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{{Italic title}}
{{About|the media franchise}}
{{About|the media franchise}}
{{Infobox media franchise
{{copy edit|date=January 2013}}
|title = ''Ghost in the Shell''
{{Infobox animanga/Header
| name = Ghost in the Shell
|image =
|imagesize =
| image = [[File:Ghost in the Shell.jpg|230px]]
|caption =
| caption = Cover of Ghost in the Shell 2nd Edition released by Dark Horse
|creator = [[Masamune Shirow]]
| ja_kanji = 攻殻機動隊
|origin = [[Ghost in the Shell (manga)|''Ghost in the Shell'' (manga)]]
| ja_romaji = Kōkaku Kidōtai
*''Ghost in the Shell 2: Man-Machine Interface''
| genre = [[Cyberpunk]]
* ''Ghost in the Shell 1.5: Human-Error Processor''
|books =
*''Ghost in the Shell Continuty Script Story Board''
*''The Ghost in the Shell: Fuchikoma Papercraft''
*''My Favorite Ghost in the Shell: Stand Alone Complex''
*''Ghost in the Shell: Stand Alone Complex Official Log 1''
*''Ghost in the Shell: Stand Alone Complex: Tachikoma All Memory''
*''Ghost in the Shell: SAC Ultimate Archive''
*''Groundworks of Ghost in the Shell: Stand Alone Complex Art Book''
*''Innocence - World of Mamoru Oshii''
*''Innocence & Ghost in the Shell Complete Book''
*''Ghost in the Shell: S.A.C. 2nd GIG Visual Book''
*''Groundworks of Ghost in the Shell: S.A.C 2nd GIG Art Book''
*''Ghost in the Shell SAC - Solid State Society Visual Book''
|novels =
*''Ghost in the Shell: Burning City''
*''Ghost in the Shell 2: Star Seed''
*''Ghost in the Shell: Stand Alone Complex Graphic Novel 1: The Lost Memory''
*''Ghost in the Shell: Stand Alone Complex Graphic Novel 2: Revenge of the Cold Machines''
*''Ghost in the Shell: Stand Alone Complex Graphic Novel 3: White Maze''
*''Innocence: After the Long Goodbye''
|comics =
*''Ghost in the Shell: S.A.C. Tachikoma na Hibi''
*''Ghost in the Shell: Stand Alone Complex''
|films =
*[[Ghost in the Shell (film)|''Ghost in the Shell'' (film)]]
*''[[Ghost in the Shell 2: Innocence]]''
*''Ghost in the Shell: S.A.C. 2nd GIG – Individual Eleven''
*''[[Ghost in the Shell: Stand Alone Complex: Solid State Society]]''
|atv =
*''[[Ghost in the Shell: Stand Alone Complex]]''
*''[[Ghost in the Shell: S.A.C. 2nd GIG]]
*''[[Ghost in the Shell: Arise]]''
|vgs =
*[[Ghost in the Shell (video game)|''Ghost in the Shell'']]
*[[Ghost in the Shell: Stand Alone Complex (PS2)|''Ghost in the Shell: Stand Alone Complex'' (PS2)]]
*[[Ghost in the Shell: Stand Alone Complex (PSP)|''Ghost in the Shell: Stand Alone Complex'' (PSP)]]
*''Ghost in the Shell Online''
|radio =
|soundtracks =
*''Ghost in the Shell: Original Soundtrack''
*''Ghost in the Shell: Megatech Body''
*''Ghost in the Shell 2: Innocence O.S.T.''
|music = [[Music of Ghost in the Shell: Stand Alone Complex|Music of ''Ghost in the Shell: Stand Alone Complex'']]
|toys = Action figures
|otherlabel1 =
|otherdata1 =
}}
}}
{{Infobox animanga/Print
| type = manga
| author = [[Masamune Shirow]]
| publisher = [[Kodansha]]
| publisher_en = United States: [[Dark Horse Comics]] (former)<br />[[Kodansha Comics USA]] (current)<br />United Kingdom: [[Titan Books]]
| publisher_other = France: [[Dargaud]], [[Glénat (publisher)|Glénat]]<br />Germany: [[Feest comics]]<br />Italy: [[Star Comics (Italy)|Star Comics]]<br />Taiwan: [[Sharp Point Publishing]]<br />Poland: [[Japonica Polonica Fantastica|J.P.Fantastica]]
| demographic = ''[[Seinen manga|Seinen]]''
| magazine = [[Young Magazine]]
| first = May 1989
| last = November 1990
| volumes = 1
| volume_list =
}}
{{Infobox animanga/Print
| type = manga
| title = Ghost in the Shell 2: Man-Machine Interface
| author = Masamune Shirow
| publisher = Kodansha
| publisher_en = United States: Dark Horse Comics (former)<br />Kodansha Comics USA (current)<br />United Kingdom: Titan Books
| publisher_other = [[Planeta Agostini]]<br> [[Glénat (publisher)|Glénat]]<br> [[Egmont]]<br> J.P.Fantastica
| demographic = ''Seinen''
| magazine = Young Magazine
| first = September 1991
| last = August 1997
| volumes = 1
| volume_list =
}}
{{Infobox animanga/Print
| type = manga
| title = Ghost in the Shell 1.5: Human-Error Processor
| author = Masamune Shirow
| publisher = Kodansha
| publisher_en = United States: Dark Horse Comics (former)<br />Kodansha Comics USA (current)
| publisher_other = Spain: Planeta DeAgostini<br />Poland: J.P.Fantastica
| demographic = ''Seinen''
| magazine = Young Magazine
| published = July 23, 2003
| volumes = 1
| volume_list =
}}
{{Infobox animanga/Other
| title = Related
| content =
* ''[[Ghost in the Shell (film)|Ghost in the Shell]]'' (film)
** ''[[Ghost in the Shell 2: Innocence]]''
* ''[[Ghost in the Shell (video game)|Ghost in the Shell]]'' (video game)
* ''[[Ghost in the Shell: Stand Alone Complex]]''
** ''[[Ghost in the Shell: S.A.C. 2nd GIG|2nd GIG]]''
** ''[[Ghost in the Shell: Stand Alone Complex: Solid State Society|Solid State Society]]''
** ''[[Ghost in the Shell: Stand Alone Complex (PS2)|PS2 game]]''
** ''[[Ghost in the Shell: Stand Alone Complex (PSP)|PSP game]]''
}}
{{Infobox animanga/Footer}}


{{nihongo|'''''Ghost in the Shell'''''|攻殻機動隊|Kōkaku Kidōtai|literally "Mobile Armored Riot Police"}}, also known as ''The Ghost in the Shell'', is a Japanese [[seinen manga]] series written and illustrated by [[Masamune Shirow]]. The manga was serialized in ''[[Young Magazine]]'' and was followed by a sequel, {{nihongo|''Ghost in the Shell 2: Man-Machine Interface''|攻殻機動隊2|Kōkaku Kidōtai 2}} and a collection of manga chapters previously unreleased, titled {{nihongo|''Ghost in the Shell 1.5: Human-Error Processor''|攻殻機動隊1.5|Kōkaku Kidōtai 1.5}} serving as an interquel. Each series was later published as its own [[tankōbon]] volume by [[Kodansha]]. The plots feature a collection of scenarios featuring counter-terrorist organization [[Public Security Section 9]], of which the protagonist [[Motoko Kusanagi|Major Motoko Kusanagi]] belongs, in a futuristic Japan.
{{nihongo|'''''Ghost in the Shell'''''|攻殻機動隊|Kōkaku Kidōtai|literally "Mobile Armored Riot Police"}}, also known as ''The Ghost in the Shell'', is a Japanese [[seinen manga]] series written and illustrated by [[Masamune Shirow]]. The manga was serialized in ''[[Young Magazine]]'' and was followed by a sequel, {{nihongo|''Ghost in the Shell 2: Man-Machine Interface''|攻殻機動隊2|Kōkaku Kidōtai 2}} and a collection of manga chapters previously unreleased, titled {{nihongo|''Ghost in the Shell 1.5: Human-Error Processor''|攻殻機動隊1.5|Kōkaku Kidōtai 1.5}} serving as an interquel. Each series was later published as its own [[tankōbon]] volume by [[Kodansha]]. The plots feature a collection of scenarios featuring counter-terrorist organization [[Public Security Section 9]], of which the protagonist [[Motoko Kusanagi|Major Motoko Kusanagi]] belongs, in a futuristic Japan.


The series was first adapted into [[Ghost in the Shell (film)|a 1995 film]] by [[Production I.G.]] followed by a 2004 sequel, ''[[Ghost in the Shell 2: Innocence|Innocence]]''. An [[anime]] TV series ''[[Ghost in the Shell: Stand Alone Complex]]'' aired on [[Animax]] from 2002 to 2005; there were also several [[original video animation|OVAs]] based on the anime series. [[Video games]], [[soundtrack]]s, [[light novels]], [[art books]] and other merchandise have also been released. A new anime project set to launch in 2013, entitled ''Ghost in the Shell Arise'', has been announced.
The series was first adapted into [[Ghost in the Shell (film)|a 1995 film]] by [[Production I.G.]] followed by a 2004 sequel, ''[[Ghost in the Shell 2: Innocence|Innocence]]''. An [[anime]] TV series ''[[Ghost in the Shell: Stand Alone Complex]]'' aired on [[Animax]] from 2002 to 2005; there were also several [[original video animation|OVAs]] based on the anime series. [[Video games]], [[soundtrack]]s, [[light novels]], [[art books]] and other merchandise have also been released. A new anime project entitled ''[[Ghost in the Shell: Arise]]'' is set to launch in 2013.


==Setting==
==Setting==
{{main|World of Ghost in the Shell}}
{{main|World of Ghost in the Shell}}
{{seealso|Tachikoma|Seburo}}


''Ghost in the Shell'' as a [[media franchise]] consists of [[alternate universe]]s and different viewpoints of relative material due to the roles of different directors and writers who produced the media. ''Ghost in the Shell: Stand Alone Complex'' takes place in a parallel world compared to the original comic because it is based on the assumption that Motoko Kusanagi did not meet the Puppet Master in 2029.<ref name="ig1">{{cite web | url=http://www.productionig.com/contents/works_sp/39_/s08_/index.html | title=Into the Network: The Ghost in the Shell Universe | publisher=Production I.G | accessdate=January 08, 2013}}</ref>
Primarily set in the fictional Japanese city of New Port, the series follows the members of [[Public Security Section 9]], a special-operations task-force made up of former military officers and police detectives. Political intrigue and counter terrorism operations are standard fare for Section 9, but the various actions of corrupt officials, companies, and cyber-criminals in each scenario are unique and require the diverse skills of Section 9's staff to prevent a series of incidents from escalating, such as stopping a military tank with a mind of its own and preventing nuclear terrorism.

