Phoenix Wright: Courtroom Basics
Learn how to investigate, use the Court Record and challenge testimony in the original five-case adventure.
Investigate thoroughly
Examine suspicious areas, talk through available topics and move between locations. New evidence or conversations can unlock the next step.
Read the Court Record
Check evidence descriptions before presenting an item. Pay attention when an item is updated: a new detail may change what it proves.
Press for more detail
During cross-examination, press statements to question vague claims. New testimony can expose a detail that was missing from the original account.
Present a contradiction
Select the exact statement that conflicts with the evidence, then present the relevant item. Evidence must address that statement rather than simply seem suspicious.
Watch the penalty gauge
Incorrect evidence and certain wrong answers can bring penalties. Read prompts carefully and save before committing to an uncertain argument.
Revisit witnesses
If an investigation seems stuck, present relevant evidence to people you have already met. A new item can open a previously unavailable conversation.
Use the DS forensic tools
Rise from the Ashes adds hands-on investigation, including rotating objects to inspect them, searching for blood traces and examining fingerprints. Follow Ema’s instructions for each tool.
Keep the edition in mind
The original Japanese GBA game has four cases. The DS version adds Rise from the Ashes as episode five; this guide includes it.
References
Covered edition: The five-case Nintendo DS edition (2005), including Rise from the Ashes. The Japanese Game Boy Advance original (2001) contained four cases.