Is Ghost Arcade free to use?

Yes — fully free and open source. The Community edition (AGPL-3.0) gives you the full foundation: projection mapping, 11 layer types, 50+ effects, single-deck VJ launcher, MIDI control, mobile companion (iPad/phone), recording, ISF shader playground. Source on GitHub. No signup, no watermark, no expiry. Mac, Windows, Linux.

Is Ghost Arcade open source?

The Community edition is open source under AGPL-3.0. Source code is on GitHub at github.com/riskcapital/ghost-arcade-community. The commercial Pro edition (which adds dual-deck VJ, A/B crossfader, macros, snapshots, AI generation, Spout/Syphon) is a separately maintained codebase under a commercial license.

What is the difference between Community (free, open source) and Pro?

Community is free, AGPL-3.0 open source with the foundation surfaces (projection mapping, 11 layer types, 50+ effects, single-deck VJ launcher, MIDI, mobile companion, recording, shader playground). Pro adds the live-performance + AI surfaces: dual-deck VJ + A/B crossfader (10 transitions × 9 blend modes), 8-knob macro effect-bank, 16-slot snapshot bank, quantized clip launching, MIDI clock, Spout/Syphon, AI shader + video generation, keyframe timeline, plugin tab.

Can I use the open-source Community edition commercially?

Yes. Commercial creative use is allowed under AGPL-3.0 — paid shows, client visuals, installations, recordings, streams, tutorials. The visuals you create with the app are yours. The AGPL applies to the source code itself: if you modify the source and run it on a network server, you must make the modified source available to users. See COMMERCIAL_USE.md in the repo for details.

Do I need coding experience?

No. Everything is visual and interactive. Pick shaders from the library, drag effects onto layers, and adjust parameters with sliders. Pro adds AI generation that lets you describe what you want in plain English.

What projectors work with Ghost Arcade?

Any projector that connects to your computer via HDMI, DisplayPort, or USB-C. Ghost Arcade outputs to any display your operating system recognizes, including multiple projectors simultaneously.

Can I use it for live shows?

Absolutely. Both editions are built for live performance. Community has the single-deck clip launcher + Performer keyboard mode + MIDI mapping + mobile companion. Pro adds dual-deck with A/B crossfader, 8-knob macros, 16-slot snapshot scene bank, MIDI clock, and quantized launching for tight musical drops.

Does it work with MIDI controllers?

Yes. Any MIDI controller works out of the box in both editions. Use learn mode to map any knob, fader, button, or pad to any parameter. Multi-device support with channel filtering. Pro adds MIDI clock receive + send (24 PPQN, sync to/from Ableton).

Is there a Linux version?

The Community edition ships an AppImage for Linux. The commercial Pro edition is currently Mac + Windows only.

Is there a Mac version?

Yes. Both editions run on macOS 12+ (Apple Silicon and Intel). Pro is signed + notarized; Community is unsigned (right-click → Open on first launch).

What file formats are supported?

Videos: MP4, MOV, WebM, GIF. Images: PNG, JPG, WebP. 3D models: GLTF, GLB, FBX. Point clouds: PLY, .splat. Vector: SVG. Shaders: ISF/GLSL.

industry8 min read

Projection Mapping for Weddings — Create Unforgettable Moments

Transform your wedding venue with projection mapping. Ideas for ceremony, reception, and dance floor visuals. DIY guide with Ghost Arcade software.

Published March 15, 2026Updated March 28, 2026

Projection Mapping for Weddings

Wedding projection mapping creates stunning, one-of-a-kind visual experiences that transform any venue into a personalized wonderland.

Wedding Mapping Ideas

Ceremony

Projected floral patterns on walls behind the altar

Animated vines and greenery on bare venues

Custom monogram projections

Seasonal themes (falling leaves, snowflakes, cherry blossoms)

Reception

Venue transformation — turn a plain ballroom into a forest, galaxy, or garden

Table number projections

Dynamic centerpiece lighting

Guest name animations during introductions

Dance Floor

Reactive visuals that pulse with the music

Custom patterns that change with each song

The couple's monogram with animated effects

Color-changing ambient washes

Cake & Photo Opportunities

Projected patterns on the wedding cake

Photo booth backdrops with animated visuals

Guest book wall with projected prompts

DIY Wedding Mapping with Ghost Arcade

What you need:

Ghost Arcade (free demo or $24/mo Pro)

One projector (2,000-3,000 lumens for indoor reception)

Laptop with dedicated GPU

HDMI cable

Setup time: 1-2 hours before the event

Tip: Use Ghost Arcade' stage presets to save different looks for ceremony, cocktail hour, dinner, and dancing — switch between them with one click.

Download Ghost Arcade to start designing your wedding visuals.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does wedding projection mapping cost?

DIY wedding projection mapping with Ghost Arcade and a rented projector costs $200-500. Professional services range from $1,500-10,000 depending on scale and custom content creation.