''Ghost in the Shell: Stand Alone Complex'' is set between the years 2030 and 2035 after [[World War III]], a [[nuclear war]] between the developed countries which changed the global balance of power, and a non-nuclear World War IV, which resulted in the collapse of Third World states. [[Civil war]]s and non-state revolutionary movements pose a constant security threat worldwide, and the millions of refugees displaced by the global tumult have become a [[Human migration|major problem]]. The advance of technology, particularly [[cyborg|cyberization]] technology and the internet, has also drastically increased the frequency of [[cyber-terrorism]]. The ability to ghost hack, the act of intruding into the brain of an individual, is one of the most heinous cyber crimes, and is used by individuals such as the [[Laughing Man (Ghost in the Shell)|Laughing Man]]. The distinction between human and machine intelligences blur as cyborgs, dolls and robots begin to coexist together.<ref>{{cite book |title=Ghost in the Shell|chapter=4.Megatech Machine 2&nbsp;– The Making of a Cyborg }}</ref>

Primarily set in the fictional Japanese city of New Port, the series follows the members of [[Public Security Section 9]], a special-operations task-force made up of former military officers and police detectives. Political intrigue and counter-terrorism operations are standard fare for Section 9, but the various actions of corrupt officials, companies, and cyber-criminals in each scenario are unique and require the diverse skills of Section 9's staff to prevent a series of incidents from escalating.


== Characters ==
== Characters ==
{{main|List of Ghost in the Shell characters}}
{{main|List of Ghost in the Shell characters}}

*{{nihongo|[[Motoko Kusanagi]]|草薙 素子|Major Kusanagi Motoko}} is the protagonist of the series. She is a [[cyborg]] employed as the squad leader of Public Security Section 9. Motoko's personality varies throughout the media, retaining seriousness in the TV and films, but showing a more humorous side in the manga.
*{{nihongo|[[Motoko Kusanagi]]|草薙 素子|Major Kusanagi Motoko}} is the protagonist of the series. She is a [[cyborg]] employed as the squad leader of Public Security Section 9. Motoko's personality varies throughout the media, retaining seriousness in the TV and films, but showing a more humorous side in the manga.
*{{nihongo|[[Batou]]|バトー|Batō}} is a member of Section 9, under the command of Motoko. His demeanor varies based on his portrayal in the media, most notably with a lack of emotion in the movie ''Innocence'' and a jokester in the manga.
*{{nihongo|[[Batou]]|バトー|Batō}} is a member of Section 9, under the command of Motoko. His demeanor varies based on his portrayal in the media, most notably with a lack of emotion in the movie ''Innocence'' and a jokester in the manga.
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{{main|Philosophy of Ghost in the Shell}}
{{main|Philosophy of Ghost in the Shell}}


The works of ''Ghost in the Shell'' serve as vehicles for social commentary and about humanity itself. With cybernization the boundary between human and machine is defined by a {{nihongo|"ghost"|ゴースト|gōsuto}} which is defined as an individual's consciousness. By integrating brain tissue with electronic circuitry, a cyberbrain is created. The ghost of the user is retained within the cyberbrain. Cyberbrains are commonplace in the ''Ghost in the Shell'' world, and such prevalence has led to scenarios involving sexuality, body swapping, copying and immortality. Political corruption and terrorists are a frequent antagonists of the franchise which allows for philosophical dialogue about concepts relating to morality, nationality and humanity.{{Citation needed|date=January 2013}} Ghost hacking, the act of taking control of another person's cyberbrain is a serious crime in the ''Ghost in the Shell'' universe. The victim is controlled by the hacker to commit any act including murder, and often the memories of the victim may be altered or deleted without the victim ever realizing it.{{Citation needed|date=January 2013}}
The works of ''Ghost in the Shell'' serve as vehicles for social commentary and about humanity itself. With cybernization the boundary between human and machine is defined by a {{nihongo|"ghost"|ゴースト|gōsuto}} which is defined as an individual's consciousness. By integrating brain tissue with electronic circuitry, a cyberbrain is created. The ghost of the user is retained within the cyberbrain. Cyberbrains are commonplace in the ''Ghost in the Shell'' world, and such prevalence has led to scenarios involving sexuality, body swapping, copying and immortality. Political corruption and terrorists are a frequent antagonists of the franchise which allows for philosophical dialogue about concepts relating to morality, nationality and humanity. Ghost hacking, the act of taking control of another person's cyberbrain is a serious crime in the ''Ghost in the Shell'' universe. The victim is controlled by the hacker to commit any act including murder, and often the memories of the victim may be altered or deleted without the victim ever realizing it.


==Series==
== Manga ==
{{Main|Ghost in the Shell (manga)}}


Written and illustrated by [[Masamune Shirow]], ''Ghost in the Shell'' ran from April 1989 to November 1990 in [[Kodansha]]'s manga anthology ''[[Young Magazine]]'', and was released in [[tankobon]] format on October 2, 1991.<ref name="GITS-KC">{{cite web |title= 攻殻機動隊(1) |url= http://kc.kodansha.co.jp/product/top.php/1234577897 |language= Japanese |publisher=[[Kodansha]] |accessdate=2012-10-13 }}</ref> [[Dark Horse Comics]] initially published it monthly into eight-issue series from March 1, 1995 to October 1, 1995 with the translation of [[Studio Proteus]].<ref name="GITS-1/8">{{cite web |title= GHOST IN THE SHELL #1 (OF 8) |url= http://www.darkhorse.com/Comics/93-818/Ghost-in-the-Shell-1-of-8 |publisher=[[Dark Horse Comics]] |accessdate=2012-10-12 }}</ref><ref name="GITS-8/8">{{cite web |title= GHOST IN THE SHELL #8 (OF 8) |url= http://www.darkhorse.com/Comics/94-125/Ghost-in-the-Shell-8-of-8 |publisher=[[Dark Horse Comics]] |accessdate=2012-10-12 }}</ref> It was later collected into a single volume in [[trade paperback]] format on early December 1, 1995.<ref name="GITS-manga-TPB">{{cite web |title= GHOST IN THE SHELL TPB |url= http://www.darkhorse.com/Books/44-818/Ghost-in-the-Shell-TPB |publisher=[[Dark Horse Comics]] |accessdate=2012-10-12 }}</ref> An uncensored version was later released by Dark Horse on October 6, 2004.<ref>{{cite web |title= GHOST IN THE SHELL 1 2ND EDITION TPB |url= http://www.darkhorse.com/Books/10-029/Ghost-in-the-Shell-Volume-1-2nd-edition-TPB |publisher=[[Dark Horse Comics]] |accessdate=2012-10-20 }}</ref> The manga was later republished by [[Kodansha Comics USA]] on October 13, 2009.<ref>{{cite web |title= Ghost in the Shell Volume 1 |url= http://www.randomhouse.com/book/166169/the-ghost-in-the-shell-volume-1-by-shirow-masamune/9781935429012/ |publisher=[[Kodansha Comics USA]] |accessdate=2012-10-31 }}</ref>
===Original series===
{{Main|Ghost in the Shell (manga)|Ghost in the Shell (video game)}}


Written and illustrated by [[Masamune Shirow]], ''Ghost in the Shell'' ran from April 1989 to November 1990 in [[Kodansha]]'s manga anthology Young Magazine, and was released in [[tankobon]] format on October 2, 1991.<ref name="GITS-KC">{{cite web |title= 攻殻機動隊(1) |url= http://kc.kodansha.co.jp/product/top.php/1234577897 |language= Japanese |publisher=[[Kodansha]] |accessdate=2012-10-13 }}</ref> The dates in the chapter titles are set up in DD-MM-YYYY format. Dark Horse initially published it monthly into 8 comic issues from March 1, 1995 to October 1, 1995 with the translation of [[Studio Proteus]].<ref name="GITS-1/8">{{cite web |title= GHOST IN THE SHELL #1 (OF 8) |url= http://www.darkhorse.com/Comics/93-818/Ghost-in-the-Shell-1-of-8 |publisher=[[Dark Horse Comics]] |accessdate=2012-10-12 }}</ref><ref name="ITS-8/8">{{cite web |title= GHOST IN THE SHELL #8 (OF 8) |url= http://www.darkhorse.com/Comics/94-125/Ghost-in-the-Shell-8-of-8 |publisher=[[Dark Horse Comics]] |accessdate=2012-10-12 }}</ref> It was later collected into a single volume in [[trade paperback]] format on early December 1, 1995.<ref name="GITS-manga-TPB">{{cite web |title= GHOST IN THE SHELL TPB |url= http://www.darkhorse.com/Books/44-818/Ghost-in-the-Shell-TPB |publisher=[[Dark Horse Comics]] |accessdate=2012-10-12 }}</ref> An uncensored version was later released by Dark Horse Comics on October 6, 2004.<ref>{{cite web |title= GHOST IN THE SHELL 1 2ND EDITION TPB |url= http://www.darkhorse.com/Books/10-029/Ghost-in-the-Shell-Volume-1-2nd-edition-TPB |publisher=[[Dark Horse Comics]] |accessdate=2012-10-20 }}</ref> The manga was later republished by [[Kodansha Comics USA]] on October 13, 2009.<ref>{{cite web |title= Ghost in the Shell Volume 1 |url= http://www.randomhouse.com/book/166169/the-ghost-in-the-shell-volume-1-by-shirow-masamune/9781935429012/ |publisher=[[Kodansha Comics USA]] |accessdate=2012-10-31 }}</ref>
Masamune Shirow created a sequel titled ''Ghost in the Shell 2: Man-Machine Interface''. The manga series ran in ''Young Magazine'' from September 1991 to August 1997 and was originally released in [[hardcover]] format along with the original manga in a limited edition box set titled {{Nihongo|''Kōkaku Kidōtai SOLID BOX''|攻殻機動隊SOLID BOX|Mobile Armored Riot Police Solid Box}} on December 1, 2000. The manga was then distributed in English by Dark Horse Comics as a 11-issue series from January 29, 2003 to December 31, 2003.<ref name="GITS2-1/11">{{cite web |title= GHOST IN THE SHELL 2: MAN-MACHINE INTERFACE #1 |url= http://www.darkhorse.com/Comics/12-117/Ghost-in-the-Shell-2-Man-Machine-Interface-1 |publisher=[[Dark Horse Comics]] |accessdate=2012-10-12 }}</ref><ref name="GITS2-11/11">{{cite web |title= GHOST IN THE SHELL 2: MAN-MACHINE INTERFACE #11 |url= http://www.darkhorse.com/Comics/12-127/Ghost-in-the-Shell-2-Man-Machine-Interface-11 |publisher=[[Dark Horse Comics]] |accessdate=2012-10-12 }}</ref> Masamune Shirow manually redrew the manga for the English version so that it could be read from left to right.<ref>{{cite web |title= Ghost in the Shell 2: Man-Machine Interface|url= http://www.icv2.com/articles/news/178.html |publisher= ICv2 |accessdate=2012-11-27}}</ref> It was later collected into a single volume in trade paperback format on January 12, 2005.<ref name="GITS2-TPB">{{cite web |title= GHOST IN THE SHELL VOLUME 2: MAN-MACHINE INTERFACE TPB |url= http://www.darkhorse.com/Books/13-288/Ghost-in-the-Shell-Volume-2-Man-Machine-Interface-TPB |publisher=[[Dark Horse Comics]] |accessdate=2012-10-12 }}</ref> The manga was later republished by Kodansha Comics USA on August 10, 2010.<ref>{{cite web |title= Ghost in the Shell Volume 2 |url= http://www.randomhouse.com/book/200115/the-ghost-in-the-shell-volume-2-by-shirow-masamune/9781935429036/ |publisher=[[Kodansha Comics USA]] |accessdate=2012-10-31 }}</ref>


