Kabanera}} for example.

Lynne and Kamila's living room was the first location created after development began, and served as a prototype for balancing difficulty and establishing the rules of the game's puzzles. Producer Hironobu Takeshita was often asked to playtest the game for the team, due to his relative unfamiliarity with puzzle games. To accommodate for a variety of skill levels, a passive hint system was implemented. Those who felt stumped had the option to read additional dialogue in the form of interactable thought bubbles, while experienced players could choose to ignore them. To aid in puzzle construction, the development team would reference a "foreign book" speculated to be Baby Einstein's Wordsworth's Book of Words. According to an interview with Joystiq, the book contained images of everyday objects paired with names and descriptions, and "whatever caught [Takumi's] eye" would become part of a puzzle.{{Cite web |last=Kietzmann |first=Ludwig |date=2010-07-02 |title=Interview: Ghost Trick and Ace Attorney director Shu Takumi|url=http://www.joystiq.com/2010/07/02/interview-ghost-trick-and-ace-attorney-director-shu-takumi/|archive-date=2010-08-20|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100820001945/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/07/02/interview-ghost-trick-and-ace-attorney-director-shu-takumi/ |access-date=2023-10-02 |website=Joystiq}}

According to an interview with Gamasutra, the game's sound effects were written directly into the script. Takumi would leave notes at key story beats—detailing when and where to use sound effects—for programmers to reference at later stages in development.{{Cite web |last=Sheffield|first=Brandon|author-link=Brandon Sheffield|date=2010-08-23 |title=Q&A: Ghost Trick's Shu Takumi On Crafting Mysteries And Strong Characters|url=http://www.gamasutra.com/view/news/29794/QA_Ghost_Tricks_Shu_Takumi_On_Crafting_Mysteries_And_Strong_Characters.php|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100826233130/http://www.gamasutra.com:80/view/news/29794/QA_Ghost_Tricks_Shu_Takumi_On_Crafting_Mysteries_And_Strong_Characters.php|archive-date=2010-08-26 |access-date=2023-09-21 |website=Gamasutra}} Yasumasa Kitagawa, who would go on to rearrange the soundtrack for the 2023 Ghost Trick remaster, assisted Takumi but ultimately went uncredited.

The game's soundtrack was written by Phoenix Wright: Ace Attorney composer Masakazu Sugimori. Takumi personally requested that Sugimori return, praising his "ability to create an original world" through music.{{Cite web |author2=Tairiku Shin Chitsujo|author1=ONO|date=2010-05-13 |title=「ロスト プラネット 2」「ゴースト トリック」「Last Ranker」と，発売を間近に控えたタイトルを，新要素を含めて一挙に紹介。カプコンのメディア向け合同プレゼンテーションの模様をお届け|language=ja|trans-title=New info about "Lost Planet 2," "Ghost Trick," and "Last Ranker" revealed at Capcom's joint media presentation|url=https://www.4gamer.net/games/094/G009409/20100513007/|access-date=2023-07-17|website=4Gamer.net|archive-date=2023-07-17 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230717194627/https://www.4gamer.net/games/094/G009409/20100513007/|url-status=live}} Due to Takumi's hiatus from the project in late 2004, Sugimori was able to compose much of the game's score before development officially started. When full-scale production began in October 2007, he had already left Capcom to found Design Wave—a Tokyo-based music studio—but resumed work on the game as a contractor. Sugimori lists jazz and fusion as inspirations for the soundtrack, and wrote the game's title theme after seeing concept artwork of the Zone D Waste Center location. He was also heavily influenced by an untitled oil painting he owned of a black and blue night sky.{{Cite web |last=Tieryas |first=Peter |date=November 30, 2019 |title=Ghost Trick Has One Of The Catchiest OSTs On The DS |url=https://kotaku.com/ghost-trick-has-one-of-the-catchiest-osts-on-the-3ds-1840003393 |access-date=October 8, 2020 |website=Kotaku|archive-date=2023-05-04 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230504200307/https://kotaku.com/ghost-trick-has-one-of-the-catchiest-osts-on-the-3ds-1840003393|url-status=live}}

Ghost Trick Original Sound Track, a CD set of the game's soundtrack, was released under the Suleputer label on June 19, 2010 in a limited edition bundle via {{Nowrap|e-Capcom}}.{{Cite web |author=Chun|date=2010-04-15 |title=「ゴースト トリック」のPC公式サイトがリニューアルで，巧 舟氏のコラムが登場。オリジナルサントラ付き限定版がイーカプコンで発売に|language=ja|trans-title=The official "Ghost Trick" website has been updated, including a column by Shu Takumi. Limited edition bundle with original soundtrack also available on e-Capcom|url=https://www.4gamer.net/games/097/G009759/20100415070/ |access-date=2023-08-04|website=4Gamer.net|archive-date=2023-08-10 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230810135010/https://www.4gamer.net/games/097/G009759/20100415070/|url-status=live}} It was later distributed digitally through iTunes to celebrate the game's third anniversary on June 19, 2013.{{Cite web|date=2013-06-19|title=「ゴースト トリック」3周年を記念して，iOS版の各章が期間限定で値下げに|language=ja|trans-title=In celebration of the third anniversary of "Ghost Trick," the iOS version is on sale for a limited time|url=https://www.4gamer.net/games/125/G012591/20130619069/|access-date=2023-08-24|website=4Gamer.net|archive-date=2014-02-19|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140219091026/https://www.4gamer.net/games/125/G012591/20130619069/|url-status=live}} In August 2015, Capcom released an artbook bundle, including a compilation album of the game's most popular tracks and an original song written and composed by Takumi titled {{Nihongo|"I Am Missile"|ボクはミサイル|Boku wa Misairu}}.{{Cite magazine|date=2015-08-07 |title=『流星のロックマン』や『ゴースト トリック』など4タイトル――"Capcom Special Selection"第3弾の画集表紙画像やミニサントラCD収録曲が公開！|language=ja|trans-title=CD designs, tracklists, and artbook covers for "Capcom Special Selection" Vol. 3 revealed! 4 editions will be released, including "Mega Man Star Force" and "Ghost Trick"|url=https://www.famitsu.com/news/201508/07085397.html|access-date=2023-09-27|magazine=Famitsu|archive-date=2023-10-18 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231018105053/https://www.famitsu.com/news/201508/07085397.html|url-status=live}}

