Phantometal

In the Paradox Live universe, Phantometal (ファントメタル, fantometaru) is a substance found within the accessories used by hip-hop and rap artists in the near future, and may also refer to the accessories themselves. It is a type of chemically reactive metal that when combined with the user's DNA, allows them to generate brilliant illusions in the environment that are linked to their emotions. They are integral to the popular phantom live movement, where artists can perform songs and create illusions on stage.^[1] Unfortunately, as a side effect, users will afterwards suffer from illusions of their past trauma. This is referred to as a trap response.^[2] It is implied that trap responses get more intense if the user has been drinking too much alcohol.^[3]

Phantometals were developed by the organization Alter Trigger, which supposedly disbanded after the side effects of phantometals were discovered.^[4] The phantom live movement began at CLUB Paradox, where the Paradox Live competition takes place.^[2]

Metal Erosion[]

The overuse of a phantometal can lead to a condition known as metal erosion. Some symptoms include weakness and discoloration of the skin. One should stop using the phantometal at the first sign of symptoms or else risk the progression of the condition into acute metal erosion, which puts the person at a higher risk of dying.

Occurrences of Metal Erosion In-Series[]

The following section includes drama track spoilers and references sensitive subject matter (attempted suicide, death). Please read with caution.

Hajun experiences acute metal erosion in Voice Drama "VIBES", causing him to pass out during the stage battle between BAE and Akanyatsura. Allen and Anne save him by entering his mind through his phantometal and confronting his trauma. This appears to completely heal his metal erosion, allowing BAE to continue performing.
Also in Voice Drama "VIBES", Iori references a legend that Haruomi of Buraikan used this same method to save his partner, assumed to be Chisei.
Nayuta experienced metal erosion in the past, seemingly a result of phantometal experimentation he was partaking in as a part-time job. This caused him weakness and discoloration in the arm. This leads to him attempting to take his own life since he felt he would burden Kanata with his condition. Later on, when he awakens from his coma, it is discovered that Alter Trigger healed his erosion completely
Naoakira's wife Tsubaki developed metal erosion after participating in phantometal research, which then led to her death.^[5]

Dirtmetal[]

Dirtmetal is possibly an illegal or underground counterpart to phantometal. There is little information about it as it is sparsely referenced in the series thus far.

It is mentioned in Voice Drama Part "cozmez" where Iori requests Kanata to look for someone who had a "dirtmetal with a high concentration of phantometal purity."