Masamune Shirow created a sequel titled ''Ghost in the Shell 2: Man-Machine Interface''.The manga series ran in Young Magazine from September 1991 to August 1997 and was originally released in Hardcover format along with the original manga in a limited edition box set titled {{Nihongo|''Kōkaku Kidōtai SOLID BOX''|攻殻機動隊SOLID BOX|Mobile Armored Riot Police Solid Box}} on December 1, 2000. The manga was then distributed in English by Dark Horse Comics into 11 comic issues from January 29, 2003 to December 31, 2003.<ref name="GITS2-1/11">{{cite web |title= GHOST IN THE SHELL 2: MAN-MACHINE INTERFACE #1 |url= http://www.darkhorse.com/Comics/12-117/Ghost-in-the-Shell-2-Man-Machine-Interface-1 |publisher=[[Dark Horse Comics]] |accessdate=2012-10-12 }}</ref><ref name="GITS2-11/11">{{cite web |title= GHOST IN THE SHELL 2: MAN-MACHINE INTERFACE #11 |url= http://www.darkhorse.com/Comics/12-127/Ghost-in-the-Shell-2-Man-Machine-Interface-11 |publisher=[[Dark Horse Comics]] |accessdate=2012-10-12 }}</ref> Masamune Shirow manually redrew the manga for the English version so that it could be read from left to right.<ref>{{cite web |title= Ghost in the Shell 2: Man-Machine Interface|url= http://www.icv2.com/articles/news/178.html |publisher= ICv2 |accessdate=2012-11-27}}</ref> It was later collected into a single volume in trade paperback format on January 12, 2005.<ref name="GITS2-TPB">{{cite web |title= GHOST IN THE SHELL VOLUME 2: MAN-MACHINE INTERFACE TPB |url= http://www.darkhorse.com/Books/13-288/Ghost-in-the-Shell-Volume-2-Man-Machine-Interface-TPB |publisher=[[Dark Horse Comics]] |accessdate=2012-10-12 }}</ref> The manga was later republished by Kodansha Comics USA on August 10, 2010.<ref>{{cite web |title= Ghost in the Shell Volume 2 |url= http://www.randomhouse.com/book/200115/the-ghost-in-the-shell-volume-2-by-shirow-masamune/9781935429036/ |publisher=[[Kodansha Comics USA]] |accessdate=2012-10-31 }}</ref>
Four chapters that were not released in tankobon format from previous releases, were later collected into a single volume titled ''Ghost in the Shell 1.5: Human-Error Processor'' serving as an interquel. The manga was published in July 23, 2003 by Kodansha.<ref name="GITS1.5-KC">{{cite web |title= 攻殻機動隊1.5 |url= http://kc.kodansha.co.jp/product/top.php/1234588254 |language= Japanese |publisher=[[Kodansha]] |accessdate=2012-10-13 }}</ref> Dark Horse released it as an eight-issue series from November 1, 2006 to June 6, 2007 and was the first of the ''Ghost in the Shell'' manga released in the U.S. to read right-to-left.<ref name="GITS1.5-1/8">{{cite web |title= GHOST IN THE SHELL 1.5: HUMAN-ERROR PROCESSOR #1 |url= http://www.darkhorse.com/Comics/14-247/Ghost-in-the-Shell-1-5-Human-Error-Processor-1 |publisher=[[Dark Horse Comics]] |accessdate=2012-10-12 }}</ref><ref name="GITS1.5-8/8">{{cite web |title= GHOST IN THE SHELL 1.5: HUMAN-ERROR PROCESSOR #8 |url= http://www.darkhorse.com/Comics/14-254/Ghost-in-the-Shell-1-5-Human-Error-Processor-8 |publisher=[[Dark Horse Comics]] |accessdate=2012-10-12 }}</ref> The four original titles were each split into two each, to make up the eight in this series. It was later collected in a single volume in trade paperback format on October 10, 2007.<ref name="GITS1.5-TPB">{{cite web |title= GHOST IN THE SHELL 1.5: HUMAN-ERROR PROCESSOR TPB |url= http://www.darkhorse.com/Books/14-264/Ghost-in-the-Shell-1-5-Human-Error-Processor-TPB |publisher=[[Dark Horse Comics]] |accessdate=2012-10-12 }}</ref> The manga was later republished by Kodansha Comics USA on September 25, 2012.<ref>{{cite web |title= Ghost in the Shell 1.5 |url= http://www.randomhouse.com/book/213293/the-ghost-in-the-shell-15-by-shirow-masamune |publisher=[[Kodansha Comics USA]] |accessdate=2012-10-31 }}</ref>


A box set titled {{nihongo|''Kōkaku Kidōtai Cyberdelics''|攻殻機動隊Cyberdelics |Mobile Armored Riot Police Cyberdelics|}} was released on July 8, 1997. The box set contains a collection of posters illustrated by Masamune Shirow, a booklet and a puzzle.<ref>{{cite web |title= 攻殻機動隊 Cyberdelics |url= http://www.bookclub.kodansha.co.jp/bc2_bc/search_view.jsp?b=3363015 |language= Japanese |publisher=Kodansha |accessdate=2012-11-24}}</ref>
Four chapters that were not released in tankobon format from previous releases, were later collected into a single volume titled ''Ghost in the Shell 1.5: Human-Error Processor'' serving as an interquel. The manga was published in July 23, 2003 by Kodansha.<ref name="GITS1.5-KC">{{cite web |title= 攻殻機動隊1.5 |url= http://kc.kodansha.co.jp/product/top.php/1234588254 |language= Japanese |publisher=[[Kodansha]] |accessdate=2012-10-13 }}</ref> Dark Horse Comics announced an English version at the 2005 [[San Diego Comic-Con International|San Diego Comic-Con]].<ref>{{cite web |title= Dark Horse Comic-Con Announcements |url= http://www.animenewsnetwork.com/news/2005-07-14/dark-horse-comic-con-announcements |publisher = Anime News Network |accessdate=2012-10-29}}</ref> The series was released as eight individual comic issues from November 1, 2006 to June 6, 2007 and was the first of the ''Ghost in the Shell'' manga released in the U.S. to read right-to-left.<ref name="GITS1.5-1/8">{{cite web |title= GHOST IN THE SHELL 1.5: HUMAN-ERROR PROCESSOR #1 |url= http://www.darkhorse.com/Comics/14-247/Ghost-in-the-Shell-1-5-Human-Error-Processor-1 |publisher=[[Dark Horse Comics]] |accessdate=2012-10-12 }}</ref><ref name="GITS1.5-8/8">{{cite web |title= GHOST IN THE SHELL 1.5: HUMAN-ERROR PROCESSOR #8 |url= http://www.darkhorse.com/Comics/14-254/Ghost-in-the-Shell-1-5-Human-Error-Processor-8 |publisher=[[Dark Horse Comics]] |accessdate=2012-10-12 }}</ref> The four original titles were each split into two each, to make up the eight in this series. It was later collected in a single volume in trade paperback format on October 10, 2007.<ref name="GITS1.5-TPB">{{cite web |title= GHOST IN THE SHELL 1.5: HUMAN-ERROR PROCESSOR TPB |url= http://www.darkhorse.com/Books/14-264/Ghost-in-the-Shell-1-5-Human-Error-Processor-TPB |publisher=[[Dark Horse Comics]] |accessdate=2012-10-12 }}</ref> The manga was later republished by Kodansha Comics USA on September 25, 2012.<ref>{{cite web |title= Ghost in the Shell 1.5 |url= http://www.randomhouse.com/book/213293/the-ghost-in-the-shell-15-by-shirow-masamune |publisher=[[Kodansha Comics USA]] |accessdate=2012-10-31 }}</ref>


Four manga set in the ''Stand Alone Complex'' universe were written by Yu Kinutani and published by Random House Inc.<ref name="novels">{{cite web | url=http://www.randomhouse.com/author/144588/yu-kinutani?sort=best_13wk_3month | title=Yu Kinutani (Works) | publisher=Random House | accessdate=January 06, 2013}}</ref>
The [[PlayStation (console)|PlayStation]] game ''[[Ghost in the Shell (video game)|Ghost in the Shell]]'', inspired by the first film and based on the manga, was developed by Exact and released on July 17, 1997 in Japan by [[Sony Computer Entertainment]].<ref>{{cite web |title= 攻殻機動隊 GHOST IN THE SHELL|url= http://www.jp.playstation.com/software/title/scps10043.html| publisher=Sony Computer Entertainment |accessdate=2012-12-19}}</ref> It was distributed by [[THQ]] and released on November 3, 1997 in North America.<ref>{{cite web |title= Ghost in the Shell |url= http://www.ign.com/games/ghost-in-the-shell/ps-619| publisher=IGN |accessdate=2012-11-25}}</ref> A [[third-person shooter]], the game consists of run and gun and effortless wall-climbing to complete objectives and advance through the game. Players take on the role of an unnamed Section 9 member referred to as 'Rookie' who pilots a Fuchikoma robot to stop the Human Liberation Movement. While the gameplay exists in a three-dimensional rendered areas, animated cut-scenes are used to advance the plot between missions. In the game, the role of player was erroneously attributed to Motoko.<ref name="IGNerror">{{cite web | url=http://www.ign.com/games/ghost-in-the-shell/ps-619 | title=Ghost in the Shell | publisher=IGN | accessdate=January 4, 2013}}</ref> The soundtrack of the game was released as ''[[Ghost in the Shell: Megatech Body]]'' on July 17, 1997, by Sony Music Entertainment Japan.<ref name="CD1">{{cite web | url=http://www.sonymusic.co.jp/Music/Info/SonyTechno/feature/9707/cd.html | title=世界中で絶賛されている近未来SFコミックス「攻殻機動隊」のプレイステーション・ゲームのSound [Techno] Trax。 | publisher=Sony Music Entertainment Japan | accessdate=January 4, 2013}}</ref>


