Ghost Trick: Phantom Detective

 DS
User Score
9.5

Universal acclaim- based on 1684 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 1,588 out of 1684
  2. Mixed: 42 out of 1684
  3. Negative: 54 out of 1684
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  1. mavhunter
    Jan 13, 2011
    10
    Shu Takumi might have topped Phoenix Wright. The writing is sheer perfection, seemingly simple at first until it starts revealing the tricks up its sleeve. The gameplay is quite clever and adds more elements both without ever running out of ideas before introducing them and building the story tremendously. The last several hours feature so many twists that the story and puzzles mesh,Shu Takumi might have topped Phoenix Wright. The writing is sheer perfection, seemingly simple at first until it starts revealing the tricks up its sleeve. The gameplay is quite clever and adds more elements both without ever running out of ideas before introducing them and building the story tremendously. The last several hours feature so many twists that the story and puzzles mesh, putting emotion into rotating a piston or opening a trashcan so that you aren't merely completing a level but saving the lives of characters you actually care about.

    The only possible way for Takumi to improve the experiences he's created is to somehow expand the gameplay elements while keeping the size and sweep of the story intact. Until then, the next iterations of Ace Attorney and Ghost Trick will be warmly welcomed.    … Expand
  2. Dogfish44
    Nov 14, 2011
    10
    Easily one of the best, if not the most well known, DS releases of the year. Includes beautiful plot with hints throughout, challenging enough to keep you interested without becoming a game of random clicking, and an OST which is incredible. Shu Takumi has done an excellent job on this game, both in aesthetics and in concept. I'm hoping to see a sequel in some form1
  3. ja52ng74
    Mar 16, 2012
    10
    Innovative and addictive style of gameplay, engaging story rich in creativity without being cliche, catchy music that fits the situation in the game, and a cast of unforgettable characters and their eccentric personalities. Ghost Trick is truly a heartfelt and magical experience that proves how amazing a handheld video game can make someone feel and shows that the Nintendo DS is still aInnovative and addictive style of gameplay, engaging story rich in creativity without being cliche, catchy music that fits the situation in the game, and a cast of unforgettable characters and their eccentric personalities. Ghost Trick is truly a heartfelt and magical experience that proves how amazing a handheld video game can make someone feel and shows that the Nintendo DS is still a worthy console.… Expand
  4. curlybrace
    Jul 12, 2011
    10
    I picked up this game expecting good things from the people who brought us Phoenix Wright, but Ghost Trick has exceeded my every expectation. The gameplay is so innovative, yet at the heart of this game is some truly fanciful storytelling. Contrast this with the Professor Layton series, which for all the praise it gets, does not make any attempt to integrate the puzzles into the actualI picked up this game expecting good things from the people who brought us Phoenix Wright, but Ghost Trick has exceeded my every expectation. The gameplay is so innovative, yet at the heart of this game is some truly fanciful storytelling. Contrast this with the Professor Layton series, which for all the praise it gets, does not make any attempt to integrate the puzzles into the actual story. With Ghost Trick, the puzzling is so seamlessly interwoven that you really feel you have a direct hand in the characters' actions. The character design is like a super stylized comic book, and the character movements are so graceful that I have to believe that animators, not programmers, designed the sequences. I hope that Ghost Trick becomes a series on the new 3DS platform, as there are a lot of possibilities when you factor dimensionality. But even if it doesn't, Ghost Trick stands on its own as a very complete, deeply enjoyable piece of art.… Expand
  5. Alumento
    Jul 8, 2020
    10
    The worst part about playing Ghost Trick is that you'll spend the rest of your life telling people to play Ghost Trick.
  6. serverny
    Feb 27, 2013
    10
    This game is perfection in it's genre.
    Great concept, gorgeous art, fun gameplay, deep story with gazillion plot twists and rewarding ending.
    One of the best games for DS.
  7. Aetherion
    Jan 21, 2012
    10
    It's innovative, the characters are entertaining and rememberable, the animation is absolutely fantastic, the music is catchy, and the puzzles are intelligent. Sure, usually the same method of ghost and tricking works for most puzzles, but that's not the point. It's a genuinely fun game to play. It is a one-shot wonder however, once you complete it chances are youIt's innovative, the characters are entertaining and rememberable, the animation is absolutely fantastic, the music is catchy, and the puzzles are intelligent. Sure, usually the same method of ghost and tricking works for most puzzles, but that's not the point. It's a genuinely fun game to play. It is a one-shot wonder however, once you complete it chances are you won't want to return to it.… Expand
  8. Un0va
    Apr 19, 2013
    10
    While the puzzles can get a little repetitive, it's more than made up for with everything else. The plot is great, the humor is exactly what you might expect from the creators of Phoenix Wright, and it's all held up by a fantastic cast of characters. It's not an exaggeration to say this is one of the best, if not the best game on the DS.
  9. Twirkkhu
    Jun 15, 2014
    9
    The game is beautiful in almost every way, and if you have the money, buy it. It is not the longest game in history, but it makes you feel so many emotions. I'm not gonna say anything else.
  10. palex00
    Oct 14, 2017
    10
    The game has aged incredibly well. The humor, graphics and music is on point after all these years and this game has one of the best game intros of all time. Personally it's my favorite of all time, too. It's incredible and definitely worth a buy. Best suited for NDS but also for iOS
  11. EmuChicken
    Jul 20, 2014
    9
    Hmn, so this is what the spirit realm is like?