File:Ghost Trick TGS 2009 Booth 2.jpg

Ghost Trick was first revealed in Weekly Famitsu during an interview with Takumi in early September 2009.{{cite magazine|date=2009-09-17|title=今週のスクープ ◆ ゴーストトリック|trans-title=This week's scoop: Ghost Trick|lang=ja|magazine=Weekly Famitsu|publisher=Enterbrain|volume=1083|pages=19–23}} The game was formally announced at TGS 2009 later that month, featuring a demonstration booth themed after the Zone D Waste Center location.{{Cite web |last=Ogura|first=Masaya|title=［TGS 2009］弁護士の次は……死者が主人公!? 巧舟氏の贈る新作ミステリー「ゴースト トリック」の試遊レポート|language=ja|trans-title=TGS 2009: After lawyers... dead people are the protagonists!? Report on "Ghost Trick," a new mystery by Shu Takumi|url=https://www.4gamer.net/games/097/G009759/20090925002/ |date=2009-09-25 |access-date=2023-07-17 |website=4Gamer.net|archive-date=2023-07-17 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230717154936/https://www.4gamer.net/games/097/G009759/20090925002/|url-status=live}} On February 12, 2010, Capcom filed a North American trademark for the game, leading several publications to suspect an overseas release date was imminent.{{Cite magazine |last=Vore|first=Bryan|date=2010-02-17 |title=Capcom Sneakily Trademarks Okamiden, Ghost Trick In North America|url=https://www.gameinformer.com/b/news/archive/2010/02/17/news-capcom-sneakily-trademarks-okamiden-ghost-trick-in-north-america.aspx|access-date=2023-07-16 |magazine=Game Informer|archive-date=2023-07-17 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230717023738/https://www.gameinformer.com/b/news/archive/2010/02/17/news-capcom-sneakily-trademarks-okamiden-ghost-trick-in-north-america.aspx|url-status=live}}{{Cite web |last=Fletcher|first=JC|date=2010-02-17 |title=Trademark paints a picture of American Okamiden release|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150130113718/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/17/trademark-paints-a-picture-of-american-okamiden-release/|archive-date=2015-01-30|url=http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/17/trademark-paints-a-picture-of-american-okamiden-release/|access-date=2023-10-02 |website=Joystiq}} On March 11, 2010, Capcom announced that the game would launch in Japan on June 24, 2010.{{Cite magazine|date=2010-03-11 |title=『ゴースト トリック』発売日と価格が決定！ 体験版の公開も|trans-title="Ghost Trick" pricing and release date revealed! Demo version also released|url=https://www.famitsu.com/game/news/1232867_1124.html|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100416114903/https://www.famitsu.com/game/news/1232867_1124.html|archive-date=2010-04-16|access-date=2023-09-22 |magazine=Famitsu}} The game made its first appearance in North America at Capcom's Captivate summit in April 2010, with an international release window of winter 2010.{{Cite magazine |last=Narcisse|first=Evan|date=2010-04-20 |title=Captivate 2010: Capcom Puts Newly Deceased Humans and Celestial Wolf Cub on the DS|url=https://techland.time.com/2010/04/20/captivate-2010-capcom-puts-newly-deceased-humans-and-celestial-wolf-cub-on-the-ds/|access-date=2023-09-21 |magazine=Time|archive-date=2023-10-18 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231018105053/https://techland.time.com/2010/04/20/captivate-2010-capcom-puts-newly-deceased-humans-and-celestial-wolf-cub-on-the-ds/|url-status=live}} This was followed by showcases at Nippon TV,{{Cite web |date=2010-04-22|title=カプコン，「あそぼう！日テレ黄金週間」に無料体験コーナー設置|language=ja|trans-title=Capcom to set up game demo booth at "Let's Play! Nippon TV Golden Week"|url=https://www.4gamer.net/games/094/G009450/20100422024/ |access-date=2023-07-17 |website=4Gamer.net|archive-date=2023-08-20 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230820181346/https://www.4gamer.net/games/094/G009450/20100422024/|url-status=live}} E3,{{Cite web |last=Chan|first=Trevor|date=2010-06-16 |title=E3 2010: More Clues to the Inner-Workings of Ghost Trick Phantom Detective |url=https://www.nintendolife.com/news/2010/06/e3_2010_more_clues_to_the_inner_workings_of_ghost_trick_phantom_detective |access-date=2023-07-11 |website=Nintendo Life|archive-date=2023-07-11 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230711155219/https://www.nintendolife.com/news/2010/06/e3_2010_more_clues_to_the_inner_workings_of_ghost_trick_phantom_detective|url-status=live}} San Diego Comic-Con,{{Cite web |last=Ciolek|first=Todd|date=2010-07-24|title=The X Button at Comic-Con: Friday, July 23|url=https://www.animenewsnetwork.com/convention/2010/the-x-button-at-comic-con/friday-july-23|access-date=2023-09-22 |website=Anime News Network|archive-date=2023-10-18 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231018104845/https://www.animenewsnetwork.com/convention/2010/the-x-button-at-comic-con/friday-july-23|url-status=live}} Gamescom,{{cite web |last=Totilo|first=Steven|title=Okamiden And Ghost Trick, In Action Again|url=https://kotaku.com/okamiden-and-ghost-trick-in-action-again-5617198|website=Kotaku|date=2010-08-19|access-date=2023-07-17|archive-date=2023-07-20 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230720143144/https://kotaku.com/okamiden-and-ghost-trick-in-action-again-5617198|url-status=live}} TGS,{{Cite web |last=Holmes|first=Jonathan|date=2010-09-18 |title=TGS: Hands-on with the spooktacular Ghost Trick |url=https://www.destructoid.com/tgs-hands-on-with-the-spooktacular-ghost-trick/|website=Destructoid|access-date=2023-09-29|archive-date=2023-10-18 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231018104845/https://www.destructoid.com/tgs-hands-on-with-the-spooktacular-ghost-trick/|url-status=live}} New York Comic Con,{{Cite magazine |last=Helgeson|first=Matt|date=2010-10-08 |title=Capcom Shows Off New Ghost Trick Screens And Trailer|url=https://www.gameinformer.com/b/news/archive/2010/10/08/capcom-shows-off-new-ghost-trick-screens-and-trailer.aspx|access-date=2023-07-16 |magazine=Game Informer|archive-date=2023-07-16 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230716235419/https://www.gameinformer.com/b/news/archive/2010/10/08/capcom-shows-off-new-ghost-trick-screens-and-trailer.aspx|url-status=live}} and CES.{{Cite web|last=Crecente|first=Brian|date=2011-01-05 |title=Capcom To Delight At The Consumer Electronics Show|url=https://multi.kotaku.com.au/2011/01/capcom-to-delight-at-the-consumer-electronics-show/|website=Kotaku|archive-date=2023-10-21 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231021223648/https://multi.kotaku.com.au/2011/01/capcom-to-delight-at-the-consumer-electronics-show/|url-status=dead}}

In May 2010, Takumi created a Twitter account under the name "Ghost Tweet" to share exclusive development information and answer questions from fans.{{Cite web|date=2010-05-12 |title=「ゴースト トリック」逆転裁判の生みの親，巧舟氏がつぶやき開始|language=ja|trans-title=Shu Takumi, creator of "Ghost Trick" and "Ace Attorney," starts tweeting|url=https://www.4gamer.net/games/097/G009759/20100512047/|access-date=2023-07-17 |website=4Gamer.net|archive-date=2023-07-17 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230717192636/https://www.4gamer.net/games/097/G009759/20100512047/|url-status=live}} In June 2010, Capcom promoted the game on Ghost TV, a short YouTube docuseries in which Takumi and the production team would demonstrate gameplay and provide insight into their development process. Later that month, Capcom uploaded gameplay commentary videos featuring Japanese celebrities, including members of AKB48 and Yokohama F. Marinos, to the Ghost Trick website. Two tutorial demos with altered dialogue and puzzles were also made available; one via the Nintendo Channel{{Cite web |last=Newton|first=James|date=2010-12-16 |title=Get Your Hands On a Ghost Trick DS Demo Right Now|url=https://www.nintendolife.com/news/2010/12/get_your_hands_on_a_ghost_trick_ds_demo_right_now|access-date=2023-10-02 |website=Nintendo Life|archive-date=2023-10-18 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231018105518/https://www.nintendolife.com/news/2010/12/get_your_hands_on_a_ghost_trick_ds_demo_right_now|url-status=live}} and the other via Flash.{{Cite web|last=Tong|first=Sophia|date=2010-11-30|title=Ghost Trick: Phantom Detective Playable Flash Demo|url=https://www.gamespot.com/articles/ghost-trick-phantom-detective-playable-flash-demo/1100-6284628/|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141028063347/https://www.gamespot.com/articles/ghost-trick-phantom-detective-playable-flash-demo/1100-6284628/|archive-date=2014-10-28|access-date=2023-07-15|website=GameSpot|url-status=live}}

File:Takumi Takeshita Ghost Trick Release.png

Ghost Trick was originally scheduled to launch in Japan on June 24, 2010. However, to coincide with new colors and price drops coming to the DS family of systems, a last-minute announcement was made during the team's wrap party, moving the release date up to June 19.{{Cite web |author=Nobu|date=2010-06-02 |title=NDS「ゴースト トリック」発売日は6月19日に早まる！ 完成披露パーティでサプライズ発表 |language=ja|trans-title="Ghost Trick" will be released on June 19! Surprise announcement at the wrap party|url=https://www.4gamer.net/games/097/G009759/20100602054/ |access-date=2023-07-16 |website=4Gamer.net|archive-date=2023-07-17 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230717022804/https://www.4gamer.net/games/097/G009759/20100602054/|url-status=live}} A limited edition bundle was distributed in Japan via {{Nowrap|e-Capcom}}, including Ghost Trick Original Sound Track and a full-color art booklet with exclusive developer commentary from Takumi, Takeshita, and Sugimori. In July 2010, the game was featured in a five-page cover story for Weekly Famitsu.{{cite magazine|date=2010-07-15|title=いますぐ買える! ◆ ゲーム情報ゴーストトリック|trans-title=Available now! Ghost Trick game info|lang=ja|magazine=Weekly Famitsu|publisher=Enterbrain|volume=1126|pages=128–132}}