==Films==
A box set titled {{nihongo|''Kōkaku Kidōtai Cyberdelics''|攻殻機動隊Cyberdelics |Mobile Armored Riot Police Cyberdelics|}} was released on July 8, 1997. The box set contains a collection of posters illustrated by Masamune Shirow, a booklet and a puzzle.<ref>{{cite web |title= 攻殻機動隊 Cyberdelics |url= http://www.bookclub.kodansha.co.jp/bc2_bc/search_view.jsp?b=3363015 |language= Japanese |publisher=Kodansha |accessdate=2012-11-24}}</ref> An art book titled {{nihongo|''The Ghost in the Shell: Fuchikoma Papercraft''|攻殻機動隊フチコマ立体図鑑 |Kōkaku Kidōtai fuchikoma Rittai zukan |lit. "Mobile Armored Riot Police Fuchikoma three-dimensional picture book"}} was released by Kodansha on July 24, 2000. The book contains several different artwork and paper cut out figures of the Fuchikoma.<ref>{{cite web |title= 攻殻機動隊フチコマ立体図鑑 |url= http://www.bookclub.kodansha.co.jp/bc2_bc/search_view.jsp?b=3343170 |language= Japanese |publisher=Kodansha |accessdate=2012-11-12}}</ref>
{{main|Ghost in the Shell (film)}}


The manga was first adapted into a theatrical [[anime]] film in 1995, {{nihongo|''Ghost in the Shell''|GHOST IN THE SHELL/攻殻機動隊|Gōsuto In Za Sheru/Kōkaku Kidōtai|}}, directed by [[Mamoru Oshii]] and animated by [[Production I.G]]. The film portrays the events of Section 9 in its hunt to capture the hacker known as the [[Puppet Master (Ghost in the Shell)| Puppet Master]]. The film was updated in 2008 and re-released as ''Ghost in the Shell 2.0''; the majority of the changes involved updating the computer graphics and re-recording the sound in [[Surround sound|6.1 surround sound]]. The new version premiered on 12 July 2008 in Japan.<ref>{{cite web | url = http://www.animenewsnetwork.com/news/2008-06-08/ghost-in-the-shell-to-return-to-japanese-theaters| title = Ghost in the Shell to Return to Japanese Theaters | publisher = Anime News Network | accessdate = November 9, 2011 }}</ref>
===Film series===
{{main|Ghost in the Shell (film)|Ghost in the Shell 2: Innocence}}


{{main|Ghost in the Shell 2: Innocence}}
The manga was first adapted into a theatrical [[anime]] film in 1995, {{nihongo|''[[Ghost in the Shell (film)|Ghost in the Shell]]''|GHOST IN THE SHELL/攻殻機動隊|Gōsuto In Za Sheru/Kōkaku Kidōtai|}}, directed by [[Mamoru Oshii]] and animated by [[Production I.G]]. The film portrays the events of Section 9 in its hunt to capture the hacker known as the [[Puppet Master (Ghost in the Shell)|Puppet Master]]. The film was updated in 2008 and re-released as ''Ghost in the Shell 2.0''; the majority of the changes involved updating the computer graphics and re-recording the sound in [[Surround sound|6.1 surround sound]]. The new version premiered on 12 July 2008 in Japan.<ref>{{cite web | url = http://www.animenewsnetwork.com/news/2008-06-08/ghost-in-the-shell-to-return-to-japanese-theaters| title = Ghost in the Shell to Return to Japanese Theaters | publisher = Anime News Network | accessdate = November 9, 2011 }}</ref>


The film was followed by a sequel, also directed by Oshii, ''[[Ghost in the Shell 2: Innocence]]'' ({{Nihongo|''Innocence''|イノセンス}} in Japan). Produced in 2004, it places the character of Batou in the lead role in an investigation of a cyborg-corporation called LOCUS SOLUS whose sex dolls malfunction and go on a killing spree. A novel titled, {{nihongo|'''''Ghost in the Shell 2: Innocence: After the Long Goodbye'''''| イノセンス After the Long Goodbye|}} by [[Masaki Yamada]] serves as a prequel for the film ''Innocence''. The story is written from Batou's perspective as he surrounds his search for his dog Gabriel (Gabu). It was published by [[Tokuma Shoten]] and released on February 29, 2004.<ref>{{Cite web| title = イノセンス After the Long Goodbye | url = http://www.tokuma.jp/bunko/dual-bunko/1176094619066 | publisher = Tokuma Shoten | language = Japanese | accessdate = 11-25-12 }}</ref> It was later published by [[Viz Media]] in the US and released on October 2005.<ref>{{Cite web| title = Ghost in the Shell 2: Innocence (Novel-Hard cover)| url = http://www.viz.com/product?id=5337 | publisher = Viz Media| accessdate = 11-25-12 }}</ref> Viz media later released a four-volume Ani-manga boxset on April 2005.<ref>{{Cite web| title = Ghost in the Shell 2: Innocence Ani-Manga| url = http://www.icv2.com/articles/news/6555.html | publisher = ICv2| accessdate = 11-27-12 }}</ref>
The film was followed by a sequel, also directed by Oshii, ''Ghost in the Shell 2: Innocence'' ({{Nihongo|''Innocence''|イノセンス}} in Japan). Produced in 2004, it places the character of Batou in the lead role in an investigation of a cyborg-corporation called LOCUS SOLUS whose sex dolls malfunction and go on a killing spree.


===''Stand Alone Complex'' series===
{{main|Ghost in the Shell: Stand Alone Complex: Solid State Society}}
{{main|Ghost in the Shell: Stand Alone Complex|Ghost in the Shell: S.A.C. 2nd GIG|Ghost in the Shell: Stand Alone Complex: Solid State Society}}


The series has been adapted into an anime series titled ''[[Ghost in the Shell: Stand Alone Complex]]'' with a total of two seasons and one TV film. The series was written and directed by [[Kenji Kamiyama]] and produced by [[Production I.G]], airing on [[Animax]] from 1 October 2002 to 25 March 2003 with a total of 26 episodes. The second season titled ''[[Ghost in the Shell: S.A.C. 2nd GIG]]'' was also written and directed by [[Kenji Kamiyama]] and produced by [[Production I.G.]] ''2nd GIG'' aired on [[Animax]] from 1 January 2004 to 8 January 2005, with a total of 26 episodes.<ref name="ProductionIGSACcredits">{{cite web|url=http://www.productionig.com/contents/works_sp/03_/s03_/index.html|title=Staff & Cast |work= Production I.G|accessdate=09-02-2010|archiveurl=http://www.webcitation.org/5sPh9lvJ5|archivedate=09-02-2011}}</ref> The anime TV series was adapted into OVAs,<ref>{{cite web | url = http://www.jbook.co.jp/p/p.aspx/4044738/s/ | title = 攻殻機動隊 STAND ALONE COMPLEX The Laughing Man(Blu-ray) | language = Japanese | publisher = Jbook | accessdate = 2012-02-13}}</ref> novels,<ref>{{cite web | url = http://www.tokuma.jp/bunko/dual-bunko/1176094616484 | title = 攻殻機動隊 虚夢回路 | publisher = [[Tokuma Shoten]] | language = Japanese | accessdate = 2011-11-06}}</ref> manga,<ref name="ANN-manga">{{cite web|url= http://www.animenewsnetwork.com/news/2009-11-07/ghost-in-the-shell/sac-to-launch-2-new-manga-in-japan |title= Ghost in the Shell: SAC to Spawn 2 New Manga in Japan (Updated) |publisher=Anime News Network|date=November 7, 2009|accessdate=2011-11-04}}</ref> and video games<ref>{{cite web | url = http://www.ign.com/games/ghost-in-the-shell-stand-alone-complex-14295980/ps2-640416| title = Ghost in the Shell: Stand Alone Complex | publisher = IGN | accessdate = 2012-12-19}}</ref> as well.
The ''Ghost in the Shell: Stand Alone Complex'' TV series was later followed by a OVA/film sequel, ''Ghost in the Shell: Stand Alone Complex: Solid State Society''. Directed by [[Kenji Kamiyama]] and premiered on the [[SKY Perfect]] satellite television network on September 1, 2006 as a TV movie,<ref>{{cite web |title=Ghost in the Shell: Stand Alone Complex Solid State Society Overview|url=http://www.productionig.com/contents/raworks_sp/39_/s08_/index.html|publisher=[[Production I.G]]|accessdate=November 8, 2011 |date=November 24, 2006}}</ref> it was also aired as part of the [[SyFy|SyFy Channel]]'s [[Ani-Monday]] programming block.<ref>{{cite web | url = http://www.nbcumv.com/mediavillage/networks/syfy/animonday | title = Ani-Monday HOME | accessdate = 2012-01-23 | publisher = [[NBC Universal]] }}</ref> ''Solid State Society'' was later remade in [[3D film|3D]] and released at Tokyo's Shinjuku Wald 9 theater on March 25, 2011.<ref>{{cite web | url = http://www.animenews.biz/ghost-in-the-shell-solid-state-society-3d-screening-in-march-2011-5445/ | title = Ghost in the Shell Solid State Society 3D Screening in March 2011 | accessdate = 2012-01-23 | last = Saabedra | first = Humberto | date = 2010-11-22 | work = AnimeNews.biz}}</ref>


