Fourth wall

"Breaking the fourth wall" refers to an instance where a character in a work of fiction references the fact that they are in a work of fiction. In many instances, the character implies that they are aware of their fictitiousness, but occasionally they simply make an observation that, normally, only the audience would notice. There are several instances of breaking the fourth wall in the Ace Attorney series, though they are few and far between. Below is a list of all known instances.

It should be noted that, while almost every game contains some form of direct address (i.e. narration), or referencing the buttons on the system/controller, this is merely done to convey information to the player, rather than for comedic effect. As such, these moments are not included in this list.

Phoenix Wright: Ace Attorney: Justice For All

 * At the Hotti Clinic, when the patient with crutches is examined during Farewell, My Turnabout, Director Hotti (or rather, his impersonator) states that he hasn't moved since the last time Phoenix Wright was there. This is a reference to the fact that said patient is part of a static background.

Professor Layton vs. Phoenix Wright: Ace Attorney
The special episodes include numerous instances of breaking the fourth wall, the most common of which is directly referencing the special episodes themselves.

Reunion

 * Luke Triton states that the fans would recognise the re-enactment of Espella's introduction instantly.
 * Hershel Layton states that the special episodes include puzzles left out of the main game. He then catches himself and says that they are "specially prepared for our further enjoyment".
 * Maya Fey wonders if Layton "never drinks more than 17 cups of tea during any given puzzle". Wright then advises against making that kind of Ace Attorney reference.
 * Phoenix questions whether the cast should be so self-aware during these episodes. Maya then states that self-awareness is fun, before directly asking for the "avid video game player's" confirmation.

Trivia

 * The term "breaking the fourth wall" comes from the theatre, where the actors imagine that they are surrounded by four invisible walls, the fourth wall being the separation between the stage and the audience.