Phoenix Wright: Ace Attorney - Spirit of Justice (Nintendo 3DS) Preview

The demo opens with a voiced cut-scene telling all about the new land Phoenix Wright finds himself in, the kingdom of Khura'in. A country of Japanese influence with strong ties to mysticism and spirits, Phoenix soon finds himself in familiar territory when he jumps to the defence of his tour guide, who has been framed for theft and murder. Due to events that will likely be explored in the full game, Defence Attorneys are reviled in Khura'in, and Mr. Wright will soon find himself pressured from all sides, including the accused himself.

At this point, the series' staples come into play: a defence attorney, a prosecutor, and a judge in a court room, with Court Records, Testimonies to break apart, and evidence to present in abundance. All of it is lovingly presented with 3D art assets and whimsical, yet familiar musical tones, and plenty of Objection!s to go around.

The Khura'in Kingdom's law system throws in a few changes, however, with Divination Séances. These events, brought forward by the character of Priestess Rayfa, provide a short clip of the final few moments of a person's life, including the recently deceased.

Whilst such a major point of defence would be indisputable, it is up to Phoenix to contradict the events seen via the five human senses: touch, sound, sight, smell, and taste, against other evidence. Getting the hang of this new aspect ends the demo, but for a veteran of the series to do so requires a new way of approaching contradictions.