As of 2008, [[DreamWorks]] have acquired the rights to produce a [[live-action]] film adaptation of the original manga with [[Steven Spielberg]]. [[Avi Arad]] and Steven Paul are confirmed producers; Jamie Moss was originally hired to adapt the manga into a screenplay<ref>{{cite news | url = http://www.variety.com/article/VR1117984029?refCatId=13| title = DreamWorks to make 'Ghost' in 3-D | publisher = Variety.com | accessdate = November 9, 2011 | first1=Tatiana | last1=Siegel | first2=Michael | last2=Fleming | date=April 14, 2008}}</ref> but in October 2009 it was announced that [[Laeta Kalogridis]] had replaced Moss as writer.<ref>{{cite news | url = http://www.variety.com/article/VR1118010309?refCatId=13| title = Kalogridis to adapt 'Ghost in the Shell' | publisher = Variety.com | accessdate = November 9, 2011 | first=Tatiana | last=Siegel | date=October 22, 2009}}</ref>
The ''Ghost in the Shell: Stand Alone Complex'' TV series was later followed by an OVA/film sequel, ''[[Ghost in the Shell: Stand Alone Complex: Solid State Society]]''. Directed by [[Kenji Kamiyama]] and premiered on the [[SKY Perfect]] satellite television network on September 1, 2006 as a TV movie,<ref>{{cite web |title=Ghost in the Shell: Stand Alone Complex Solid State Society Overview|url=http://www.productionig.com/contents/raworks_sp/39_/s08_/index.html|publisher=[[Production I.G]]|accessdate=November 8, 2011 |date=November 24, 2006}}</ref> it was also aired as part of the [[SyFy|SyFy Channel]]'s [[Ani-Monday]] programming block.<ref>{{cite web | url = http://www.nbcumv.com/mediavillage/networks/syfy/animonday | title = Ani-Monday HOME | accessdate = 2012-01-23 | publisher = [[NBC Universal]] }}</ref> ''Solid State Society'' was later remade in [[3D film|3D]] and released at Tokyo's Shinjuku Wald 9 theater on March 25, 2011.<ref>{{cite web | url = http://www.animenews.biz/ghost-in-the-shell-solid-state-society-3d-screening-in-march-2011-5445/ | title = Ghost in the Shell Solid State Society 3D Screening in March 2011 | accessdate = 2012-01-23 | last = Saabedra | first = Humberto | date = 2010-11-22 | work = AnimeNews.biz}}</ref>


==Anime series==
Several adaptations and spin offs based on the Stand Alone Complex were released. A three-novel series was written and illustrated by Junichi Fujisaku who was one of the screenplay writers of the anime TV series. The novels were published by [[Dark Horse Comics]]. ''Ghost in the Shell: Stand Alone Complex Graphic Novel 1: The Lost Memory'' was released on April 26, 2006. ''Ghost in the Shell: Stand Alone Complex Graphic Novel 2: Revenge of the Cold Machines'' was released on September 16, 2006. ''Ghost in the Shell: Stand Alone Complex Graphic Novel 3: White Maze'' was released on November 8, 2006.
{{main|Ghost in the Shell: Stand Alone Complex|Ghost in the Shell: S.A.C. 2nd GIG}}


The series has been adapted into an anime series titled ''Ghost in the Shell: Stand Alone Complex'' with a total of two seasons and one TV film. The series was written and directed by [[Kenji Kamiyama]] and produced by [[Production I.G]], airing on [[Animax]] from 1 October 2002 to 25 March 2003 with a total of 26 episodes. The second season titled ''[[Ghost in the Shell: S.A.C. 2nd GIG]]'' was also written and directed by [[Kenji Kamiyama]] and produced by [[Production I.G.]] ''2nd GIG'' aired on [[Animax]] from 1 January 2004 to 8 January 2005, with a total of 26 episodes.<ref name="ProductionIGSACcredits">{{cite web|url=http://www.productionig.com/contents/works_sp/03_/s03_/index.html|title=Staff & Cast |work= Production I.G|accessdate=09-02-2010|archiveurl=http://www.webcitation.org/5sPh9lvJ5|archivedate=09-02-2011}}</ref> The anime TV series was adapted into OVAs,<ref>{{cite web | url = http://www.jbook.co.jp/p/p.aspx/4044738/s/ | title = 攻殻機動隊 STAND ALONE COMPLEX The Laughing Man(Blu-ray) | language = Japanese | publisher = Jbook | accessdate = 2012-02-13}}</ref> novels,<ref>{{cite web | url = http://www.tokuma.jp/bunko/dual-bunko/1176094616484 | title = 攻殻機動隊 虚夢回路 | publisher = [[Tokuma Shoten]] | language = Japanese | accessdate = 2011-11-06}}</ref> manga,<ref name="ANN-manga">{{cite web|url= http://www.animenewsnetwork.com/news/2009-11-07/ghost-in-the-shell/sac-to-launch-2-new-manga-in-japan |title= Ghost in the Shell: SAC to Spawn 2 New Manga in Japan (Updated) |publisher=Anime News Network|date=November 7, 2009|accessdate=2011-11-04}}</ref> and video games<ref>{{cite web | url = http://www.ign.com/games/ghost-in-the-shell-stand-alone-complex-14295980/ps2-640416| title = Ghost in the Shell: Stand Alone Complex | publisher = IGN | accessdate = 2012-12-19}}</ref> as well.
The [[PlayStation 2]] game ''Ghost in the Shell: Stand Alone Complex'', produced by Sony Computer Entertainment and developed by [[SCE Japan Studio]] and [[Cavia (company)|Cavia]], was released to the United States on November 8, 2004.<ref name="vg2">{{cite web | url=http://www.ign.com/games/ghost-in-the-shell-stand-alone-complex-14295980/ps2-640416 | title=Ghost in the Shell: Stand Alone Complex | publisher=IGN | accessdate=January 4, 2013}}</ref> The game is partly based on the events of the TV anime ''Ghost in the Shell: Stand Alone Complex''. The player takes control of Motoko and Batou, to stop a terrorist organization. A [[PlayStation Portable]] (PSP) game also titled ''Ghost in the Shell: Stand Alone Complex'' was released to the United States on October 25, 2005, produced by Sony Computer Entertainment and developed by G-artists.<ref name="vg3">{{cite web | url=http://www.ign.com/games/ghost-in-the-shell-stand-alone-complex/psp-696079 | title=Ghost in the Shell: Stand Alone Complex | publisher=IGN | accessdate=January 4, 2013}}</ref> This game is a [[first-person shooter]] (FPS) in which the player takes control of Section 9 members over various mission and is a sequel to the PlayStation 2 game ''Ghost in the Shell: Stand Alone Complex''. It is an original story that uses the ''Stand Alone Complex'' timeline.<ref>{{cite web | url=http://www.siliconera.com/ghost-in-the-shell-stand-alone-complex-interview/ | title=Ghost in the Shell Stand Alone Complex interview | publisher=Siliconera | accessdate=January 8, 2013}}</ref> On December 13, 2012, Nexon stated it had obtained the rights of ''Ghost in the Shell: Stand Alone Complex'' for the purpose of the creation of a [[massively multiplayer online game]].<ref name="GitS Online Ref1" group="">{{cite web|first=Ishaan|title=Ghost in the Shell: Stand Alone Complex Online Game Coming From Nexon|url=http://www.siliconera.com/2012/12/13/ghost-in-the-shell-stand-alone-complex-online-game-coming-from-nexon/|work=Siliconera|publisher=Ishaan|accessdate=20 February 2013}}</ref> On February 12, 2013, the first details were released through Online Gamer Japan. Titled ''Ghost in the Shell Online'' with the possibility of a different name to come at a later point, the game will be an FPS with a heavy basis on customization of a cyberized body and hacking.<ref name="GitS Online Ref2">{{cite web|first=Ishaan|title=Ghost in the Shell Online Game Is An FPS With A Focus On Hacking|url=http://www.siliconera.com/2013/02/12/ghost-in-the-shell-online-game-is-an-fps-with-a-focus-on-hacking/|work=Siliconera|publisher=Siliconera|accessdate=20 February 2013}}</ref>


{{main|Ghost in the Shell: Arise}}
Other Merchandise has been released. Numerous figurines have been released for ''Ghost in the Shell'', primarily around the ''Stand Alone Complex'' versions of the characters with Motoko and Tachikoma being a central focus. Various figures have been produced from CM Corporation,<ref name="fig1">{{cite web | url=http://www.1999.co.jp/eng/10191437 | title=Gutto kuru Figure Collection Kusanagi Motoko (PVC Figure) | accessdate=January 6, 2013}}</ref> and Kaitendo.<ref name="fig2">{{cite web | url=http://www.1999.co.jp/eng/10144388 | title=Ghost in the shell Stand Alone Complex Kusanagi Motoko (PVC Figure) | accessdate=January 6, 2013}}</ref> Tachikoma figures have been produced by various companies, including one by the Good Smile Company in cooperation with Nendoron.<ref name="GSC">{{cite web | url=http://www.goodsmile.info/product/en/618/Nendoroid+Tachikoma.html | title=Nendoroid Tachikoma | publisher=Good Smile Company | accessdate=January 6, 2013}}</ref> A 1/24th scale [[plastic model]] kit of the Tachikoma was produced by Wave in December 2005.<ref name="model1">{{cite web | url=http://www.1999.co.jp/eng/10045549 | title=Tachikoma (Plastic model) | accessdate=January 6, 2013}}</ref> Other merchandise includes clothing, key chains, notebooks, patches, bags, posters and body pillows.<ref name="Gk">{{cite web | url=http://www.gkworld.com/category/genre.anime_miscellaneous.ghost_in_the_shell/ | title=Ghost in the Shell Store : Merchandise | publisher=GKWorld | accessdate=January 6, 2013}}</ref>


===''Arise'' series===
A new anime series titled ''Ghost in the Shell Arise'' was announced on January 15, 2013. Like all other animated features of the franchise, it will be produced by Production I.G, now with Kazuchika Kise as chief director and [[Tow Ubukata]] as head writer. A special presentation with further details was streamed live worldwide on February 12 on Niconico, Bandai Channel and YouTube.<ref name="Arise">{{cite web|url= http://www.animenewsnetwork.com/news/2013-01-15/ghost-in-the-shell-arise-anime-to-launch-in-2013 |title= Ghost in the Shell Arise Anime to Launch in 2013 |publisher=Anime News Network|date=January 15, 2013|accessdate=2013-01-15}}</ref> The series has been confirmed to be a prequel series and will release the first part in theaters on July 22, 2013.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.animenewsnetwork.com/news/2013-02-12/ghost-in-the-shell/arise-anime-details-outlined |title= Ghost in the Shell Arise Anime's Details Outlined (Update 3)|publisher=Anime News Network|date=February 19, 2013|accessdate=2013-02-19}}</ref>
A new anime series titled ''Ghost in the Shell Arise'' was announced on January 15, 2013. Like all other animated features of the franchise, it will be produced by Production I.G, now with Kazuchika Kise as chief director and [[Tow Ubukata]] as head writer. A special presentation with further details was streamed live worldwide on February 12 on Niconico, Bandai Channel and YouTube.<ref name="Arise">{{cite web|url= http://www.animenewsnetwork.com/news/2013-01-15/ghost-in-the-shell-arise-anime-to-launch-in-2013 |title= Ghost in the Shell Arise Anime to Launch in 2013 |publisher=Anime News Network|date=January 15, 2013|accessdate=2013-01-15}}</ref> The series has been confirmed to be a prequel series and will release the first part in theaters on July 22, 2013.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.animenewsnetwork.com/news/2013-02-12/ghost-in-the-shell/arise-anime-details-outlined |title= Ghost in the Shell Arise Anime's Details Outlined (Update 3)|publisher=Anime News Network|date=February 19, 2013|accessdate=2013-02-19}}</ref>