In November 2010, Capcom held a Ghost Trick t-shirt design contest,{{Cite web |author=JayCBaby|date=2010-11-02 |title=Kicking off the Ghost Trick wraparound T-shirt contest! |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110318172025/http://www.capcom-unity.com/jaycbaby/blog/2010/11/02/kicking_off_the_ghost_trick_wraparound_t-shirt_contest!|archive-date=2011-03-18|url=http://www.capcom-unity.com/jaycbaby/blog/2010/11/02/kicking_off_the_ghost_trick_wraparound_t-shirt_contest!|access-date=2023-08-24 |website=Capcom-Unity}} followed by a community webcomic contest in December.{{Cite web|author=jgonzo|date=2010-12-01|title=Ghost Trick: Create Your Own Webcomic Contest |archive-date=2010-12-04|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20101204114845/https://www.capcom-unity.com/jgonzo/blog/2010/12/01/ghost_trick:_create_your_own_webcomic_contest |url=https://www.capcom-unity.com/jgonzo/blog/2010/12/01/ghost_trick:_create_your_own_webcomic_contest|access-date=2023-09-21 |website=Capcom-Unity}} To promote the webcomic contest, Capcom commissioned popular artists to publish special Ghost Trick issues of their comics, including Ctrl+Alt+Del,{{Cite web |author=jgonzo|date=December 1, 2010 |title=Special Ghost Trick Webcomic: Ctrl+Alt+Del |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230928195129/http://www.capcom-unity.com/jgonzo/blog/2010/12/01/special-ghost-trick-webcomic-ctrlaltdel|url=http://www.capcom-unity.com/jgonzo/blog/2010/12/01/special-ghost-trick-webcomic-ctrlaltdel|archive-date=2023-09-28|access-date=2023-09-29 |website=Capcom-Unity}} PvP,{{Cite web |author=jgonzo|date=December 8, 2010 |title=Special Ghost Trick Webcomic: PvP |url=http://www.capcom-unity.com/jgonzo/blog/2010/12/08/special_ghost_trick_webcomic:_pvp|archive-date=2010-12-11|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20101211122234/http://www.capcom-unity.com/jgonzo/blog/2010/12/08/special_ghost_trick_webcomic:_pvp|access-date=2023-08-23 |website=Capcom-Unity}} Penny Arcade,{{Cite web |author=JayCBaby|date=December 15, 2010 |title=Ghost Trick Web Comic Series: Penny Arcade |archive-date=2010-12-19|url=http://www.capcom-unity.com/jaycbaby/blog/2010/12/15/ghost_trick_web_comic_series:_penny_arcade|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20101219205445/http://www.capcom-unity.com/jaycbaby/blog/2010/12/15/ghost_trick_web_comic_series:_penny_arcade|access-date=2023-09-21 |website=Capcom-Unity}} and The Adventures of Dr. McNinja.{{Cite web |last=Cullen|first=Johnny|date=2011-01-04 |title=Ghost Trick gets Dr. McNinja comic crossover treatment|url=https://www.vg247.com/ghost-trick-gets-dr-mcninja-comic-crossover-treatment|access-date=2023-09-21 |website=VG247|archive-date=2023-10-18 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231018104845/https://www.vg247.com/ghost-trick-gets-dr-mcninja-comic-crossover-treatment|url-status=live}}

Ghost Trick released internationally in North America,{{Cite web |last=Yeung|first=Karlie|date=2010-10-28 |title=Ghost Trick Release Date Announced for January|url=http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/news/24364/ghost-trick-release-date-announced-for-january |access-date=2023-08-22 |website=Nintendo World Report|archive-date=2023-08-31 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230831092433/http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/news/24364/ghost-trick-release-date-announced-for-january|url-status=live}} Europe,{{Cite web |last=Dutton|first=Fred|date=2010-10-28 |title=Ghost Trick release date confirmed|url=https://www.eurogamer.net/ghost-trick-release-date-confirmed |access-date=2023-08-22 |website=Eurogamer|archive-date=2023-08-22 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230822125337/https://www.eurogamer.net/ghost-trick-release-date-confirmed|url-status=live}} and Australia{{Cite web |last=Kozanecki|first=James|date=2011-01-18 |title=AU Shippin' Out January 17-21: Little Big Planet 2|url=https://www.gamespot.com/articles/au-shippin-out-january-17-21-little-big-planet-2/1100-6286420/|access-date=2023-09-22 |website=GameSpot|archive-date=2023-10-18 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231018105434/https://www.gamespot.com/articles/au-shippin-out-january-17-21-little-big-planet-2/1100-6286420/|url-status=live}} the following year in January 2011, with Nintendo providing European marketing and distribution on behalf of Capcom.{{Cite web |last=Fletcher|first=JC|date=2010-11-02 |title=Ghost Trick haunts Europe Jan. 14, Capcom and Nintendo partnering to publish|archive-date=2010-11-03|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20101103234922/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/11/02/ghost-trick-haunts-europe-jan-14-capcom-and-nintendo-partnerin/|url=http://www.joystiq.com/2010/11/02/ghost-trick-haunts-europe-jan-14-capcom-and-nintendo-partnerin/|access-date=2023-10-02|website=Joystiq}} A bundle titled "Ghost Trick: Phantom Detective New Classics" was also made available, and included a copy of the then out-of-print Phoenix Wright: Ace Attorney DS port.{{Cite web |last=Yeung|first=Karlie|date=2010-11-05 |title=Ghost Trick and Phoenix Wright Bundle Available for Pre-order|url=https://www.nintendoworldreport.com/news/24407/ghost-trick-and-phoenix-wright-bundle-available-for-pre-order|access-date=2023-09-22 |website=Nintendo World Report|archive-date=2023-10-18 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231018105225/https://www.nintendoworldreport.com/news/24407/ghost-trick-and-phoenix-wright-bundle-available-for-pre-order|url-status=live}}

An enhanced iOS port of the game was released in Japan on December 16, 2010,{{Cite web |author=Gueed|date=2010-12-16 |title=iPhone/iPod touch版「ゴースト トリック」が本日配信スタート！ 1，2章の価格は無料＆3章から最終章までを特別価格で期間限定販売|language=ja|trans-title="Ghost Trick" for iPhone/iPod touch available today! Chapters 1 and 2 are free; the rest are on sale for a limited time!|url=https://www.4gamer.net/games/125/G012591/20101216015/ |access-date=2023-08-22 |website=4Gamer.net|archive-date=2023-08-22 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230822125335/https://www.4gamer.net/games/125/G012591/20101216015/|url-status=live}} and internationally on February 2, 2012.{{Cite web |last=Hamilton |first=Kirk|date=February 2, 2012 |title=Ghost Trick Comes to iOS, First Two Chapters Are Free |url=https://kotaku.com/ghost-trick-comes-to-ios-first-two-chapters-are-free-5881685 |access-date=April 2, 2022 |website=Kotaku|archive-date=April 2, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220402160752/https://kotaku.com/ghost-trick-comes-to-ios-first-two-chapters-are-free-5881685 |url-status=live }} Development started after localization of the international DS version was finished, and took just under three months to complete.{{Cite web |last=Inamoto |first=Tetsuya |date=2010-12-28 |title=DS版「ゴースト トリック」の開発スタッフが直接移植。発売後半年でiPhone/iPod touch版リリースに至った経緯を，プロデューサーの竹下博信氏に聞いてきた |language=ja|trans-title="Ghost Trick" ported to iPhone/iPod touch by original team. Hironobu Takeshita talks about what happened during the six months between the DS release and the mobile port|url=https://www.4gamer.net/games/125/G012591/20101224070/ |access-date=2023-07-11 |website=4Gamer.net|archive-date=2023-02-02|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230202225512/https://www.4gamer.net/games/125/G012591/20101224070/|url-status=live}} The port began as an experiment, as the DS team had no experience developing for iOS. Instead of sending the source code to Capcom's mobile gaming division, Takeshita was impressed with the team's progress, and urged for development to continue in-house. Capcom initially planned for the game to launch episodically, with each chapter releasing one after another. However, according to Takeshita, "many fans finished the original in one go, and [the team] didn't want to make anyone wait." The first two chapters were distributed for free, with the remaining chapters costing extra.

