trace_call - Ethereum RPC Method
Trace a call without creating a transaction on Ethereum. Requires archive node for DeFi protocols (60% market share), NFT marketplaces, DAOs, and enterprise dApps.
Traces a call without creating a transaction on Ethereum, returning the trace output.
Archive Node Required
This method requires an archive node. It is not available on full nodes.
When to Use This Method
- Trace simulated execution of multiple calls - Preview internal calls before committing a transaction on Ethereum
- Pre-execution analysis - Test contract interactions without spending gas for DeFi protocols (60% market share), NFT marketplaces, DAOs, and enterprise dApps
- Batch trace simulations - Execute several calls sequentially where each can depend on prior state changes
- Contract interaction analysis - Understand how multiple contracts interact through a simulated execution chain
Best Practices
- Similar to debug_traceCall but supports multiple calls in one request
- Each call has its own trace configuration for fine-grained control
- Use for batch simulation analysis of dependent call sequences
- Requires archive node access for historical block tracing
Response Body
ResponseCode Examples
Related Methods
trace_filter- Filter traces by criteriaeth_call- Execute call without tracetrace_transaction- Trace a specific transaction
trace_block
Get traces for all transactions in a block on Ethereum. Requires archive node for DeFi protocols (60% market share), NFT marketplaces, DAOs, and enterprise dApps.
trace_callMany
Trace multiple calls in sequence on Ethereum. Requires archive node for DeFi protocols (60% market share), NFT marketplaces, DAOs, and enterprise dApps.