    From the same devs as Phoenix Wright, comes this little charmer. GHOST TRICK! You play as a spirit who has a lost memory, and you work through the game to find out who you are. Such a story based game may put a few people off, but it IS a good one. Gameplay is much like Phoenix Wright, as in you solve simple puzzles. Much like said    Hmn, so this is what the spirit realm is like?

    From the same devs as Phoenix Wright, comes this little charmer. GHOST TRICK!
    You play as a spirit who has a lost memory, and you work through the game to find out who you are. Such a story based game may put a few people off, but it IS a good one.

    Gameplay is much like Phoenix Wright, as in you solve simple puzzles. Much like said game, there is usually only one solution, so you repeat until that has been solved. Puzzles are solved by "possessing" things, but your power is not strong, so you can mostly just slightly move things. Another character you come across can "swap" objects around with the same shape.

    The game plays more like an interactive story book, so if mad action is what you're searching for, you won't find it. Zip.
    You could finish it very quickly if you skipped story and knew all the puzzles, but it took me around 25-30 hours to complete.

    Where the game EXCELS in is its story. You follow a spirit trying to regain its memory, but you only have until midnight- or you die! Following the story, you develop an attachment to the other characters, who are all incredibly well thought out. Each has their own style, noone is generic.

    Graphics are also beautiful. So pleasurable to the eye. The way that the cop in white dances around whilst walking. Animation and graphics style works so well on a system as old as the NDS.

    Lets put all the people who like action movies like "Terminator 4", or "AVP" onto one side, then put something like "Bladerunner" on the other.
    Them who like story driven narrative (Bladerunner) will love this.    … Expand
  12. McFinnegan
    May 12, 2011
    9
    I thoroughly enjoyed the story, and the game mechanics were clever. Just when the gameplay starts to get a little too familiar, they add a welcome change. The characters are fantastic, if a bit ridiculous, but endearing and charming. The animations are superb. I'll never forget Detective Cabalena's "walk" (if you can even call it 'walking'). It's a nice touch when EVERYTHING they presentI thoroughly enjoyed the story, and the game mechanics were clever. Just when the gameplay starts to get a little too familiar, they add a welcome change. The characters are fantastic, if a bit ridiculous, but endearing and charming. The animations are superb. I'll never forget Detective Cabalena's "walk" (if you can even call it 'walking'). It's a nice touch when EVERYTHING they present to you becomes important later on. I'm looking at you, [spoiler] and [spoiler] . The ending didn't tie up every loose end, but it's more than satisfactory regardless. Although there's not really a reason to play it again, as there is only one linear story-arc, it's worth at least a rent to play through it once. You shouldn't regret it.… Expand
  13. Metakev
    Jan 8, 2012
    9
    fun gameplay, quirky over-the-top animation, fantastic story, this game is just great however it has a lot of text though dialog is top-notch, solutions however only have one answer and one solution, trial and error come with fun results but with the concept of a game that lets you take and manipulate tons of things, it feels quite restricting
  14. TheBlueBadger
    Nov 29, 2011
    9
    Ghost Trick has to be one of my favourite DS games. The story telling is on par with Phoenix Wright, a game I thought couldn't be topped. You take control of Sissel, a ghost who's been murdered but can't remember who killed him or why. After death he recieved powers to posess and manipulate objects, and travel back in time to before a death. The puzzles in this game consist of saving aGhost Trick has to be one of my favourite DS games. The story telling is on par with Phoenix Wright, a game I thought couldn't be topped. You take control of Sissel, a ghost who's been murdered but can't remember who killed him or why. After death he recieved powers to posess and manipulate objects, and travel back in time to before a death. The puzzles in this game consist of saving a character before they're murdered or die by moving around objects to change the situation. The graphics are unique and the character animations are really fluent. The characters in this game are all full of life and the story is one of the most engaging things on the DS. My only gripes with this game would have to be the inconsistant difficulty (the final puzzle is very easy to solve yet ones earlier on in the game are brain scratchers) and that the story takes a short while to get going. But once it did, I literally couldn't put the game down to find out what happened next. This is essential to Phoenix Wright fans and gamers alike and if you haven't bought it yet, why?… Expand
  15. lustrofuria
    Dec 19, 2011
    10
    Great game. A interesting mystery story. A good system to resolve enigmas. Good visuals and very charismatic characters. I recommend to everyone this game.
  16. gboukensha
    Jan 23, 2012
    10
    This game is so good it surprised me, even if I already knew it had to be good I didn't expect it to be SO good. The game is entertaining from start to end, with so many twists and turns it will let you wanting for more and more as the chapters flow by and the mystery unravels. Animation-wise it is simply splendid, the pixel graphics are gorgeous and the music incredibly fitting. The gameThis game is so good it surprised me, even if I already knew it had to be good I didn't expect it to be SO good. The game is entertaining from start to end, with so many twists and turns it will let you wanting for more and more as the chapters flow by and the mystery unravels. Animation-wise it is simply splendid, the pixel graphics are gorgeous and the music incredibly fitting. The game also makes great use of chromostereopsis, especially in the ghost world, to give a sense of depth that those who perceive the effect to a great extent (like myself) will double their enjoyment of the title. Gameplay stays fresh and satisfying for the whole duration. If I had to find a defect, if we want to call it so, it's its strict linearity; you are rarely given an opportunity to explore and look for clues on yourself, instead the characters themselves give so many hints you will want to cover your eyes to leave the surprise unspoiled. Anyway this is a minor flaw and it leaves the game a true gem.… Expand
  17. Dodo22
    Mar 7, 2012
    10
    Incredible story, mechanics, animations. The tale is harrowing, chilling and simply brilliant. Buy this game, you will not be disappointed. This game deserves the attention of the entire industry for its uniqueness.
  18. OmoDeCarton
    Dec 22, 2012
    9
    A fantastic story, with a great plot. The influence from Ace Attorney is great (and is a good thing). The game is not very long (about 10 hours), but it is very funny. There aren't impossible "trick". Music is great, so the game engine. 9 of 10 only because for me is short.
  19. RelioXx99
    Mar 7, 2019
    10
    Underrated joy of the DS. 10/10 Story 10/10 Art 10/10 Character 10/10 Music
  20. miccael
    Aug 28, 2018
    10
    Such an awesome story, artstyle and cool idea. And the cute doggie! I wish it was remastered or at least ported on PC/Consoles. This is the definition of genre perfection.
  21. FromKanga
    Jan 28, 2017
    9
    This is one of my favourite DS games of all time