=== Other ===
== Video games ==
{{main|Ghost in the Shell (video game)}}
As of 2008, [[DreamWorks]] have acquired the rights to produce a [[live-action]] film adaptation of the original manga with [[Steven Spielberg]]. [[Avi Arad]] and Steven Paul are confirmed producers; Jamie Moss was originally hired to adapt the manga into a screenplay<ref>{{cite news | url = http://www.variety.com/article/VR1117984029?refCatId=13| title = DreamWorks to make 'Ghost' in 3-D | publisher = Variety.com | accessdate = November 9, 2011 | first1=Tatiana | last1=Siegel | first2=Michael | last2=Fleming | date=April 14, 2008}}</ref> but in October 2009 it was announced that [[Laeta Kalogridis]] had replaced Moss as writer.<ref>{{cite news | url = http://www.variety.com/article/VR1118010309?refCatId=13| title = Kalogridis to adapt 'Ghost in the Shell' | publisher = Variety.com | accessdate = November 9, 2011 | first=Tatiana | last=Siegel | date=October 22, 2009}}</ref>


The [[PlayStation (console)|PlayStation]] [[third-person shooter]] game ''Ghost in the Shell'', loosely based on the first film and the manga, was developed by Exact and released on July 17, 1997 in Japan by [[Sony Computer Entertainment]].<ref>{{cite web |title= 攻殻機動隊 GHOST IN THE SHELL|url= http://www.jp.playstation.com/software/title/scps10043.html| publisher=Sony Computer Entertainment |accessdate=2012-12-19}}</ref> It was distributed by [[THQ]] and released on November 3, 1997 in North America.<ref>{{cite web |title= Ghost in the Shell |url= http://www.ign.com/games/ghost-in-the-shell/ps-619| publisher=IGN |accessdate=2012-11-25}}</ref> Players take on the role of an unnamed Section 9 member referred to as 'Rookie' who pilots a Fuchikoma robot to stop the Human Liberation Movement.
==Reception==
The manga of ''Ghost in the Shell'' had received mainly positive reviews. The sequel to the manga, ''Ghost in the Shell 2: Man-Machine Interface'' has sold over 100,000 copies from its initial printing in Japan.<ref name="GITS2-interview">{{cite web |title= Ghost in the Shell 2--The Dark Horse Interview |url= http://www.icv2.com/articles/news/1764.html|publisher=ICv2 |accessdate=2012-11-29}}</ref> ''Ghost in the Shell 1.5: Human-Error Processor'' was ranked #10 in ''[[The New York Times]]''{{'}}s Manga Best Seller List on October 19, 2012.<ref>{{cite web | url = http://www.animenewsnetwork.com/news/2012-10-19/new-york-times-manga-best-seller-list-october-7-13 | title = New York Times Manga Best Seller List, October 7-13| accessdate = 2012-10-30 | work = Anime News Network}}</ref>


{{main|Ghost in the Shell: Stand Alone Complex (PS2)|Ghost in the Shell: Stand Alone Complex (PSP)}}
===Impact and influence===

The [[PlayStation 2]] game ''Ghost in the Shell: Stand Alone Complex'', produced by Sony Computer Entertainment and developed by [[SCE Japan Studio]] and [[Cavia (company)|Cavia]], was released to the United States on November 8, 2004.<ref name="vg2">{{cite web | url=http://www.ign.com/games/ghost-in-the-shell-stand-alone-complex-14295980/ps2-640416 | title=Ghost in the Shell: Stand Alone Complex | publisher=IGN | accessdate=January 04, 2013}}</ref> The game is partly based on the events of the TV anime ''Ghost in the Shell: Stand Alone Complex''. The player takes control of Motoko and Batou, to stop a terrorist organization. A [[PlayStation Portable]] (PSP) game also titled ''Ghost in the Shell: Stand Alone Complex'' was released to the United States on October 25, 2005, produced by Sony Computer Entertainment and developed by G-artists.<ref name="vg3">{{cite web | url=http://www.ign.com/games/ghost-in-the-shell-stand-alone-complex/psp-696079 | title=Ghost in the Shell: Stand Alone Complex | publisher=IGN | accessdate=January 04, 2013}}</ref> This game is a [[first-person shooter]] in which the player takes control of Section 9 members over various mission and is a sequel to the PlayStation 2 game ''Ghost in the Shell: Stand Alone Complex''. It is an original story that uses the ''Stand Alone Complex'' timeline.<ref>{{cite web | url=http://www.siliconera.com/ghost-in-the-shell-stand-alone-complex-interview/ | title=Ghost in the Shell Stand Alone Complex interview | publisher=Siliconera | accessdate=January 08, 2013}}</ref>

On December 13, 2012, Nexon stated it had obtained the rights of ''Ghost in the Shell: Stand Alone Complex'' for the purpose of the creation of a [[massively multiplayer online game]].<ref name="GitS Online Ref1" group="">{{cite web|first=Ishaan|title=Ghost in the Shell: Stand Alone Complex Online Game Coming From Nexon|url=http://www.siliconera.com/2012/12/13/ghost-in-the-shell-stand-alone-complex-online-game-coming-from-nexon/|work=Siliconera|publisher=Ishaan|accessdate=20 February 2013}}</ref> On February 12, 2013, the first details were released through Online Gamer Japan. Titled ''Ghost in the Shell Online'' with the possibility of a different name to come at a later point, the game will be an FPS with a heavy basis on customization of a cyberized body and hacking.<ref name="GitS Online Ref2">{{cite web|first=Ishaan|title=Ghost in the Shell Online Game Is An FPS With A Focus On Hacking|url=http://www.siliconera.com/2013/02/12/ghost-in-the-shell-online-game-is-an-fps-with-a-focus-on-hacking/|work=Siliconera|publisher=Siliconera|accessdate=20 February 2013}}</ref>

== Novels ==
Three novels were written and illustrated by Junichi Fujisaku who was one of the screenplay writers of the anime TV series. The novels were published by [[Dark Horse Comics]]. ''Ghost in the Shell: Stand Alone Complex Graphic Novel 1: The Lost Memory'' was released on April 26, 2006. ''Ghost in the Shell: Stand Alone Complex Graphic Novel 2: Revenge of the Cold Machines'' was released on September 16, 2006. ''Ghost in the Shell: Stand Alone Complex Graphic Novel 3: White Maze'' was released on November 08, 2006.

The novel {{nihongo|''Innocence: After the Long Goodbye''| イノセンス After the Long Goodbye|}} by [[Masaki Yamada]] serves as a prequel for ''Innocence''. The story is written from Batou's perspective as he surrounds his search for his dog Gabriel (Gabu). It was published by [[Tokuma Shoten]] and released on February 29, 2004.<ref>{{Cite web| title = イノセンス After the Long Goodbye | url = http://www.tokuma.jp/bunko/dual-bunko/1176094619066 | publisher = Tokuma Shoten | language = Japanese | accessdate = 11-25-12 }}</ref> It was later published by [[Viz Media]] in the United States and released on October 2005.<ref>{{Cite web| title = Ghost in the Shell 2: Innocence (Novel-Hard cover)| url = http://www.viz.com/product?id=5337 | publisher = Viz Media| accessdate = 11-25-12 }}</ref> Viz Media later released a four-volume ani-manga boxset on April 2005.<ref>{{Cite web| title = Ghost in the Shell 2: Innocence Ani-Manga| url = http://www.icv2.com/articles/news/6555.html | publisher = ICv2| accessdate = 11-27-12 }}</ref>

==Music==
{{expand section|date=March 2013}}

The soundtrack for the PlayStation game was released by [[Sony Music Entertainment Japan]] as ''Ghost in the Shell: Megatech Body'' in 1997.<ref name="CD1">{{cite web | url=http://www.sonymusic.co.jp/Music/Info/SonyTechno/feature/9707/cd.html | title=世界中で絶賛されている近未来SFコミックス「攻殻機動隊」のプレイステーション・ゲームのSound [Techno] Trax。 | publisher=Sony Music Entertainment Japan | accessdate=January 04, 2013}}</ref>

== Art books ==
{{expand section|date=March 2013}}

A number of artbooks detailing the concept art and world of ''Ghost in the Shell'' have been released. An art book titled {{nihongo|''The Ghost in the Shell: Fuchikoma Papercraft''|攻殻機動隊フチコマ立体図鑑 |Kōkaku Kidōtai fuchikoma Rittai zukan |lit. "Mobile Armored Riot Police Fuchikoma three-dimensional picture book"}} was released by Kodansha on July 24, 2000. The book contains several different artwork and paper cut out figures of the Fuchikoma.<ref>{{cite web |title= 攻殻機動隊フチコマ立体図鑑 |url= http://www.bookclub.kodansha.co.jp/bc2_bc/search_view.jsp?b=3343170 |language= Japanese |publisher=Kodansha |accessdate=2012-11-12}}</ref>

==Merchandise==
Numerous statuettes and action figures have been released for ''Ghost in the Shell'', primarily around the ''Stand Alone Complex'' versions of the characters with Motoko and Tachikoma being a central focus. Various figures have been produced from CM Corporation,<ref name="fig1">{{cite web | url=http://www.1999.co.jp/eng/10191437 | title=Gutto kuru Figure Collection Kusanagi Motoko (PVC Figure) | accessdate=January 06, 2013}}</ref> and Kaitendo.<ref name="fig2">{{cite web | url=http://www.1999.co.jp/eng/10144388 | title=Ghost in the shell Stand Alone Complex Kusanagi Motoko (PVC Figure) | accessdate=January 06, 2013}}</ref> Tachikoma figures have been produced by various companies, including one by the Good Smile Company in cooperation with Nendoron.<ref name="GSC">{{cite web | url=http://www.goodsmile.info/product/en/618/Nendoroid+Tachikoma.html | title=Nendoroid Tachikoma | publisher=Good Smile Company | accessdate=January 06, 2013}}</ref> Other merchandise includes clothing, key chains, notebooks, patches, bags, posters and body pillows.<ref name="Gk">{{cite web | url=http://www.gkworld.com/category/genre.anime_miscellaneous.ghost_in_the_shell/ | title=Ghost in the Shell Store : Merchandise | publisher=GKWorld | accessdate=January 06, 2013}}</ref>