The mobile version includes "Ghost Puzzle", a sliding puzzle minigame rewarding players with downloadable wallpapers, and a Japan-exclusive feature called {{Nihongo|"Missile Omikuji"|みさいるおみくじ|Misairu Omikuji}}, in which Missile would draw an omikuji fortune for players once a day.{{Cite web |author=Tairiku Shin Chitsujo|date=2011-01-23 |title=ひょっとすると「憑依ドン！」になっていた？「ゴースト トリック」のブロガーイベントで，開発秘話やiPhone/iPod touch版のアップデート情報が明らかに |language=ja|trans-title="Ghost Trick" was almost called "Hyōi Don!"? Development secrets and iPhone/iPod touch version info revealed at blogger event|url=https://www.4gamer.net/games/125/G012591/20110123002/|access-date=2023-07-11 |website=4Gamer.net|archive-date=2023-07-11|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230711174355/https://www.4gamer.net/games/125/G012591/20110123002/|url-status=live}} The game launched at #1 on the App Store in Japan, and held the position throughout its release week.{{Cite web|date=2010-12-24 |title=「ゴースト トリック」，直筆サイン入り特製カードが抽選で当たる|language=ja|trans-title=Win a special "Ghost Trick" card signed by Shu Takumi|url=https://www.4gamer.net/games/125/G012591/20101224085/|access-date=2023-07-19 |website=4Gamer.net|archive-date=2023-08-23|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230823053058/https://www.4gamer.net/games/125/G012591/20101224085/|url-status=live}}

On September 15, 2011, Sony Ericsson revealed that an Android port of the game was scheduled to release for the Xperia Play,{{Cite web |last=Ishida|first=Katsuo|date=2011-09-15 |title=ソニー・エリクソン、「Xperia Play」発表会開催|language=ja|trans-title=Sony Ericsson holds "Xperia Play" presentation|url=https://game.watch.impress.co.jp/docs/news/477808.html |access-date=2023-10-22 |website=Game Watch|archive-date=2017-08-08 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170808024850/https://game.watch.impress.co.jp/docs/news/477808.html|url-status=live}} followed by a formal announcement from Capcom.{{Cite web |date=2011-09-15 |title=「デビルメイクライ4 リフレイン」「ゴーストトリック」が今秋Ｇゲーに登場|language=ja|trans-title="Devil May Cry 4 Refrain" and "Ghost Trick" coming to G-Game this fall|url=https://www.4gamer.net/games/135/G013543/20110915028/|access-date=2023-10-21 |website=4Gamer.net|archive-date=2013-05-21|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130521215514/https://www.4gamer.net/games/135/G013543/20110915028/|url-status=live}} It launched exclusively in Japan via the :ja:GMOゲームポット#GMOゲームセンター app store on November 1, 2012.{{Cite web |date=2012-11-01 |title=「デビル メイ クライ 4 リフレイン」「ゴースト トリック」，本日からGゲーで配信|language=ja|trans-title="Devil May Cry 4 Refrain" and "Ghost Trick" available on G-Game today|url=https://www.4gamer.net/games/191/G019111/20121101048/|access-date=2023-07-11 |website=4Gamer.net|archive-date=2023-07-12|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230712001349/https://www.4gamer.net/games/191/G019111/20121101048/|url-status=live}} The platform has since gone defunct following a merger in December 2017.{{Cite web |last=Ressler|first=Karen|date=2017-10-27 |title=Japanese Online Game Publisher Gamepot Goes Defunct|url=https://www.animenewsnetwork.com/news/2017-10-27/japanese-online-game-publisher-gamepot-goes-defunct/.123197 |website=Anime News Network|access-date=2023-08-26|archive-date=2023-08-26|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230826184140/https://www.animenewsnetwork.com/news/2017-10-27/japanese-online-game-publisher-gamepot-goes-defunct/.123197|url-status=live}}

In December 2023, Capcom announced that the original iOS port of the game would be delisted from the App Store in spring 2024, along with plans to release the 2023 remaster on iOS and Android devices.{{Cite web |last=Phillips|first=Kara|date=2023-12-20 |title=The iOS version of Ghost Trick: Phantom Detective will be delisted next year|url=https://www.techradar.com/gaming/the-ios-version-of-ghost-trick-phantom-detective-will-be-delisted-next-year|website=TechRadar|access-date=2024-01-01|archive-date=2023-12-21|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231221020724/https://www.techradar.com/gaming/the-ios-version-of-ghost-trick-phantom-detective-will-be-delisted-next-year|url-status=live}}{{Cite web|title=Ghost Trick End of Service FAQ|url=https://www.capcom-games.com/product/en-us/ghosttrick-phantomdetective/?t=systemfaq|website=Capcom|access-date=2024-01-11|archive-date=2023-12-27|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231227035934/https://www.capcom-games.com/product/en-us/ghosttrick-phantomdetective/?t=systemfaq|url-status=live}} The mobile version launched worldwide on March 27, 2024.{{Cite web|first=Mikhail|last=Madnani|title='Ghost Trick: Phantom Detective' Remaster Now Available on iOS and Android Worldwide From Capcom|date=2024-03-27|url=https://toucharcade.com/2024/03/27/ghost-trick-phantom-detective-remaster-mobile-download-now-available-android-iphone-ipad-free-ios-capcom/|website=TouchArcade|access-date=2024-03-28|archive-date=2024-03-28|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240328130844/https://toucharcade.com/2024/03/27/ghost-trick-phantom-detective-remaster-mobile-download-now-available-android-iphone-ipad-free-ios-capcom/|url-status=live}}

A re-release of Ghost Trick was rated in South Korea on September 2, 2022.{{Cite web |last=Romano |first=Sal |date=2022-11-03 |title=Syphon Filter 3 for PS5 and PS4, Ghost Trick rated in Korea |url=https://www.gematsu.com/2022/11/syphon-filter-3-for-ps5-and-ps4-ghost-trick-rated-in-korea |access-date=2023-06-13 |website=Gematsu|archive-date=2023-08-05|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230805183725/https://www.gematsu.com/2022/11/syphon-filter-3-for-ps5-and-ps4-ghost-trick-rated-in-korea|url-status=live}} The game was officially revealed to be a full HD remaster the following February in a Nintendo Direct,{{Cite web |last=Hagues|first=Alana|date=2023-02-08 |title=Ghost Trick: Phantom Detective Gets Resurrected On Switch This Summer|url=https://www.nintendolife.com/news/2023/02/ghost-trick-phantom-detective-gets-resurrected-on-switch-this-summer|website=Nintendo Life|access-date=2023-08-05|archive-date=2023-07-12|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230712034010/https://www.nintendolife.com/news/2023/02/ghost-trick-phantom-detective-gets-resurrected-on-switch-this-summer|url-status=live}} and a demo of the first two chapters was made available on June 12, 2023.{{Cite web |last=Valentine|first=Rebekah|date=2023-06-12 |title=Ghost Trick: Phantom Detective Remaster Has a Free Demo Out Now|url=https://www.ign.com/articles/ghost-trick-phantom-detective-remaster-has-a-free-demo-out-now |access-date=2023-07-11 |website=IGN|archive-date=2023-07-12|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230712034013/https://www.ign.com/articles/ghost-trick-phantom-detective-remaster-has-a-free-demo-out-now|url-status=live}} To promote the game on Twitter, Capcom translated a collection of short stories previously exclusive to Japan called "Four Prologues", following Sissel, Lynne, Jeego, and Ray leading up to the events of Chapter 1.{{Cite web |last=Cryer|first=Hirun|date=2023-06-22 |title=Capcom's remastered detective game is getting its Japan-exclusive prologues - but only as a string of tweets |url=https://www.gamesradar.com/capcoms-remastered-detective-game-is-getting-its-japan-exclusive-prologues-but-only-as-a-string-of-tweets/ |access-date=2023-07-11 |website=GamesRadar+|archive-date=2023-07-12|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230712035643/https://www.gamesradar.com/capcoms-remastered-detective-game-is-getting-its-japan-exclusive-prologues-but-only-as-a-string-of-tweets/|url-status=live}} "Meeting Missile", an unreleased epilogue Takumi wrote in 2010, was also localized for promotional purposes.{{Cite web |last=Sugiura|first=Aono|date=2023-08-04 |title=「ゴースト トリック」，オリジナルソング「ボクはミサイル」のアレンジ版を公開。公式サイトでは出会いの物語を描くショートストーリーも掲載|language=ja|trans-title=An arranged version of "I Am Missile" has been released. A short story about Missile's origins was also posted on the official website|url=https://www.4gamer.net/games/685/G068511/20230804008/|access-date=2023-08-04 |website=4Gamer.net|archive-date=2023-08-05|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230805103218/https://www.4gamer.net/games/685/G068511/20230804008/|url-status=live}}{{Cite tweet |last=Takumi |first= Shu|author-link=Shu Takumi |number=1687454913151033344|user=takumi_gt |date= 2023-08-04|title=公式HPを見ると、ショートストーリー『ミサイルとの出会い』が公開されてますね。2010年当時に書いたモノの再録なのですが。|trans-title=The short story "Meeting Missile" is now available on the official website, which is a story I wrote back in 2010.|language= ja|access-date=2023-08-06|archive-date=2023-10-21|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231021184615/https://twitter.com/takumi_gt/status/1687454913151033344?s=20|url-status=live}}