    Great story, it's intriguing and it kept me on edge, it's something you have to experience yourself. The characters is the reason why I love this game so much, each character has a distinctive and likable personality, I ended up caring for them near the end. Really innovative gameplay, since you are a ghost, you have to reach    This is one of my favourite DS games of all time

    Great story, it's intriguing and it kept me on edge, it's something you have to experience yourself.
    The characters is the reason why I love this game so much, each character has a distinctive and likable personality, I ended up caring for them near the end.

    Really innovative gameplay, since you are a ghost, you have to reach different objects to control them, the concept alone is awesome and the execution is just as incredible.
    The graphics won't blow you away but for a DS game, it's pretty good.

    The only problem with the game is that it's not for everyone, if you don't like games with a lot of text then you will hate this game.

    In conclusion, if you have a DS (or a 3DS) BUY IT NOW!!!    … Expand
  22. ashketchum
    May 4, 2018
    9
    The Ace Attorney series were a great example of a story-focused game that featured a story that would benefit from being told through it's particular medium. Ghost Trick is another great example. It features a compelling narrative which somehow manages to come together well at the end, memorable characters, a soundtrack which enhances atmosphere at crucial moments and beautiful animation.The Ace Attorney series were a great example of a story-focused game that featured a story that would benefit from being told through it's particular medium. Ghost Trick is another great example. It features a compelling narrative which somehow manages to come together well at the end, memorable characters, a soundtrack which enhances atmosphere at crucial moments and beautiful animation. It also features unique gameplay, which greatly makes use of the DS as well. In some ways, this gameplay gives it another layer on top of the Ace Attorney games, which were pretty much visual novels. Fantastic game.… Expand
  23. LIWYC
    Sep 1, 2019
    10
    The most impressive games since I play Ace Attorney, Shu Takumi well work the exucution is here too in this game but that's all that's not AA that's Ghost Trick and my new favorite game.
  24. futureP
    Jun 28, 2023
    9
    Ghost Trick: Phantom Detective is a captivating and inventive puzzle-adventure game that stands out for its unique gameplay mechanics, engaging storyline, and stylish presentation. With its well-crafted puzzles, time manipulation mechanics, and memorable characters, the game offers a fresh and satisfying experience that will keep players hooked until the end. If you're a fan ofGhost Trick: Phantom Detective is a captivating and inventive puzzle-adventure game that stands out for its unique gameplay mechanics, engaging storyline, and stylish presentation. With its well-crafted puzzles, time manipulation mechanics, and memorable characters, the game offers a fresh and satisfying experience that will keep players hooked until the end. If you're a fan of puzzle-solving games or enjoy narrative-driven experiences, Ghost Trick is a must-play title that offers a unique and memorable journey.… Expand
  25. ArtemisFowl
    Feb 2, 2022
    10
    Absolutely incredible game.
    Directed by Shu Takumi and OST by Masakazu Sugimori, the creator and composer for the original AA trilogy, and it shows. I would argue this is even better.
    One of a kind gameplay, and when I booted up the game a decade ago, I mistook the game animations for a cutscene before realizing that was the actual game.
    Everything about this game is stellar.
  26. clickrisk
    Jan 7, 2021
    10
    Ghost Trick is hands down the best game I've ever played and possibly the best game ever made. There are absolutely 0 areas where Ghost Trick does not excel at. It's charming cast of characters, it's soundtrack, it's visuals, it's story; everything in Ghost Trick is perfect. Every animation is lovingly crafted and look absolutely fantastic considering its a DS game. It's by far theGhost Trick is hands down the best game I've ever played and possibly the best game ever made. There are absolutely 0 areas where Ghost Trick does not excel at. It's charming cast of characters, it's soundtrack, it's visuals, it's story; everything in Ghost Trick is perfect. Every animation is lovingly crafted and look absolutely fantastic considering its a DS game. It's by far the prettiest game on the system and it's beautiful style hasn't aged a single day. Every character design is perfect and tells you everything you need to know about them, which is even more satisfying as the game's plot moves along. The soundtrack is perfect, every song in it is memorable and every character theme gives you an instant idea of exactly what their character is.
    The story is probably the best in any video game ever. Like any good mystery, it foreshadows its twists while still leaving you surprised at them. I think Ghost Trick has left me the most surprised out of any game I've ever played, and it's worth doing a replay to see how genius the writers were. I cannot praise its story enough. It is just that good.
    If you have not played Ghost Trick, there is absolutely no reason you should not be playing it right now. It's simple and easy controls make it immediately accessible to anyone, and it is overall one of the finest crafted games ever made. You owe it to yourself to play this game.    … Expand
  27. Firemam
    Aug 26, 2021
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. [spoiler] A cat that i controlled from the beginning :v. That was an outstanding one