==Impact and influence==
[[The Wachowskis]], makers of ''[[The Matrix (series)|The Matrix]]'' trilogy, have stated that the first ''Ghost in the Shell'' film by Mamoru Oshii, influenced their work.<ref>[http://www.warnervideo.com/matrixevents/wachowski.html WarnerVideo.com], Interview with the Wachowski siblings, [[Warner Brothers Studios]], Official Website.</ref> They showed the ''Ghost in the Shell'' to producer [[Joel Silver]] to indicate the style and look they wanted for ''The Matrix''. [[James Cameron]] and [[Quentin Tarantino]] have also acknowledged the influence of ''Ghost in the Shell'''s rococo plots and stylized visuals.<ref>{{cite news | url = http://www.wired.com/wired/archive/12.09/anime.html| title = The Giants of Anime are Coming | publisher = Wired | accessdate = November 29, 2012 | first=Charles | last=Mann | date=September 2004}}</ref>
[[The Wachowskis]], makers of ''[[The Matrix (series)|The Matrix]]'' trilogy, have stated that the first ''Ghost in the Shell'' film by Mamoru Oshii, influenced their work.<ref>[http://www.warnervideo.com/matrixevents/wachowski.html WarnerVideo.com], Interview with the Wachowski siblings, [[Warner Brothers Studios]], Official Website.</ref> They showed the ''Ghost in the Shell'' to producer [[Joel Silver]] to indicate the style and look they wanted for ''The Matrix''. [[James Cameron]] and [[Quentin Tarantino]] have also acknowledged the influence of ''Ghost in the Shell'''s rococo plots and stylized visuals.<ref>{{cite news | url = http://www.wired.com/wired/archive/12.09/anime.html| title = The Giants of Anime are Coming | publisher = Wired | accessdate = November 29, 2012 | first=Charles | last=Mann | date=September 2004}}</ref>


==References==
==References==
;Specific
{{cite book |authorlink= |title=Ghost in the Shell|accessdate=2013-01-01 |publisher=Dark Horse|isbn=1-56971-081-3 |page= |pages=}}

;General
{{Reflist|30em}}
{{Reflist|30em}}



Revision as of 19:56, 17 March 2013

Ghost in the Shell
Created byMasamune Shirow
Original workGhost in the Shell (manga)
  • Ghost in the Shell 2: Man-Machine Interface
  • Ghost in the Shell 1.5: Human-Error Processor
Print publications
Book(s)
  • Ghost in the Shell Continuty Script Story Board
  • The Ghost in the Shell: Fuchikoma Papercraft
  • My Favorite Ghost in the Shell: Stand Alone Complex
  • Ghost in the Shell: Stand Alone Complex Official Log 1
  • Ghost in the Shell: Stand Alone Complex: Tachikoma All Memory
  • Ghost in the Shell: SAC Ultimate Archive
  • Groundworks of Ghost in the Shell: Stand Alone Complex Art Book
  • Innocence - World of Mamoru Oshii
  • Innocence & Ghost in the Shell Complete Book
  • Ghost in the Shell: S.A.C. 2nd GIG Visual Book
  • Groundworks of Ghost in the Shell: S.A.C 2nd GIG Art Book
  • Ghost in the Shell SAC - Solid State Society Visual Book
Novel(s)
  • Ghost in the Shell: Burning City
  • Ghost in the Shell 2: Star Seed
  • Ghost in the Shell: Stand Alone Complex Graphic Novel 1: The Lost Memory
  • Ghost in the Shell: Stand Alone Complex Graphic Novel 2: Revenge of the Cold Machines
  • Ghost in the Shell: Stand Alone Complex Graphic Novel 3: White Maze
  • Innocence: After the Long Goodbye
Comics
  • Ghost in the Shell: S.A.C. Tachikoma na Hibi
  • Ghost in the Shell: Stand Alone Complex
Films and television
Film(s)
Animated series
Games
Video game(s)
Audio
Soundtrack(s)
  • Ghost in the Shell: Original Soundtrack
  • Ghost in the Shell: Megatech Body
  • Ghost in the Shell 2: Innocence O.S.T.
Original musicMusic of Ghost in the Shell: Stand Alone Complex
Miscellaneous
Toy(s)Action figures

Ghost in the Shell (攻殻機動隊, Kōkaku Kidōtai, literally "Mobile Armored Riot Police"), also known as The Ghost in the Shell, is a Japanese seinen manga series written and illustrated by Masamune Shirow. The manga was serialized in Young Magazine and was followed by a sequel, Ghost in the Shell 2: Man-Machine Interface (攻殻機動隊2, Kōkaku Kidōtai 2) and a collection of manga chapters previously unreleased, titled Ghost in the Shell 1.5: Human-Error Processor (攻殻機動隊1.5, Kōkaku Kidōtai 1.5) serving as an interquel. Each series was later published as its own tankōbon volume by Kodansha. The plots feature a collection of scenarios featuring counter-terrorist organization Public Security Section 9, of which the protagonist Major Motoko Kusanagi belongs, in a futuristic Japan.

The series was first adapted into a 1995 film by Production I.G. followed by a 2004 sequel, Innocence. An anime TV series Ghost in the Shell: Stand Alone Complex aired on Animax from 2002 to 2005; there were also several OVAs based on the anime series. Video games, soundtracks, light novels, art books and other merchandise have also been released. A new anime project entitled Ghost in the Shell: Arise is set to launch in 2013.

Setting

Ghost in the Shell as a media franchise consists of alternate universes and different viewpoints of relative material due to the roles of different directors and writers who produced the media. Ghost in the Shell: Stand Alone Complex takes place in a parallel world compared to the original comic because it is based on the assumption that Motoko Kusanagi did not meet the Puppet Master in 2029.[1]

Ghost in the Shell: Stand Alone Complex is set between the years 2030 and 2035 after World War III, a nuclear war between the developed countries which changed the global balance of power, and a non-nuclear World War IV, which resulted in the collapse of Third World states. Civil wars and non-state revolutionary movements pose a constant security threat worldwide, and the millions of refugees displaced by the global tumult have become a major problem. The advance of technology, particularly cyberization technology and the internet, has also drastically increased the frequency of cyber-terrorism. The ability to ghost hack, the act of intruding into the brain of an individual, is one of the most heinous cyber crimes, and is used by individuals such as the Laughing Man. The distinction between human and machine intelligences blur as cyborgs, dolls and robots begin to coexist together.[2]

Primarily set in the fictional Japanese city of New Port, the series follows the members of Public Security Section 9, a special-operations task-force made up of former military officers and police detectives. Political intrigue and counter-terrorism operations are standard fare for Section 9, but the various actions of corrupt officials, companies, and cyber-criminals in each scenario are unique and require the diverse skills of Section 9's staff to prevent a series of incidents from escalating.

Characters

  • Motoko Kusanagi (草薙 素子, Major Kusanagi Motoko) is the protagonist of the series. She is a cyborg employed as the squad leader of Public Security Section 9. Motoko's personality varies throughout the media, retaining seriousness in the TV and films, but showing a more humorous side in the manga.
  • Batou (バトー, Batō) is a member of Section 9, under the command of Motoko. His demeanor varies based on his portrayal in the media, most notably with a lack of emotion in the movie Innocence and a jokester in the manga.
  • Daisuke Aramaki (荒巻 大輔, Aramaki Daisuke) is the head of Section 9. He is strict and knows how to get the most desirable outcome of any situation. He uses political connections and bargaining to get what he wants, including reestablishing Section 9 for 2nd GIG. While he never takes action in the field, Aramaki's role and dedication to the his team's survival often means putting his career on the line.
  • Togusa (トグサ) is an investigator of Section 9. In the manga, Togusa is emotional and plagued with feelings of failure; but in the films he is savvier but inexperienced, and in the Stand Alone Complex his personality is a combination of the two. Prior to joining Section 9 he was a detective for the police.

Themes

The works of Ghost in the Shell serve as vehicles for social commentary and about humanity itself. With cybernization the boundary between human and machine is defined by a "ghost" (ゴースト, gōsuto) which is defined as an individual's consciousness. By integrating brain tissue with electronic circuitry, a cyberbrain is created. The ghost of the user is retained within the cyberbrain. Cyberbrains are commonplace in the Ghost in the Shell world, and such prevalence has led to scenarios involving sexuality, body swapping, copying and immortality. Political corruption and terrorists are a frequent antagonists of the franchise which allows for philosophical dialogue about concepts relating to morality, nationality and humanity. Ghost hacking, the act of taking control of another person's cyberbrain is a serious crime in the Ghost in the Shell universe. The victim is controlled by the hacker to commit any act including murder, and often the memories of the victim may be altered or deleted without the victim ever realizing it.

