What wil your algorithm be? Random numbers is a good start. For example: you could take a noise~ object and control the cutoff frequency and other parameters algorithmically (if it will sound nice is another question). Other possibility: number generator (random or not) and then translate those numbers in MIDI notes. With your PS3 controller, you control additional parameters like you said.

Hi Such a patch is easily achieved in Max; however, as your description is quite broad or open to interpretation, you won't get details of how to put this together from scratch, particularly as this is a coursework exercise. What you should try is some basic stuff first and troubleshoot each step along the way. Constructing control algorithms makes use of the Max maths, timing and routing objects - look in the examples folder and you'll find lots of prefab demonstration patches. If you can use a PS3 controller as a USB mouse, then the [hid] object is your friend, though there are externals to interface with such devices (google maxobjects). I haven't used Max to pass control/MIDI data on to another soft synth, but you might need a virtual midi device such as LoopBe (?). Most of what you need to get started is in the examples folder and the documentation tutorials.

I think the second possibility sounds more like what i'm looking for. Using a random number generator, and then using the Note out and make note objects to create the random pattern, and then be able to control the sound live with my PS3 controller. If that's what you meant?