alt.ctrl@IML

An initiative seperate from the research of the main lab, alt.ctrl@IML is a collection of playful, one-of-a-kind interactive experiences, each crafted with custom hardware and developed in-house at the lab. Led by Yong Zhen Zhou, these projects reimagine the role of controllers in game design, treating them as materials that can fundamentally shape the gaming experience.

Inspired by both innovative interactions from academia research and the familiar textures of everyday life, our projects challenges the boundaries of physicality and tactility in video games. The works seek to extend the gaming experience beyond the screen, exploring how involving more of the real world changes our relationships with games and foster unexpected moments of play.

Each creation in our lab invites players to connect with games in unique ways. With these games we hope to offer a glimpse into the potential of physical interaction in game design, to spark curiosity, challenge conventions, and inspire others to rethink and controllers. But most of all, we would like to present players with a memorable fun experience.

The works have been exhibited internationally at various venues such as, the Game Developers’ Conference, Ars Electronica, Bitsummit, and the Tokyo Game Show.

Team

Design Lead
Yong Zhen Zhou

Designers
Han Bo
Sheryl Teng
Joshua Tan Jianhao
Adam Choo
Vina Setiawaty

Contact
alt.ctrl@IML is eager to show our projects at festivals, exhibitions, museums and other events (rather than having them sitting in a box)
Please reach out!

We are also open to discussion for collaborations or comissions.

Send inquiries to
barcwithcat@gmail.com