    At first, i thought that the soul i had controlled was the *player* (means who play this game), i put a lots of theory for that *thought* beacause that was the only explaination for the wild soul appeared at the junkyard, i made a mistake - that i didn't see cat cage

    Well, i had played all games of ace attorney series before i played this game and i was confident that i get used to the way Shu Takumi write story. BUT NO, this masterpiece is diffirent (even more outplay than Prof Layton vs AA) and i got outplayed (worse than being rickrolled)

    Anyway this game deserve 9 point but for outplayed me. 10    … Expand
  28. Tiziown
    May 22, 2021
    10
    An amazingly written story, told with a very fast pace(the entire game is set in one single night), with funny characters who get deeper and deeper as you go on. Gameplay is original and quirky, it makes you use your brain without feeling heavy at all.
    The game is a pleasure to look at with it's astonishing 2D, detailed and well animated and the soundtrack isn't bad either, probably not    An amazingly written story, told with a very fast pace(the entire game is set in one single night), with funny characters who get deeper and deeper as you go on. Gameplay is original and quirky, it makes you use your brain without feeling heavy at all.
    The game is a pleasure to look at with it's astonishing 2D, detailed and well animated and the soundtrack isn't bad either, probably not at masterpiece level like everything else in the game but still good.    … Expand
  29. donenilo
    Aug 3, 2021
    10
    This game, like many other players, totally surprised me in so many good ways. This is one of the best games on the DS.
  30. rzgtribe
    Nov 14, 2021
    10
    Finally, got third place, this game deserves it as the best storyline I've ever played. Not to mention the animation and music. The well-executed and the best game on Nintendo DS platform. Hands down.
  31. Hazardious
    Sep 4, 2022
    10
    Best DS game ever! Would highly recommend playing it to anyone who missed it at the time.
  32. DarkwingSchmuck
    Jul 15, 2023
    10
    Ghost Trick: Phantom Detective is a home run from the brilliant minds behind Phoenix Wright: Ace Attorney. Like Phoenix Wright, Ghost Trick is a superbly creative adventure/ puzzle game with an exceptional story, wonderful characters, amazing soundtrack, gorgeous animation, and hilarious dialogue. Furthermore, Ghost Trick makes perfect use out of the Nintendo DS's unique features, and isGhost Trick: Phantom Detective is a home run from the brilliant minds behind Phoenix Wright: Ace Attorney. Like Phoenix Wright, Ghost Trick is a superbly creative adventure/ puzzle game with an exceptional story, wonderful characters, amazing soundtrack, gorgeous animation, and hilarious dialogue. Furthermore, Ghost Trick makes perfect use out of the Nintendo DS's unique features, and is one of the best examples of a game crafted around its hardware; however, the recently released remaster is every bit as fantastic of an experience, despite missing the dual screen and touch controls (the updated visuals and arranged music help soften the blow, as well).