Manga

Written and illustrated by Masamune Shirow, Ghost in the Shell ran from April 1989 to November 1990 in Kodansha's manga anthology Young Magazine, and was released in tankobon format on October 2, 1991.[3] Dark Horse Comics initially published it monthly into eight-issue series from March 1, 1995 to October 1, 1995 with the translation of Studio Proteus.[4][5] It was later collected into a single volume in trade paperback format on early December 1, 1995.[6] An uncensored version was later released by Dark Horse on October 6, 2004.[7] The manga was later republished by Kodansha Comics USA on October 13, 2009.[8]

Masamune Shirow created a sequel titled Ghost in the Shell 2: Man-Machine Interface. The manga series ran in Young Magazine from September 1991 to August 1997 and was originally released in hardcover format along with the original manga in a limited edition box set titled Kōkaku Kidōtai SOLID BOX (攻殻機動隊SOLID BOX, Mobile Armored Riot Police Solid Box) on December 1, 2000. The manga was then distributed in English by Dark Horse Comics as a 11-issue series from January 29, 2003 to December 31, 2003.[9][10] Masamune Shirow manually redrew the manga for the English version so that it could be read from left to right.[11] It was later collected into a single volume in trade paperback format on January 12, 2005.[12] The manga was later republished by Kodansha Comics USA on August 10, 2010.[13]

Four chapters that were not released in tankobon format from previous releases, were later collected into a single volume titled Ghost in the Shell 1.5: Human-Error Processor serving as an interquel. The manga was published in July 23, 2003 by Kodansha.[14] Dark Horse released it as an eight-issue series from November 1, 2006 to June 6, 2007 and was the first of the Ghost in the Shell manga released in the U.S. to read right-to-left.[15][16] The four original titles were each split into two each, to make up the eight in this series. It was later collected in a single volume in trade paperback format on October 10, 2007.[17] The manga was later republished by Kodansha Comics USA on September 25, 2012.[18]

A box set titled Kōkaku Kidōtai Cyberdelics (攻殻機動隊Cyberdelics, Mobile Armored Riot Police Cyberdelics) was released on July 8, 1997. The box set contains a collection of posters illustrated by Masamune Shirow, a booklet and a puzzle.[19]

Four manga set in the Stand Alone Complex universe were written by Yu Kinutani and published by Random House Inc.[20]

Films

The manga was first adapted into a theatrical anime film in 1995, Ghost in the Shell (GHOST IN THE SHELL/攻殻機動隊, Gōsuto In Za Sheru/Kōkaku Kidōtai), directed by Mamoru Oshii and animated by Production I.G. The film portrays the events of Section 9 in its hunt to capture the hacker known as the Puppet Master. The film was updated in 2008 and re-released as Ghost in the Shell 2.0; the majority of the changes involved updating the computer graphics and re-recording the sound in 6.1 surround sound. The new version premiered on 12 July 2008 in Japan.[21]

The film was followed by a sequel, also directed by Oshii, Ghost in the Shell 2: Innocence (Innocence (イノセンス) in Japan). Produced in 2004, it places the character of Batou in the lead role in an investigation of a cyborg-corporation called LOCUS SOLUS whose sex dolls malfunction and go on a killing spree.

The Ghost in the Shell: Stand Alone Complex TV series was later followed by a OVA/film sequel, Ghost in the Shell: Stand Alone Complex: Solid State Society. Directed by Kenji Kamiyama and premiered on the SKY Perfect satellite television network on September 1, 2006 as a TV movie,[22] it was also aired as part of the SyFy Channel's Ani-Monday programming block.[23] Solid State Society was later remade in 3D and released at Tokyo's Shinjuku Wald 9 theater on March 25, 2011.[24]

As of 2008, DreamWorks have acquired the rights to produce a live-action film adaptation of the original manga with Steven Spielberg. Avi Arad and Steven Paul are confirmed producers; Jamie Moss was originally hired to adapt the manga into a screenplay[25] but in October 2009 it was announced that Laeta Kalogridis had replaced Moss as writer.[26]

Anime series

The series has been adapted into an anime series titled Ghost in the Shell: Stand Alone Complex with a total of two seasons and one TV film. The series was written and directed by Kenji Kamiyama and produced by Production I.G, airing on Animax from 1 October 2002 to 25 March 2003 with a total of 26 episodes. The second season titled Ghost in the Shell: S.A.C. 2nd GIG was also written and directed by Kenji Kamiyama and produced by Production I.G. 2nd GIG aired on Animax from 1 January 2004 to 8 January 2005, with a total of 26 episodes.[27] The anime TV series was adapted into OVAs,[28] novels,[29] manga,[30] and video games[31] as well.

A new anime series titled Ghost in the Shell Arise was announced on January 15, 2013. Like all other animated features of the franchise, it will be produced by Production I.G, now with Kazuchika Kise as chief director and Tow Ubukata as head writer. A special presentation with further details was streamed live worldwide on February 12 on Niconico, Bandai Channel and YouTube.[32] The series has been confirmed to be a prequel series and will release the first part in theaters on July 22, 2013.[33]

Video games

The PlayStation third-person shooter game Ghost in the Shell, loosely based on the first film and the manga, was developed by Exact and released on July 17, 1997 in Japan by Sony Computer Entertainment.[34] It was distributed by THQ and released on November 3, 1997 in North America.[35] Players take on the role of an unnamed Section 9 member referred to as 'Rookie' who pilots a Fuchikoma robot to stop the Human Liberation Movement.

The PlayStation 2 game Ghost in the Shell: Stand Alone Complex, produced by Sony Computer Entertainment and developed by SCE Japan Studio and Cavia, was released to the United States on November 8, 2004.[36] The game is partly based on the events of the TV anime Ghost in the Shell: Stand Alone Complex. The player takes control of Motoko and Batou, to stop a terrorist organization. A PlayStation Portable (PSP) game also titled Ghost in the Shell: Stand Alone Complex was released to the United States on October 25, 2005, produced by Sony Computer Entertainment and developed by G-artists.[37] This game is a first-person shooter in which the player takes control of Section 9 members over various mission and is a sequel to the PlayStation 2 game Ghost in the Shell: Stand Alone Complex. It is an original story that uses the Stand Alone Complex timeline.[38]

On December 13, 2012, Nexon stated it had obtained the rights of Ghost in the Shell: Stand Alone Complex for the purpose of the creation of a massively multiplayer online game.[39] On February 12, 2013, the first details were released through Online Gamer Japan. Titled Ghost in the Shell Online with the possibility of a different name to come at a later point, the game will be an FPS with a heavy basis on customization of a cyberized body and hacking.[40]

Novels

Three novels were written and illustrated by Junichi Fujisaku who was one of the screenplay writers of the anime TV series. The novels were published by Dark Horse Comics. Ghost in the Shell: Stand Alone Complex Graphic Novel 1: The Lost Memory was released on April 26, 2006. Ghost in the Shell: Stand Alone Complex Graphic Novel 2: Revenge of the Cold Machines was released on September 16, 2006. Ghost in the Shell: Stand Alone Complex Graphic Novel 3: White Maze was released on November 08, 2006.

The novel Innocence: After the Long Goodbye (イノセンス After the Long Goodbye) by Masaki Yamada serves as a prequel for Innocence. The story is written from Batou's perspective as he surrounds his search for his dog Gabriel (Gabu). It was published by Tokuma Shoten and released on February 29, 2004.[41] It was later published by Viz Media in the United States and released on October 2005.[42] Viz Media later released a four-volume ani-manga boxset on April 2005.[43]

Music

The soundtrack for the PlayStation game was released by Sony Music Entertainment Japan as Ghost in the Shell: Megatech Body in 1997.[44]

Art books

A number of artbooks detailing the concept art and world of Ghost in the Shell have been released. An art book titled The Ghost in the Shell: Fuchikoma Papercraft (攻殻機動隊フチコマ立体図鑑, Kōkaku Kidōtai fuchikoma Rittai zukan, lit. "Mobile Armored Riot Police Fuchikoma three-dimensional picture book") was released by Kodansha on July 24, 2000. The book contains several different artwork and paper cut out figures of the Fuchikoma.[45]

Merchandise

Numerous statuettes and action figures have been released for Ghost in the Shell, primarily around the Stand Alone Complex versions of the characters with Motoko and Tachikoma being a central focus. Various figures have been produced from CM Corporation,[46] and Kaitendo.[47] Tachikoma figures have been produced by various companies, including one by the Good Smile Company in cooperation with Nendoron.[48] Other merchandise includes clothing, key chains, notebooks, patches, bags, posters and body pillows.[49]

Impact and influence

The Wachowskis, makers of The Matrix trilogy, have stated that the first Ghost in the Shell film by Mamoru Oshii, influenced their work.[50] They showed the Ghost in the Shell to producer Joel Silver to indicate the style and look they wanted for The Matrix. James Cameron and Quentin Tarantino have also acknowledged the influence of Ghost in the Shell's rococo plots and stylized visuals.[51]

References

  1. ^ "Into the Network: The Ghost in the Shell Universe". Production I.G. Retrieved January 08, 2013. {{cite web}}: Check date values in: |accessdate= (help)
  2. ^ "4.Megatech Machine 2 – The Making of a Cyborg". Ghost in the Shell.
  3. ^ "攻殻機動隊(1)" (in Japanese). Kodansha. Retrieved 2012-10-13.
  4. ^ "GHOST IN THE SHELL #1 (OF 8)". Dark Horse Comics. Retrieved 2012-10-12.
  5. ^ "GHOST IN THE SHELL #8 (OF 8)". Dark Horse Comics. Retrieved 2012-10-12.
  6. ^ "GHOST IN THE SHELL TPB". Dark Horse Comics. Retrieved 2012-10-12.
  7. ^ "GHOST IN THE SHELL 1 2ND EDITION TPB". Dark Horse Comics. Retrieved 2012-10-20.
  8. ^ "Ghost in the Shell Volume 1". Kodansha Comics USA. Retrieved 2012-10-31.
  9. ^ "GHOST IN THE SHELL 2: MAN-MACHINE INTERFACE #1". Dark Horse Comics. Retrieved 2012-10-12.
  10. ^ "GHOST IN THE SHELL 2: MAN-MACHINE INTERFACE #11". Dark Horse Comics. Retrieved 2012-10-12.
  11. ^ "Ghost in the Shell 2: Man-Machine Interface". ICv2. Retrieved 2012-11-27.
  12. ^ "GHOST IN THE SHELL VOLUME 2: MAN-MACHINE INTERFACE TPB". Dark Horse Comics. Retrieved 2012-10-12.
  13. ^ "Ghost in the Shell Volume 2". Kodansha Comics USA. Retrieved 2012-10-31.
  14. ^ "攻殻機動隊1.5" (in Japanese). Kodansha. Retrieved 2012-10-13.
  15. ^ "GHOST IN THE SHELL 1.5: HUMAN-ERROR PROCESSOR #1". Dark Horse Comics. Retrieved 2012-10-12.
  16. ^ "GHOST IN THE SHELL 1.5: HUMAN-ERROR PROCESSOR #8". Dark Horse Comics. Retrieved 2012-10-12.
  17. ^ "GHOST IN THE SHELL 1.5: HUMAN-ERROR PROCESSOR TPB". Dark Horse Comics. Retrieved 2012-10-12.
  18. ^ "Ghost in the Shell 1.5". Kodansha Comics USA. Retrieved 2012-10-31.
  19. ^ "攻殻機動隊 Cyberdelics" (in Japanese). Kodansha. Retrieved 2012-11-24.
  20. ^ "Yu Kinutani (Works)". Random House. Retrieved January 06, 2013. {{cite web}}: Check date values in: |accessdate= (help)
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