Moray students developing 'Monster' maths game

Moray College UHI is creating a computer game to boost the maths skills of youngsters whose learning has been hit by Covid.

The game called Algorismus requires kids to solve maths-based puzzles to defeat monsters, collect treasure and pick up useful items to help them through their adventure.

Dr Malcolm Clark from the university's computing department said: "There are concerns that Covid-19 may have affected pupil attainment.

"This project aims to address these issues, while also giving our students the valuable experience of working on a real-life project.

"It's an excellent example of the way the university is supporting the recovery of our region."

The students have teamed up with private software company Mesomorphic, which is based on Shetland.

Backing for the three-month project has come from the Scottish Funding Council in the form of £7500 funding.

Mesomorphic will also provide work experience placements and run a series of guest lectures so Moray students can learn more about working in the software development industry.

Barnaby Mercer, the company's founder, said: "Algorismus is an exciting opportunity for Mesomorphic to pull together local talent in digital art, music and software development.

"Our ambition is to create jobs and opportunities within Shetland that play to the work/life, tech/nature balance afforded by our location."

Do you want to respond to this article? If so, click here to submit your thoughts and they may be published in print.