    This is a game that should be experienced by everyone, regardless of your platform of choice.    … Expand
  33. NetOne
    Jul 31, 2022
    10
    Довольно интересно выходит, что раньше я не воспринимал Nintendo DS, как нормальную консоль, так как считал, что там нет нормальных игр. НО! Сначала я поиграл в Ace Attorney, потом в Professor Layton, Hotel Dusk... Последней каплей стала игра Ghost Trick: Phantom Detective. После чего, я кардинально изменил свою точку зрения насчёт этой консоли. ГРАФИКА

    Начну, пожалуй с графики. Она    Довольно интересно выходит, что раньше я не воспринимал Nintendo DS, как нормальную консоль, так как считал, что там нет нормальных игр. НО! Сначала я поиграл в Ace Attorney, потом в Professor Layton, Hotel Dusk... Последней каплей стала игра Ghost Trick: Phantom Detective. После чего, я кардинально изменил свою точку зрения насчёт этой консоли. ГРАФИКА

    Начну, пожалуй с графики. Она прелестна! Как и сам визуальный стиль. Игра отлично комбинирует 3Д модели персонажей с 2Д окружением. Это не может не радовать!

    МУЗЫКА

    Тут всё также хорошо, как и с графикой. Мелодии запоминаются, а некоторые мне настолько понравились, что я сейчас их слушаю, пока пишу этот обзор.

    ГЕЙМПЛЕЙ

    Геймплей тут достаточно интересен. Вы должны спасать жизни людей, будучи призраком. Есть отдельные механики, позволяющие это делать. Они будут дополняться по мере развития сюжета.

    СЮЖЕТ Здесь сюжет закрученный, однако запутаться в нём будет сложно. Нашего главного героя убивают по неизвестным причинам. Мы должны выяснить всё, до наступления рассвета.