The remaster launched on June 30, 2023 for Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, Windows (PC), and Xbox One, and for Android and iOS on March 27, 2024. A limited edition co-developed with escape room company Scrap was made available, including a unique box with reflective embossing and a board game designed by Takumi titled {{Nihongo|"Escape from the Toy Factory"|あるおもちゃ工場からの脱出|Aru Omocha Kōjō kara no Dasshutsu}}. A deluxe edition was also released, including everything from the limited edition plus Ghost Trick Original Sound Track 2023—a CD set of Kitagawa's rearranged soundtrack—and a deck of playing cards featuring character portraits.{{Cite web |date=2023-04-28 |title=『ゴースト トリック 謎解きキット トリツキBOX』詳細公開！ 各ショップ別特典のデザインもご紹介|language=ja|trans-title="Ghost Trick Mystery Solving Kit" details and store-specific bonus content revealed!|url=https://prtimes.jp/main/html/rd/p/000003725.000013450.html|access-date=2023-08-04|website=PR Times|archive-date=2023-08-04|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230804173935/https://prtimes.jp/main/html/rd/p/000003725.000013450.html|url-status=live}} In September 2023, Capcom released the rearranged soundtrack on Spotify, Apple Music, and other music streaming services.{{Cite tweet |author=Capcom USA|author-link=Capcom |number=1702064910094786805|user=CapcomUSA_|date=2023-09-13|title=The rearranged Ghost Trick: Phantom Detective tracks are now also available to stream on [Spotify, Apple Music, Amazon Music, and Deezer.]|access-date=2023-10-02|archive-date=2023-10-03|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231003163045/https://twitter.com/CapcomUSA_/status/1702064910094786805|url-status=live}}

The remaster was developed using Capcom's RE Engine,{{cite web |last=Andriessen|first=CJ |title=Review: Ghost Trick: Phantom Detective (2023) |url=https://www.destructoid.com/reviews/ghost-trick-review-2023/ |website=Destructoid|access-date=12 July 2023 |date=27 June 2023|archive-date=2023-06-27|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230627185048/https://www.destructoid.com/reviews/ghost-trick-review-2023/|url-status=live}} and features upgraded visuals rendered in 1080p at 60 frames per second. As the development team was no longer restricted by hardware limitations, the remaster uses the high-resolution 3D character models that the original DS sprites were rasterized from. The remaster also includes the mobile Ghost Puzzle minigame, music and concept art galleries, customizable widescreen borders, support for nine languages, achievements in the form of "Challenges", a new song composed by Sugimori, and the ability to switch between the original and rearranged soundtracks during gameplay.

According to Takumi, conversations about revisiting Ghost Trick started in 2020.{{Cite magazine |last=Hikaru|first=Katata|date=2023-06-30 |title=祝発売！「ミサイルは『ゴースト トリック』そのものだったように思います」。巧舟＆移植版プロデューサー＆ディレクターに秘話満載のインタビュー |language=ja|trans-title=Celebrating the release of the remaster! "I think Missile lives on within 'Ghost Trick.'" Secrets and stories with the director, the producer, and Shu Takumi|url=https://www.famitsu.com/news/202306/30307811.html|access-date=2023-07-11 |magazine=Famitsu|archive-date=2023-07-12|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230712033956/https://www.famitsu.com/news/202306/30307811.html|url-status=live}} Yuki Kaji, who provided the voice of Ryūichi Naruhodō in the Gyakuten Saiban anime, approached him about technical issues with the mobile version after the release of iOS 14. {{Nowrap|"[Kaji]}} said, 'The iOS version doesn't work anymore!' Due to an update, there was a period where it wasn't playable", Takumi told Famitsu. This prompted him to contact original producer Takeshita, setting discussions about the game's future in motion. Producer Shingo Izumi also cited fan requests as a driving factor in developing the remaster, saying, "With the tenth anniversary, and the [Change.org] petitions, Ghost Trick ranked first on a list of most-wanted remakes." Many of the original staff members who worked on the DS version remained at Capcom, and began development of the remaster in late 2021 with Takumi serving as a supervisor.

{{Video game reviews

| title = Reception

| MC = (NDS) 83/100{{Cite web |title=Ghost Trick: Phantom Detective DS Critic Reviews|url=https://www.metacritic.com/game/ghost-trick-phantom-detective/critic-reviews/?platform=ds |access-date=2023-09-23 |website=Metacritic|archive-date=2023-10-18|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231018192704/https://www.metacritic.com/game/ghost-trick-phantom-detective/critic-reviews/?platform=ds|url-status=live}}
(iOS) 87/100{{Cite web |title=Ghost Trick: Phantom Detective iOS (iPhone/iPad) Critic Reviews|url=https://www.metacritic.com/game/ghost-trick-phantom-detective/critic-reviews/?platform=ios-iphoneipad |access-date=2023-09-23 |website=Metacritic|archive-date=2023-10-18|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231018110126/https://www.metacritic.com/game/ghost-trick-phantom-detective/critic-reviews/?platform=ios-iphoneipad|url-status=live}}
(NS) 86/100{{Cite web |title=Ghost Trick: Phantom Detective Nintendo Switch Critic Reviews|url=https://www.metacritic.com/game/ghost-trick-phantom-detective/critic-reviews/?platform=nintendo-switch|access-date=2023-09-23 |website=Metacritic|archive-date=2023-10-18|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231018110126/https://www.metacritic.com/game/ghost-trick-phantom-detective/critic-reviews/?platform=nintendo-switch|url-status=live}}
(PS4) 84/100{{Cite web |title=Ghost Trick: Phantom Detective PlayStation 4 Critic Reviews|url=https://www.metacritic.com/game/ghost-trick-phantom-detective/critic-reviews/?platform=playstation-4|access-date=2023-09-23 |website=Metacritic|archive-date=2023-10-18|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231018105313/https://www.metacritic.com/game/ghost-trick-phantom-detective/critic-reviews/?platform=playstation-4|url-status=live}}
(PC) 90/100{{Cite web |title=Ghost Trick: Phantom Detective PC Critic Reviews|url=https://www.metacritic.com/game/ghost-trick-phantom-detective/critic-reviews/?platform=pc|access-date=2023-09-23 |website=Metacritic|archive-date=2023-10-18|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231018110126/https://www.metacritic.com/game/ghost-trick-phantom-detective/critic-reviews/?platform=pc|url-status=live}}
(XONE) 84/100{{Cite web |title=Ghost Trick: Phantom Detective Xbox One Critic Reviews|url=https://www.metacritic.com/game/ghost-trick-phantom-detective/critic-reviews/?platform=xbox-one|access-date=2023-09-23 |website=Metacritic|archive-date=2023-10-18|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231018105438/https://www.metacritic.com/game/ghost-trick-phantom-detective/critic-reviews/?platform=xbox-one|url-status=live}}

| 1UP = A

| Destruct = 8.5/10{{Cite web |last=Chester |first=Nick|date=January 11, 2011 |title=Review: Ghost Trick: Phantom Detective|url=https://www.destructoid.com/reviews/review-ghost-trick-phantom-detective/ |access-date=April 2, 2022 |website=Destructoid|archive-date=2023-06-29|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230629092346/https://www.destructoid.com/reviews/review-ghost-trick-phantom-detective/|url-status=live}}

| EuroG = 8/10{{Cite web |last=Whitehead |first=Dan|date=January 17, 2011 |title=Ghost Trick: Phantom Detective |url=https://www.eurogamer.net/articles/2011-01-17-ghost-trick-phantom-detective-review |access-date=April 22, 2016 |website=Eurogamer|archive-date=February 27, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200227131647/https://www.eurogamer.net/articles/2011-01-17-ghost-trick-phantom-detective-review |url-status=live }}

