The creator of Game Theory, MatPat, presents a case against Phoenix Wright, a defense attorney from the popular video game series Ace Attorney. MatPat argues that Phoenix Wright is the true villain of the series, citing his questionable methods of gathering evidence, presenting surprise witnesses, and withholding information from investigators. He points out that Phoenix's actions violate the concept of discovery in US courts and could result in severe punishment, including disbarment and imprisonment. MatPat also notes that, even in the game's fictional "Jamerica" legal system, which is based on Japanese law, Phoenix's actions are still questionable and potentially illegal. Throughout the video, MatPat uses humor and pop culture references to make his points, and ultimately concludes that Phoenix Wright is a "criminal" who gets away with his wrongdoing.
Here are the key facts extracted from the text:
1. The Ace Attorney series is a popular franchise that originated in Japan and has been adapted into various forms of media, including manga, anime, and a musical.
2. The series follows the character of Phoenix Wright, a defense attorney who solves crimes and proves his clients' innocence.
3. The game "Phoenix Wright: Ace Attorney" is the first game in the series and was released in Japan in 2001.
4. The game takes place in an alternate universe version of Los Angeles, where Japanese and American culture have intermingled.
5. The game's creator, Capcom, has confirmed that the series takes place in this alternate universe.
6. In the game, Phoenix Wright is a defense attorney who often uses dramatic and unconventional methods to win cases.
7. However, some of these methods may be considered unethical or even illegal in real-life court proceedings.
8. The game's system of justice is based on the Japanese inquisitorial system, which allows for more flexibility in court proceedings.
9. In the United States, the discovery phase of a trial requires both sides to share evidence and witness lists before the trial begins.
10. Phoenix Wright often fails to comply with this rule, introducing surprise evidence and witnesses without warning.
11. This could result in his evidence being thrown out of court, or even lead to him being held in contempt of court.
12. In one episode, Phoenix Wright bribes a witness with a trading card, which is not technically illegal but is considered unethical.
13. In another episode, Phoenix Wright steals a wiretap from a hotel room without a warrant, which is illegal and could result in his evidence being inadmissible in court.
14. The exclusionary rule in the United States prohibits evidence obtained through illegal means from being used in a criminal case.
15. Phoenix Wright also tampers with evidence and conceals information from investigators, which is a crime in the United States.
16. Obstruction of justice and tampering with evidence can carry jail time and fines in the United States.
17. In the game, Phoenix Wright's actions could result in his lawyer's license being revoked.
Note: Some of these facts may be subject to interpretation or debate, but they are presented as factual information in the text.