    ОЦЕНКА Впринципе, это всё, что я хотел высказать об этой игре. Ghost Trick - это отличная визуальная новелла, которую я рекомендую к прохождению.    … Expand
  34. Juilty
    Aug 23, 2022
    10
    New game, created by Shu Takumi(after developed for trilogy Ace Attorney Phoenix Wright, and sequel Apollo Justice). This game is beautiful. Thanks, Shu Takumi
  35. StudiosBork
    Sep 7, 2022
    10
    For me, this is the best game from the Nintendo DS, an absolute mind-blowing plot, really fun puzzles and of course, a magnificent character design that I really enjoyed.
    Totally recommended.
  36. DialAForAwesome
    May 6, 2023
    9
    The pinnacle of storytelling in any video game I’ve played, and lacking in any significant flaws, Ghost Trick: Phantom Detective is a must-play.
  37. Pilest
    Jul 3, 2023
    9
    Fun fun fun. I think this game is great. Nice story and mystery. It’s so cool play it but wait for a sale because 30 bones is a lot of bone for an old ds game. 7/10
  38. Cehanson
    Jul 16, 2023
    8
    Love the story and the characters. The gameplay was unique too, but got a little annoying at times. My main complaint is having to rewatch cutscenes/animations when figuring out a puzzle.
  39. Geekycheeky
    Jan 17, 2011
    10
    This game is brilliant, very pretty and I must mention that the Animation is almost perfect. It makes the characters very charismatic and the story even more believable. The design is well done and there is a good balance of difficulty. With many puzzles they throw at you small hints, not obvious enough to spoil the fun and obvious enough to push your thinking-machine. The humor alsoThis game is brilliant, very pretty and I must mention that the Animation is almost perfect. It makes the characters very charismatic and the story even more believable. The design is well done and there is a good balance of difficulty. With many puzzles they throw at you small hints, not obvious enough to spoil the fun and obvious enough to push your thinking-machine. The humor also surprised me in this game, it made me smile and giggle a lot. I recommend this game to anyone who like puzzle games and/or liked the Phoenix Wright serie. Yes it's a 10 point, 9 wouldn't be enough. Enjoy!… Expand
  40. Susano
    Jan 26, 2012
    9
    Hands down, one of the best games on DS. Ghost Trick is completely brilliant from start to finish- with great puzzles, fantastic characters, an engaging story and a truly awesome ending. Each character is fully realised, and everyone has a part to play in this stellar tale. The puzzles can be a bit hit and miss occassionally, but you'll forgive it, if only because it's so utterly likeable.
  41. theshonen8899
    Jun 21, 2011
    10
    Phenomenal. This game is the perfect blend of puzzle solving, mystery, and creative gameplay. The characters are charming, the story is captivating, and the puzzles are generally well done, with only a few strange ones here and there. If you love a good mystery game this is something you must play!
  42. Calavera
    Mar 5, 2011
    10
    One of the best games on the DS. IGN summed it up perfectly by saying that Ghost Trick brings innovation to an ageing genre. The game draws your total attention for the full 12 hours of game play. I was fixated for the duration and near tears come the end. Whilst there is a lot of text and sometimes you would just like to get on with the game, the storyline is gripping and the charactersOne of the best games on the DS. IGN summed it up perfectly by saying that Ghost Trick brings innovation to an ageing genre. The game draws your total attention for the full 12 hours of game play. I was fixated for the duration and near tears come the end. Whilst there is a lot of text and sometimes you would just like to get on with the game, the storyline is gripping and the characters memorable and heart warming. Don't miss this game!… Expand
  43. MrMintyCool
    Jan 13, 2011
    10
    There is thousands of puzzlers on the ds, but none of them are as unique as this brilliant title. Ghost Trick: Phantom Detective starts with your character, Sissel, lying dead on the floor. When you are dead you discover that you have special powers. You can possess items and trick them, causing the item to do a action. It may sound strange, but it is very easy to use and feels very fresh.There is thousands of puzzlers on the ds, but none of them are as unique as this brilliant title. Ghost Trick: Phantom Detective starts with your character, Sissel, lying dead on the floor. When you are dead you discover that you have special powers. You can possess items and trick them, causing the item to do a action. It may sound strange, but it is very easy to use and feels very fresh. You then find out that you cant remember anything about who you were and why you were killed, and that you only have till sunrise before you go to the afterlife. Sissel decides that he is going to use his last hours on earth wisely and try and find out his identity. Its a great story and it gets better and better as you progress. Another brilliant thing about this game is the spectacular graphics. It is very detailed and when people and items move it looks amazing and is very smooth. If you are looking for a new puzzler on the ds which is a fresh and thrilling experience this is the game you need.… Expand
  44. Sensei
    Jan 16, 2011
    10
    Fun and well animated. An adventure that no one should miss, and a must buy for every DS owner. If you don't have one, borrow it. This game may be one of the best DS games of the year and even the best.
  45. GentlemanGamer
    Jun 6, 2011
    10
    One of the, if not, THE best DS game of all time. With a stellar plot, lovable characters and charming gameplay, this game is an absolute masterpiece. Capcom.... RELEASE THIS ON THE IOS IN NORTH AMERICA!!!!!... Please?
  46. davidcraig
    Feb 7, 2011
    10
    I LOVE THIS GAME!!!!!! A genius idea, with a great story, fantastic twist, amazingness!!! A MUST BUY!
  47. Thirty2
    Sep 23, 2016
    6
    Sadly, I didn't enjoy this game, mostly for reasons that probably only apply to me. Although I'm a massive fan of the Phoenix Wright games, Ghost Trick, even with its similarities to the Ace Attorney trilogy, failed to impress me.
    The game looks good; it's stylized and colorful, but the soundtrack didn't quite click with me. I also didn't really enjoy the gameplay; I solved the earlier    Sadly, I didn't enjoy this game, mostly for reasons that probably only apply to me. Although I'm a massive fan of the Phoenix Wright games, Ghost Trick, even with its similarities to the Ace Attorney trilogy, failed to impress me.
    The game looks good; it's stylized and colorful, but the soundtrack didn't quite click with me. I also didn't really enjoy the gameplay; I solved the earlier puzzles with ease or by trial and error that immediately paid off, but a later puzzle had me absolutely stumped and brought my playthrough to a screeching halt. I'm sorry, but I didn't even like the puzzle-solving itself simply because it didn't feel satisfying enough for the most part.
    The thing that annoys me the most about this title is its odd sense of humor. A character getting killed by ending up squashed underneath of a giant roast chicken struck me as embarrassingly bizarre, and I found many of the characters to be off-putting as well. I'm fully aware that this is just a personal issue and that many people will enjoy Ghost Trick's style of humor and mystifying plot, but I'm afraid I simply didn't.
    I'm sorry! I want to like Ghost Trick. Ghost Trick fans, please don't take this as an insult; this is simply my unfortunate opinion.    … Expand
  48. SupaChigga
    Nov 18, 2013
    10
    Single Player/Multi Player (2/2)

    (If the single player is better than the multiplayer, review this section as if it had no multplayer) (If the multiplayer is better than the multiplayer, review this section as if it had no single player) Gameplay (2/2) Visuals/Story (2/2) (If the visuals are better than the story, review this section as if it had no story) (If the story is    Single Player/Multi Player (2/2)

    (If the single player is better than the multiplayer, review this section as if it had no multplayer) (If the multiplayer is better than the multiplayer, review this section as if it had no single player)

    Gameplay (2/2)

    Visuals/Story (2/2)

    (If the visuals are better than the story, review this section as if it had no story) (If the story is better than the visuals, review this section as if the visuals didn’t matter)

    Accessibility/Longevity (2/2)

    (Review this section only on Accessibility if the game has no longevity) (Review this section only on longevity if the game isn’t accessible)

    Pricing (1/2)

    Wildcard (+1)

    This is a guideline for how to properly review games. Many reviewers like to get a “feel” for a game, and arbitrarily give a game a score that they believe it deserves. This results in wildly different scores between different reviewers, and vastly different scores between similar games. This guideline addresses these problems and scores games fairly and consistently. This guideline also gives scores that are usually similar to the metacritic score.

    The review score is based out of 10 points. There are no “half” or 0.5 increments. It is impossible to have a score above 10 or below 0. The review score will change as the game gets new dlc, drops in price, or if more secrets are found through the game increasing its appeal.