| GSpot = 9/10{{Cite web |last=Petit |first=Carolyn|date=January 11, 2011 |title=Ghost Trick: Phantom Detective Review|url=https://www.gamespot.com/reviews/ghost-trick-phantom-detective-review/1900-6286220/ |access-date=October 22, 2016 |website=GameSpot|archive-date=2013-10-30|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131030235822/https://www.gamespot.com/reviews/ghost-trick-phantom-detective-review/1900-6286220/|url-status=live}}

| GRadar = {{Rating|4|5}}{{cite web |last=Gudmundson|first=Carolyn|date=2011-01-12 |url=https://www.gamesradar.com/ghost-trick-review/|title=Ghost Trick: Phantom Detective review|website=GamesRadar+ |access-date=2023-07-18|archive-date=2023-07-20|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230720141607/https://www.gamesradar.com/ghost-trick-review/|url-status=live}}

| IGN = 8.5/10{{Cite web |last=Hatfield |first=Daemon|date=January 11, 2011 |title=Ghost Trick Review|url=https://www.ign.com/articles/2011/01/11/ghost-trick-review |access-date=October 23, 2016 |website=IGN|archive-date=2023-06-13|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230613010502/https://www.ign.com/articles/2011/01/11/ghost-trick-review|url-status=live}}

| NP = 9/10{{Cite magazine |date=January 2011 |last=Hoffman|first=Chris|title=Ghost Trick: Phantom Detective|magazine=Nintendo Power |publisher=Future US |volume=263 |page=86}}

| TA = {{Rating|4|5}}{{Cite web |last=Khaw |first=Cassandra|date=February 6, 2012 |title='Ghost Trick: Phantom Detective' Review – Dead People Were Never Quite This Awesome Before |url=https://toucharcade.com/2012/02/06/ghost-trick-phantom-detective-review/ |access-date=July 28, 2018 |website=TouchArcade|archive-date=July 9, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220709115453/https://toucharcade.com/2012/02/06/ghost-trick-phantom-detective-review/ |url-status=live }}

| Fam = 34/40{{Cite magazine|title=ゴースト トリック|trans-title=Ghost Trick|language=ja|magazine=Famitsu|url=https://www.famitsu.com/cominy/?m=pc&a=page_h_title&title_id=6287&redirect=no|access-date=2023-09-22|archive-date=2023-09-28|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230928185733/https://www.famitsu.com/cominy/?m=pc&a=page_h_title&title_id=6287&redirect=no|url-status=dead}}

| NLife = {{rating|10|10}}{{Cite web |last=Gray |first=Kate |date=2023-06-27 |title=Ghost Trick: Phantom Detective Review|url=https://www.nintendolife.com/reviews/switch-eshop/ghost-trick-phantom-detective |access-date=2023-06-27 |website=Nintendo Life|archive-date=2023-07-24|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230724111335/https://www.nintendolife.com/reviews/switch-eshop/ghost-trick-phantom-detective|url-status=live}}

| PCGUS = 92/100{{Cite web |last=Brunskill |first=Kerry |date=2023-07-05 |title=Ghost Trick: Phantom Detective Review |url=https://www.pcgamer.com/ghost-trick-phantom-detective-review/ |access-date=2023-07-07 |website=PC Gamer|archive-date=2023-08-04|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230804101743/https://www.pcgamer.com/ghost-trick-phantom-detective-review/|url-status=live}}

| PG = {{Rating|4.5|5}}{{Cite web |last=Brown |first=Mark|date=February 2, 2012 |title=Ghost Trick: Phantom Detective|url=https://www.pocketgamer.com/ghost-trick-phantom-detective/ghost-trick-phantom-detective-review/ |access-date=April 2, 2022 |website=Pocket Gamer|archive-date=April 2, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220402215217/https://www.pocketgamer.com/ghost-trick-phantom-detective/ghost-trick-phantom-detective-review/ |url-status=live }}

| Poly = Recommends{{Cite web |last=Castello |first=Jay |date=2023-07-01 |title=Ghost Trick: Phantom Detective gives new life to a Nintendo DS cult classic |url=https://www.polygon.com/reviews/23780118/ghost-trick-phantom-detective-review-remaster-switch |access-date=2023-07-04 |website=Polygon|archive-date=2023-07-11|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230711043704/https://www.polygon.com/reviews/23780118/ghost-trick-phantom-detective-review-remaster-switch|url-status=live}}

| PSQ = {{rating|8|10}}{{Cite web |last=Tailby |first=Stephen |date=2023-06-27 |title=Ghost Trick: Phantom Detective Review (PS4)|url=https://www.pushsquare.com/reviews/ps4/ghost-trick-phantom-detective |access-date=2023-06-27 |website=Push Square|archive-date=2023-07-21|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230721152316/https://www.pushsquare.com/reviews/ps4/ghost-trick-phantom-detective|url-status=live}}

}}

Ghost Trick received "generally favorable" reviews, according to the review aggregator Metacritic. The 2023 remaster received "universal acclaim" on PC and "generally favorable" reviews on consoles. The game is considered to be a cult classic.{{Cite web |last=Van Allen|first=Eric|date=2023-06-17 |title=Ghost Trick's developers talk music, challenges, and how a cult classic got its revival |url=https://www.destructoid.com/ghost-trick-phantom-detective-remaster-interview-feature-capcom/ |access-date=2023-07-11 |website=Destructoid|archive-date=2023-07-14|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230714102002/https://www.destructoid.com/ghost-trick-phantom-detective-remaster-interview-feature-capcom/|url-status=live}}

The game's story and characters were highly praised. GameSpot{{'}}s Carolyn Petit said the "comic absurdity" of the plot cleverly spins its tragic themes into comedic moments, and that story beats culminate in a rewarding and memorable conclusion. She also found interacting with the game's characters entertaining, admiring their snappy and engaging dialogue. Carolyn Gudmundson of GamesRadar+ found the characters endearing and many-layered, comparing them favorably to the Ace Attorney cast. Gudmundson also called the game's storytelling "Takumi's best work to date", noting Missile in particular as a standout example of character writing. Echoing the sentiments of Gudmundson, Justin Haywald of 1Up.com called Ghost Trick{{'}}s story a "creative extension" of Ace Attorney that successfully expanded on the core ideas of the franchise.{{Cite web |last=Haywald|first=Justin |date=January 12, 2011 |title=Ghost Trick Review (Nintendo DS)|url=http://www.1up.com/reviews/ghost-trick-review |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110629031644/http://www.1up.com/reviews/ghost-trick-review |archive-date=June 29, 2011 |access-date=January 12, 2011 |website=1Up.com}} John Teti of The A.V. Club lauded the game's complex approach to mystery, likening it to the Professor Layton series, but found that the thought bubble hint system often interrupted suspenseful moments.{{Cite web |last=Teti |first=John|date=January 24, 2011 |title=Ghost Trick: Phantom Detective|url=https://www.avclub.com/ghost-trick-phantom-detective-1798223741 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110128181045/http://www.avclub.com/articles/ghost-trick-phantom-detective,50500/ |archive-date=January 28, 2011 |access-date=October 23, 2016 |website=The A.V. Club}}

Writing for IGN, Daemon Hatfield highly praised the game's art direction and animation, calling it "the most impressive{{nbsp}}... [he had] ever seen" in a video game, and the best reason to play it. Dan Whitehead of Eurogamer favorably compared the art style to the works of Éric Chahi, citing Out of This World in particular. He also thought that the theatrical character animation complemented the dramatic stylization of the game's scenery. GameSpot{{'}}s Petit found that the game's exaggerated approach to animation {{Nowrap|"[spoke]}} volumes" about the characters, and helped them stand out against the game's various background environments. Mark Brown of Pocket Gamer also commented on the strong characterization of the animation, praising the game's ability to reveal insight through actions rather than dialogue. Nintendo Life{{'}}s Kate Gray said that the 2023 remaster successfully and faithfully translated the game's visuals to HD, but criticized the pillarboxing that resulted from retaining the DS version's original 4:3 aspect ratio.

