Alternative Controller Research
My masters research focused on the topic of Alt.Ctrl games and the community of developers and artists that create them. Alt.Ctrl games are played with an alternative controller, meaning any type of controller that deviates in design from the mass produced gamepad design. Alternative controllers can be custom made, or be an existing input device that has been repurposed.
Initial research found that the academic literature on the subject was sparse, therefore this project involved conducting primary research via a survey, with the aim to further the understanding of Alt.Ctrl. Prominent members of the Alt.Ctrl scene participated and provided valuable information on their craft and the community that has organised around Alt.Ctrl.
In addition to the survey, a variety of alternative controllers and games were prototyped. The two custom controllers, and the repurposed midi keyboard, demonstrate how Alt.Ctrl games can offer unique game experiences.
See the linked video below for footage of the prototypes and a summary of the overall findings of the research.