    The scoring is split into 6 sections. The first five sections can add a possible 2 points to the final score. The first 5 sections are Single Player/Multi Player, Gameplay, Visuals/Story, Accessibility/Longevity, and Pricing.

    Notice that 3 of these sections have two parts. These particular sections will be scored based on the stronger part of the game of the two. For example, if a game has a lousy single player campaign, but an excellent multiplayer component, that section will be based solely on the multiplayer as if the single player did not exist. This allows games to be based on their own merits, as many unnecessary features are shoehorned into video games by publishers to reach a “feature quota”. Games that excel in both areas of a section don’t receive should be noted in the written review, but cannot increase the score past 2 in that section. However, it can be taken into account in the final section

    The final section can add 1, add 0, or subtract 1 to the final score. This final section is the “wildcard” section. This section is for how the reviewer “feels” about the game, but limits this only to this section, rather than the entire 10 point review. This section can include any positive or negative point that was not covered in the previous 5 sections.    … Expand
  49. Esfereidorous
    Jun 7, 2018
    10
    It is a shame this game does not have the reputation it deserves. Superb story-telling, told in its own unique game design, with lovable characters. Mechanics with good development pace, stunning art and BEAUTIFUL animations, brilliant OST... with the only, tiny downside of sometime hit-and-miss puzzle solving.

    I can't help but find this game the best title from the author - Shu Takumi    It is a shame this game does not have the reputation it deserves. Superb story-telling, told in its own unique game design, with lovable characters. Mechanics with good development pace, stunning art and BEAUTIFUL animations, brilliant OST... with the only, tiny downside of sometime hit-and-miss puzzle solving.

    I can't help but find this game the best title from the author - Shu Takumi - and, by far, one of the bests on the DS.

    Capcom, get this series rolling again. You are missing a great opportunity. The Switch would be the perfect place for this gem.    … Expand
  50. SaberHazari
    Jun 29, 2021
    10
    One of my 3 most favourite video games... I absolutely love and cherish this game!
  51. RunFish12B8
    Dec 28, 2021
    10
    The game is divine!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
  52. hamburger69
    Dec 13, 2022
    2
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. I once dated a ghost, never again Iv had nothing but bad experiences with ghosts and this is no different I won’t **** another ghost. Hi benji… Expand
  53. 400lingrush
    Apr 4, 2011
    7
    Pretty good until the last few chapters, where all the interesting plot points were explained in the worst, most cliche way possible. Level design was okay, but there wasn't much worth mentioning.
  54. Cindabella
    Mar 24, 2011
    4
    I was really disappointed with this game given its quite high user reviews. The flow is terrible you are constantly having to click on dialog boxes. The story line is really bad, which would be less of a problem if you could skip the story. The puzzles are not worth the wait to get to them. Don't waste your money.
  55. paprik
    Aug 5, 2013
    4
    "Infinite waiting for a plot twist that doesn't deliver" is how I would describe this game in one sentence. The gameplay seems interesting at first but quickly falls off as it is extremely tedious, repetitive and most of all incredibly easy. I would estimate there are about two 10 second segments that offer any challenge at all for a person of average intelligence.

    The animation is    "Infinite waiting for a plot twist that doesn't deliver" is how I would describe this game in one sentence. The gameplay seems interesting at first but quickly falls off as it is extremely tedious, repetitive and most of all incredibly easy. I would estimate there are about two 10 second segments that offer any challenge at all for a person of average intelligence.

    The animation is excellent and story has great potential that sadly gets wasted in the second half of the game. Even the pacing is really poor since the animation and dialogue is slow and cannot really be fast forwarded.    … Expand
  56. harryjc
    Feb 5, 2018
    6
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. This game was well done, but unfortunately the ending was unsatisfying. It's like they didn't know what to do with the story. Pretty disappointed. If the ending was good the game would've been at least an 8 in my books.

    [Spoiler Alert]

    So, about the ending. It's revealed that you're a cat at the end. The problem with this is they never properly set it up. This ending would have been fine, if they made it legitimate throughout the course of the game. But they didn't. They gave very few clues about your identity, and at times the clues were contradicted, so that made it confusing.

    They did this whole nonsense about you not having memory of who you were because your body was obscured, and that you are a cat. But this does not fall in line with what they established about animals. The dog Missile had the personality of a dog, and he could remember himself for the most part. So, they gave us observations about animals, but did not follow it for your character the cat. They made double standards.

    So, you're a cat, but you act 100% like a human? Not like an animal? They threw you off from figuring it out on your own. They never gave any good hints. Just small things here, and there that weren're really substantive.

    If they wanted to fix this they should have shown the cat more, first of all, and made your character behave more like a cat. They could've done this in numerous ways. Let's say that scene where Sissel goes to the chicken restaurant. Maybe he'd say he doesn't like chicken as much as fish. Or make Sissel have a good sense of smell, and only he could see in the night, but no one else can.