Critics were divided on the game's puzzle design and traversal mechanics. 1Up.com{{'}}s Haywald thought the puzzles were novel and fun, but occasionally found the "trial-and-error process" of deducing solutions frustrating. He also expressed disappointment in the seemingly limitless potential of interactable objects often having a single, linear route. Cassandra Khaw of TouchArcade praised the game's rewind mechanic, finding that the ability to restart at any point prevented 4 Minutes Before Death segments from becoming too unforgiving. Push Square{{'}}s Stephen Tailby found the puzzles gratifying to complete, despite their relative simplicity and mild difficulty. Nick Chester of Destructoid largely enjoyed the puzzles, comparing them to the board game Mouse Trap, and found them "full of 'ah-ha!' moments" and satisfying outcomes. He also faulted them for their linearity, however, citing a lack of creative freedom afforded to players. GamePro{{'}}s AJ Glasser took issue with certain late-game puzzles requiring that players wait until the last second to determine the correct solution.{{Cite magazine|last=Glasser |first=AJ|date=January 11, 2011 |title=Ghost Trick: Phantom Detective|url=http://www.gamepro.com/article/reviews/217812/ghost-trick-phantom-detective/|magazine=GamePro|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110115014820/http://www.gamepro.com/article/reviews/217812/ghost-trick-phantom-detective/ |archive-date=January 15, 2011 |access-date=October 23, 2016}} Writing for Game Informer, Joe Juba found the spacing and placement of checkpoints inconsistent, warning that players should expect to rewatch cutscenes and repeat ghost tricks multiple times before solving a puzzle.{{Cite magazine|last=Juba|first=Joe|date=January 11, 2011 |title=Ghost Trick: Phantom Detective Review|url=https://www.gameinformer.com/games/ghost_trick_phantom_detective/b/nintendo_ds/archive/2011/01/11/ghost-trick-review-life-after-death-isn-t-all-it-s-cracked-up-to-be.aspx|magazine=Game Informer|access-date=2023-08-03|archive-date=2023-06-04|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230604100845/https://www.gameinformer.com/games/ghost_trick_phantom_detective/b/nintendo_ds/archive/2011/01/11/ghost-trick-review-life-after-death-isn-t-all-it-s-cracked-up-to-be.aspx|url-status=live}} Jason Schreier of Wired was highly critical of the game's traversal mechanics, and found moving from scene to scene "eternally frustrating{{nbsp}}... due to a constricting gameplay mechanic."{{Cite magazine|last=Schreier |first=Jason|author-link=Jason Schreier |date=January 11, 2011 |title=Review: Charming, Frustrating Ghost Trick Is a Lively Undeath|url=https://www.wired.com/2011/01/ghost-trick-review/ |magazine=Wired|access-date=October 23, 2016|archive-date=2023-04-06|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230406005758/https://www.wired.com/2011/01/ghost-trick-review/|url-status=live}}

Ghost Trick debuted at #2 on the Media Create sales charts, and sold 44,000 physical copies by the end of its release month.{{Cite web |last=Gantayat |first=Anoop|date=June 25, 2010 |title=DS Surges in Japan Following Price Cut |url=https://www.ign.com/articles/2010/06/25/ds-surges-in-japan-following-price-cut |access-date=October 23, 2016 |website=IGN|archive-date=July 9, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220709115117/https://www.ign.com/articles/2010/06/25/ds-surges-in-japan-following-price-cut |url-status=live }}{{Cite web |last=Gantayat |first=Anoop|date=July 2, 2010 |title=Xbox 360 Surges in Japan |url=https://www.ign.com/articles/2010/07/02/xbox-360-surges-in-japan |access-date=October 23, 2016 |website=IGN|archive-date=July 9, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220709115121/https://www.ign.com/articles/2010/07/02/xbox-360-surges-in-japan |url-status=live }} According to the 2011 edition of Video Game Industry White Paper, the game sold a cumulative total of 81,325 physical copies in Japan by December 2010.{{cite book |title=2011テレビゲーム産業白書|language=ja|trans-title=2011 Video Game Industry White Paper|publisher=Media Create|year=2011|isbn=978-4944180233}} Capcom has cited the game's poor performance in Japan as a contributor to low income in the first quarter of its 2010 fiscal year.{{Cite web |last=Sahdev |first=Ishaan|date=July 29, 2010 |title=Low Sales And Higher Development Costs To Blame For 90% Decrease In Capcom Income |url=https://www.siliconera.com/low-sales-and-higher-development-costs-to-blame-for-90-decrease-in-capcom-income/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150924124219/http://www.siliconera.com/2010/07/29/low-sales-and-higher-development-costs-to-blame-for-90-decrease-in-capcom-income/ |archive-date=September 24, 2015 |access-date=April 2, 2022 |website=Siliconera}} Publications have speculated that sales were negatively affected by releasing the game at the end of the DS life cycle, and that it was overshadowed by the announcement of the Nintendo 3DS.{{Cite web|last=Caballero|first=David|title=Fans petition for modern Ghost Trick port|url=https://www.gamereactor.eu/fans-petition-for-modern-ghost-trick-port/|date=2020-06-29|access-date=2023-08-20 |website=Gamereactor|archive-date=2023-08-20|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230820223137/https://www.gamereactor.eu/fans-petition-for-modern-ghost-trick-port/|url-status=live}}{{Cite web|last=Yu|first=Jeffrey|title=Capcom Needs to Bring Back Ghost Trick After The Great Ace Attorney Chronicles|url=https://gamerant.com/capcom-ghost-trick-the-great-ace-attorney-chronicles-revival/|date=2021-07-15|access-date=2023-08-25 |website=Game Rant|archive-date=2023-08-25|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230825164121/https://gamerant.com/capcom-ghost-trick-the-great-ace-attorney-chronicles-revival/|url-status=live}} The iOS version debuted at #1 on the App Store, and "performed well" according to Capcom's 2011 annual report.{{Cite report|year=2011|title=Annual Report 2011|language=ja|url=https://www.capcom.co.jp/ir/data/pdf/annual/2011/annual_2011_01.pdf|access-date=2023-09-22 |publisher=Capcom|page=33|archive-date=2023-10-18|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231018192707/https://www.capcom.co.jp/ir/data/pdf/annual/2011/annual_2011_01.pdf|url-status=live}} The Nintendo Switch version debuted at #5 on the Famitsu sales charts, and sold 10,449 physical copies by the end of its release month.{{Cite web |last=Romano |first=Sal |date=2023-07-06 |title=Famitsu Sales: 6/26/23 – 7/2/23 [Update] |url=https://www.gematsu.com/2023/07/famitsu-sales-6-26-23-7-2-23 |access-date=2023-07-09 |website=Gematsu|archive-date=2023-07-30|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230730224208/https://www.gematsu.com/2023/07/famitsu-sales-6-26-23-7-2-23|url-status=live}}{{Cite web |last=Romano |first=Sal |date=2023-07-13 |title= Famitsu Sales: 7/3/23 – 7/9/23 [Update] |url= https://www.gematsu.com/2023/07/famitsu-sales-7-3-23-7-9-23 |access-date=2023-07-14 |website=Gematsu|archive-date=2023-07-14|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230714210726/https://www.gematsu.com/2023/07/famitsu-sales-7-3-23-7-9-23|url-status=live}}

