GHOST performed a sold-out show at Nationwide Arena in Columbus, Ohio on February 2 as part of their Skeletour World Tour, delivering yet another evening of meticulously staged theatrical metal that has made this tour one of the most talked-about live events in heavy music. The 20,000-capacity venue was packed to the rafters with devotees of Tobias Forge's singular vision.
The phone-free spectacle, enforced by Yondr pouches secured at the entrance, allowed fans to fully immerse themselves in Papa V Perpetua's elaborate stage production without the distraction of glowing screens — a policy that has become a defining feature of the Skeletour experience. Attendees reported a palpable difference in crowd energy and engagement compared to typical arena shows, with fans singing along, headbanging, and fully committing to the ritualistic atmosphere GHOST cultivates.
Highlights of the Columbus date included live debuts of deep cuts from "Skeleta" alongside setlist staples "Satanized," "Lachryma," and the ever-explosive "Year Zero." The band rotated in "Faith" and "From the Pinnacle to the Pit" specifically for this show, keeping the setlist unpredictable for fans following the tour across multiple cities. The enhanced pyrotechnics, which featured towering flame columns during "Cirice" and cascading sparks during "Square Hammer," combined with a completely revamped lighting design to make each song a distinct visual experience.
Reviews from Columbus praised the balance between spectacle and musicianship, noting that the unnamed Ghouls delivered tighter performances than ever. The Skeletour continues its march through North America with stops in major arenas before the final date at Intuit Dome in Inglewood on February 23.