Getting Started
Everything you need to install Ghost Arcade, understand the interface, and create your first project. This guide walks through setup, core concepts, and the essential shortcuts that will speed up your workflow.
System Requirements
Ghost Arcade runs on modern Windows and macOS machines with a GPU that supports WebGL 2.0. For smooth performance at higher resolutions, a dedicated graphics card is strongly recommended.
- OS: Windows 10 or later, macOS 12 Monterey or later
- GPU: Any GPU with WebGL 2.0 support (integrated graphics work for basic use)
- RAM: 8 GB minimum recommended (16 GB for complex projects with 3D models and splats)
- Display: 1280 x 720 minimum; 1920 x 1080 or higher recommended
- Storage: ~200 MB for the application, plus space for your media assets
TIP To check WebGL 2.0 support, visit webglreport.com in your browser. Look for “WebGL 2.0” in the header.
Installation
Download
Download the latest installer for your platform from ghostarcade.live/download. Windows users will receive an .exe installer; macOS users will receive a .dmg disk image.
Run the Installer
- Windows: Double-click the installer and follow the prompts. If SmartScreen appears, click “More info” then “Run anyway” — the app is code-signed but may not yet be widely recognized.
- macOS: Open the
.dmgfile and drag Ghost Arcade into your Applications folder. On first launch, right-click the app and select “Open” to bypass Gatekeeper.
First Launch
On first launch the app opens with a blank canvas and a single empty layer. The interface may request permission to access your display list for multi-projector output — grant this to enable fullscreen projection on external displays.
Interface Overview
The interface is divided into five main areas. You can toggle the side panels with Tab to maximize canvas space during performance.
Main Canvas
The central viewport shows your composited output in real time. This is where you preview your layers, adjust warping, and see the final result before it hits your projector or recording.
Layer Panel (Left Sidebar)
The left sidebar lists all layers in your project. Layers render bottom-to-top — the top layer in the list draws on top of everything below it. From here you can add, reorder, rename, solo, mute, and delete layers. Each layer shows a thumbnail preview and its blend mode.
Properties Panel (Right Sidebar)
Select any layer to see its full set of controls on the right. The properties panel adapts to the selected layer type — shader layers expose ISF parameters and presets, media layers show playback controls, 3D model layers provide camera, lighting, and animation settings. Effects chains are managed here as well.
Toolbar
The top toolbar provides quick access to project actions: new project, save, undo/redo, mode switching (Mapping, VJ, Performer), and display output controls.
Output Controls
At the bottom of the interface you will find output resolution settings, FPS display, fullscreen output toggle, Spout sender controls, and the screen recording button. Use these to send your visuals to a projector, capture to video, or share via Spout to other applications.
Your First Project
Follow these steps to build a simple layered composition from scratch.
1. Add a Shader Layer
Click the + button in the layer panel and select ISF Shader. Browse the built-in shader library and choose one that catches your eye. The shader renders immediately on the canvas.
2. Adjust Parameters
With the shader layer selected, open the properties panel on the right. Each ISF shader exposes its own set of parameters — colors, speeds, scale, complexity. Drag sliders to see changes in real time. Use dropdowns to switch between presets and effect variations.
3. Add a Media Layer
Add another layer, this time choosing Media. Drag an image or video file onto the canvas, or use the file browser in the properties panel. Supported formats include PNG, JPG, GIF, MP4, MOV, and WebM.
4. Use Blend Modes
Select your media layer and change its blend mode in the layer panel. Try Add, Multiply, or Screen to see how the two layers interact. Adjust the layer opacity slider to dial in the mix.
5. Add Effects
In the properties panel, scroll to the Effects section and click+ Add Effect. Choose from 89+ effects across categories like blur, color, distortion, glitch, and feedback. Effects are chainable — drag to reorder them, and each effect has its own parameter controls.
TIP Save your project often with Ctrl+S (or Cmd+S on macOS). Projects save as .illv files that preserve all layers, effects, and settings.
Keyboard Shortcuts
These shortcuts work globally while the application window is focused. On macOS, substitute Cmd for Ctrl.
| Shortcut | Action |
|---|---|
Space | Play / pause media layers and timeline |
1 – 9 | Select layer by number |
Ctrl + S | Save project |
Ctrl + Z | Undo last action |
Ctrl + Shift + Z | Redo |
F11 | Toggle fullscreen output window |
Tab | Toggle side panels (maximize canvas) |
Delete / Backspace | Delete selected layer |
Ctrl + D | Duplicate selected layer |
Ctrl + N | New project |
NOTE In VJ Mode and Performer, the keyboard is remapped to clip triggering and preset keys. Global shortcuts like Ctrl+S and F11 still work in all modes.
Licensing
Free Beta
Ghost Arcade is currently in free beta. All core features — layers, effects, VJ mode, Performer, MIDI mapping, audio reactivity, projection mapping, recording, and Spout output — are available at no cost during the beta period.
Pro Tier
The Pro tier unlocks premium plugin packs including FluidGen (GPU-accelerated fluid simulation layers) and Particles3D (advanced 3D particle systems with physics). Pro features are being rolled out progressively throughout the beta.
Manage Your Account
View your license status, manage your subscription, and download invoices at ghostarcade.live/account. Your license key is tied to your account and can be activated on up to two machines simultaneously.
Next Steps
Now that you are up and running, explore the rest of the documentation to go deeper.