GameTrailers awarded Ghost Trick Best Nintendo DS Game,{{Cite web|date=2011-12-19|title=Best Nintendo DS Game|url=http://www.gametrailers.com/video/best-nintendo-game-of-the/725002|website=GameTrailers|format=video|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120107200451/http://www.gametrailers.com/video/best-nintendo-game-of-the/725002|archive-date=2012-01-07|access-date=2023-10-21}} and nominated it for Best Story.{{Cite web|date=2011-12-23|title=Best Story|url=http://www.gametrailers.com/video/best-story-game-of-the/725215|website=GameTrailers|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120107200621/http://www.gametrailers.com/video/best-story-game-of-the/725215|format=video|archive-date=2012-01-07|access-date=2023-10-21}} It won Best Handheld Game from GameSpot,{{Cite web |last=Winegarner |first=Tyler|date=December 19, 2011 |title=Best Handheld Game - Best of 2011 Awards Winner |url=https://www.gamespot.com/videos/best-handheld-game-best-of-2011-awards-winner/2300-6347822/ |format=video|access-date=October 23, 2016 |website=GameSpot|archive-date=October 12, 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191012072528/https://www.gamespot.com/videos/best-handheld-game-best-of-2011-awards-winner/2300-6347822/ |url-status=live}} and was nominated for the award by X-Play.{{Cite web |author=GregaMan|date=2011-12-06|title=X-Play Nominates Several Capcom Titles for High Accolades|url=http://www.capcom-unity.com/gregaman/blog/2011/12/06/x-play_nominates_several_capcom_titles_for_high_accolades|access-date=2023-10-21|website=Capcom-Unity|archive-date=2012-10-05|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121005173850/http://www.capcom-unity.com/gregaman/blog/2011/12/06/x-play_nominates_several_capcom_titles_for_high_accolades}} GameSpot also named it Best Puzzle Game,{{cite web |title=GameSpot's E3 2010 Editors' Choice Awards Video Feature|last=Hiraoka|first=Takeshi|url=https://www.gamespot.com/videos/gamespots-e3-2010-editors-choice-awards-video-feat/2300-6266999/|website=GameSpot|format=video|date=2010-06-28|access-date=2023-10-21|archive-date=2019-02-20|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190220144309/https://www.gamespot.com/videos/gamespots-e3-2010-editors-choice-awards-video-feat/2300-6266999/|url-status=live}} while nominating it for Game of the Year.{{Cite web |date=December 15, 2011 |title=Game of the Year - Best of 2011 Award Nominees |url=https://www.gamespot.com/videos/game-of-the-year-best-of-2011-award-nominees/2300-6347720/ |format=video|access-date=October 23, 2016 |website=GameSpot|archive-date=October 14, 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161014065022/http://www.gamespot.com/videos/game-of-the-year-best-of-2011-award-nominees/2300-6347720/ |url-status=live }} It received the award for Best DS Game of E3 2010 from Kotaku and Jeuxvideo.com,{{Cite web |date=2010-06-18|access-date=2023-07-16 |title=Meilleur jeu DS: Ghost Trick Phantom Detective|url=https://www.jeuxvideo.com/dossiers/00012958/les-meilleurs-jeux-de-l-e3-2010-meilleur-jeu-ds-ghost-trick-phantom-detective-005.htm |language=fr|trans-title=Best DS Game: Ghost Trick Phantom Detective |website=Jeuxvideo.com|archive-date=2023-07-16|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230716203444/https://www.jeuxvideo.com/dossiers/00012958/les-meilleurs-jeux-de-l-e3-2010-meilleur-jeu-ds-ghost-trick-phantom-detective-005.htm|url-status=live}} and was nominated for the award by 1Up.com,{{Cite web |author=jgonzo|date=2010-06-23|title=Capcom E3 Awards and Nominations Round Up|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230929160350/http://www.capcom-unity.com/jgonzo/blog/capcom-e3-awards-and-nominations-round-up|archive-date=2023-09-29|url=http://www.capcom-unity.com/jgonzo/blog/capcom-e3-awards-and-nominations-round-up|access-date=2023-09-30 |website=Capcom-Unity}} GameSpot, and GameTrailers.{{Cite web|date=2010-06-24|title=Best DS Game|url=http://www.gametrailers.com/video/best-ds-best-of-e3/701057|website=GameTrailers|format=video|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100627145304/http://www.gametrailers.com/video/best-ds-best-of-e3/701057|archive-date=2010-06-27|access-date=2023-10-21}} It was named Nintendo DS Game of the Year by GameZone,{{Cite web |last=Splechta|first=Mike|date=2011-12-30 |title=GameZone's Game of the Year Awards Day 4: Platform Awards|url=http://www.gamezone.com/editorials/gamezone-s-game-of-the-year-awards-day-4-platform-awards|access-date=2023-10-23 |website=GameZone|archive-date=2012-01-19|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120119035732/http://www.gamezone.com/editorials/gamezone-s-game-of-the-year-awards-day-4-platform-awards}} and received a nomination for the award from Nintendo Life.{{Cite web |date=2011-12-30 |title=Game of the Year: Nintendo Life Staff Awards 2011|url=https://www.nintendolife.com/news/2011/12/game_of_the_year_nintendo_life_staff_awards_2011|access-date=2023-10-23 |website=Nintendo Life|archive-date=2023-05-07|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230507162842/https://www.nintendolife.com/news/2011/12/game_of_the_year_nintendo_life_staff_awards_2011|url-status=live}} The game was included in the GamesRadar+ list of the "Best DS Games of All Time",{{Cite web|date=July 29, 2016 |title=The best DS games of all time |url=https://www.gamesradar.com/best-ds-games/ |access-date=October 23, 2016 |website=GamesRadar+|archive-date=October 23, 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161023163408/http://www.gamesradar.com/best-ds-games/ |url-status=live }} Inquisitr{{'}}s "Best 10 Games at E3 2010",{{Cite web |last=Greenhough|first=Chris|date=2010-06-18 |title=The best 10 games (and game-related things) at E3 2010 |url=https://www.inquisitr.com/76256/the-best-10-games-and-game-related-things-at-e3-2010|access-date=2023-07-16 |website=Inquisitr|archive-date=2023-07-16|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230716203443/http://www.inquisitr.com/76256/the-best-10-games-and-game-related-things-at-e3-2010/|url-status=live}} Game Informer{{'}}s "Top 50 Games of 2011",{{Cite magazine|date=February 2012 |title=Top 50 Games of 2011|issue=226|magazine=Game Informer|page=34|publisher=GameStop}} and Adventure Gamers{{'}} "Top 100 All-Time Adventure Games".{{Cite web|date=December 30, 2011 |title=Top 100 All-Time Adventure Games |url=https://adventuregamers.com/articles/view/18643 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120604021011/http://www.adventuregamers.com/articles/view/18643 |archive-date=June 4, 2012 |website=Adventure Gamers}} The 2023 remaster earned a Game of the Year staff award from Nintendo Life.{{Cite web|date=2023-12-21|last=Lane|first=Gavin|title=Feature: Game Of The Year 2023 - Nintendo Life Staff Awards|url=https://www.nintendolife.com/features/game-of-the-year-2023-nintendo-life-staff-awards |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231227223638/https://www.nintendolife.com/features/game-of-the-year-2023-nintendo-life-staff-awards |archive-date=2023-12-27 |website=Nintendo Life}}

In November 2011, Capcom released Ultimate Marvel vs. Capcom 3, an updated version of Marvel vs. Capcom 3: Fate of Two Worlds introducing Ace Attorney{{'}}s Phoenix Wright and Maya Fey in their fighting game debut. One of the duo's alternate costume sets is themed after the color schemes of Sissel and Lynne, respectively.{{Cite web|last=Baker|first=Chris|date=2011-10-18|title=Ultimate Marvel vs. Capcom 3 - Costume Breakdown, Week 8|url=http://www.gamespot.com/special_feature/marvelcapcom-week8/image-feature/index.html?image=13|url-status=dead|website=GameSpot|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120106155746/http://www.gamespot.com/special_feature/marvelcapcom-week8/image-feature/index.html?image=13|archive-date=January 6, 2012|access-date=2023-07-29}}

In December 2017, Capcom released a free content update for Dead Rising 4 called "Capcom Heroes", giving players 17 new outfits based on the studio's video game franchises, each with their own attributes. This mode includes a Sissel costume, and allows the main character, Frank West, to possess everyday objects and use them to attack enemies.{{Cite web |last=Simpson |first=Jeffery |date=2017-10-06 |title=Capcom Heroes Brings Classic Capcom Characters to Dead Rising 4 |url=http://www.capcom-unity.com/jefferysimpson/blog/2017/10/06/capcom-heroes-brings-classic-capcom-characters-to-dead-rising-4|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171007093920/http://www.capcom-unity.com/jefferysimpson/blog/2017/10/06/capcom-heroes-brings-classic-capcom-characters-to-dead-rising-4|archive-date=2017-10-07|access-date=2023-07-09 |website=Capcom-Unity}}

In a June 2023 Game Informer interview, Takumi said that developing a Ghost Trick sequel would be difficult, and considers Sissel's story complete, but thinks that the powers of the dead introduced in the game hold untapped potential. Producer Izumi suggested that the commercial success of the remaster would ultimately determine the likelihood of a sequel, but that he is open to the possibility.

{{notelist}}

{{reflist}}

• [https://www.capcom-games.com/ghosttrick Ghost Trick: Phantom Detective official website]
• {{moby game|id=/ghost-trick-phantom-detective}}
• {{MusicBrainz release|mbid=d39b4c27-337d-41c9-9796-573dde5e72c7|name=Ghost Trick Original Sound Track}}
• {{MusicBrainz release|mbid=a5185ec8-49af-4148-a973-19321384a3de|name=Ghost Trick Original Sound Track 2023}}

{{Shu Takumi}}

{{Portal bar|Video games|Japan|2010s}}

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