    Perhaps be a little cheeky, and he says, "Oh, how did I survive? It's like I have 9 lives." Things like that. Just make it obvious but not too obvious. When the ending is revealed the player should say, "Of course!" Instead of "wtf?"

    You know, they just didn't use the stereotypes of cats to the benefit of the player. Why not make Missile a little more hostile to Sissel? Because you know they say cats, and dogs don't get along. How about Sissel taking the form of the man in red, and poking fun at his appearance going, "Hmm, so this is how I look? I thought I'd be more handsome."

    Etc. These are just suggestions, but the whole surprise was not set up very well.    … Expand
  57. Fahad-13
    May 22, 2023
    10
    لعبه ضافة الشي الكثير لصناعه مع قصه و شخصيات جميله ويش اقول ويش اخلي صراحه يكفي انها من كاب كوم
  58. hector_bcn98
    Aug 2, 2023
    8
    Se hace algo tosco y repetitivo, pero tiene una historia y unas mecánicas tan originales como efectivas.
  59. Yojimbo2015
    Jun 2, 2023
    7
    Likeably quirky puzzle game in which you investigate your own death by possessing inanimate objects. Great looking cel-shaded graphics and a fun storyline makes for one of the best puzzlers on the DS.
  60. Larxi
    Feb 3, 2023
    10
    COLOSAL AVENTURA GRÁFICA de las mejores de DS y de las que he jugado en mi vida en general. La historia de nuestro amigo Sissel está tan bien escrita, no dejando nada al azar, con tan buenos personajes y una jugabilidad tan bien pensada, con puzzles ideados de una manera sublime, con un humor muy efectivo, una BSO para el recuerdo y cargado todo con momentos emotivos. Es el culmen de loCOLOSAL AVENTURA GRÁFICA de las mejores de DS y de las que he jugado en mi vida en general. La historia de nuestro amigo Sissel está tan bien escrita, no dejando nada al azar, con tan buenos personajes y una jugabilidad tan bien pensada, con puzzles ideados de una manera sublime, con un humor muy efectivo, una BSO para el recuerdo y cargado todo con momentos emotivos. Es el culmen de lo que una aventura gráfica debería ser, el culmen de la carrera como director y escritor de Shu Takumi, el máximo apogeo técnico en 2D de la DS es largo, variado, con multitud de escenarios diferentes que funcionan individualmente como una master class del género de puzzle y aventura gráfica.
    Es perfecto y le da una patada a cualquier juego triple A hollywoodiense, la NARRATIVA ES ESTO.
    Simplemente majestuoso.    … Expand
  61. Breadboy
    Jul 24, 2023
    5
    Amazing story, great visuals, outstanding soundtrack, what's not to love!? Ghost Trick: Phantom Detective is one of my favorite games oat.
  62. PhoneTheo
    Aug 24, 2023
    10
    This game is just phenomenal. The mystery, the characters, the music, the plot twists. It's perfect and a must play.
  63. Kymori
    Aug 11, 2023
    10
    One of the best games ever made, absolutely amazing story and characters. Unique gameplay.
  64. Bugggger
    Aug 23, 2023
    6
    While the idea of uncovering the truth from beyond the grave is intriguing, the plot quickly becomes convoluted with a tangled web of characters and motives that failed to hold my interest. The narrative lacks cohesion and fails to create a sense of emotional investment in the outcome. The end game twists in particular are quite unsatisfying, and make me wonder what the point of most ofWhile the idea of uncovering the truth from beyond the grave is intriguing, the plot quickly becomes convoluted with a tangled web of characters and motives that failed to hold my interest. The narrative lacks cohesion and fails to create a sense of emotional investment in the outcome. The end game twists in particular are quite unsatisfying, and make me wonder what the point of most of the game was. The game is both too long and too short. It's not long enough to get you truly invested in the characters or story, but the way it's written also feels very dragged out. You don't really learn much of anything about what is going on until the last few hours, and I feel the middle section could have been trimmed considerably. The gameplay was fine but it won't stick with me. It's very on rails.… Expand

Awards & Rankings

5
#5 Best DS Game of 2011
3
#3 Most Discussed DS Game of 2011
4
#4 Most Shared DS Game of 2011

Critic Reviews

All reviews »
Metascore
83

Generally favorable reviews - based on 60 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 54 out of 60
  2. Mixed: 6 out of 60
  3. Negative: 0 out of 60
  1. N-Europe
    May 2, 2011
    80
    An engaging storyline, memorable characters and wonderful animation make this game a true treat.
    Read full review
  2. GameCritics
    Mar 27, 2011
    95
    Ghost Trick is a masterpiece, made by developers who thoroughly understand the medium they're working in and the hardware they're working with.
    Read full review
  3. Gamer.no
    Mar 7, 2011
    90
    Ghost Trick: Phantom Detective is a fantastic combination of absurd Japanese humor and point and click mechanics. It's filled to the brim with charm, good laughs and brilliant puzzles that will keep you locked to the screen for hours on end.
    Read full review
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