Android Developers Blog: #WeArePlay | How Jakub Incorporates Czech Mythology into His Games

Posted by Robbie McLachlan, Developer Marketing

In our latest film for #WeArePlay, celebrating the people behind groundbreaking apps and games, Jakub takes us on a journey into the world of Amanita Design. Born in Prague, Czech Republic, his journey into the world of games began with a passion for animation and an eye for artistic detail. Driven by a vision to create games that combine captivating art with compelling stories, he founded his company Amanita Design in 2003.

Today, the thriving business is known for its unique approach to games, drawing inspiration from Czech landscapes, fairy tales, and the rich cultural heritage of its home country. With a dedicated team of around 30 people, they create games that are visually stunning and narratively rich. Discover how he combines the charm of Czech culture with the magic of gaming.

What is the inspiration behind Amanita Design and your game Machinarium?

I love nature, fairytales and Czech culture. Growing up in Prague, I was surrounded by beautiful landscapes and old buildings that sparked my imagination. I studied classical animation and always wanted to create something that was both magical and deeply connected to my roots. Our games often use Czech folklore and the natural world. In 2009, when we were developing Machinarium, I was fascinated by industrial decay and old machinery. The abandoned factories around Prague formed a rugged backdrop for the game. We combined this with an immersive story and handcrafted visuals. We even used natural sounds from our surroundings to add an authentic touch.

Did you always think you would become an entrepreneur?

I didn’t initially see myself as an entrepreneur. My journey began with a passion for games and animation, and I started Amanita Design as a natural extension of my interests. I started the studio right after finishing school, driven by a desire to create and share my artistic vision. Over time, as the studio grew organically, I embraced the role of entrepreneur, but it was my love for game development that initially set me on this path.

What makes your games unique?

What sets our games apart is the mix of old-fashioned craftsmanship with today’s technology. We love incorporating hand-painted cardboard characters and using natural materials for sound effects, which adds a unique, tactile feel to our work. We draw deeply from Czech culture, nature and fairy tales, giving each game a distinctive and enchanting touch. It’s all about creating something authentic and immersive, and we hope that passion resonates with our players.

What does the future look like for Amanita Design?

We are working on several new games and exploring different distribution models, such as the free-to-try approach on mobile platforms. Our goal is to continue creating unique and artistically rich games that resonate with a global audience. As technology evolves, we plan to adapt and innovate, maintaining our focus on storytelling and artistry while embracing new opportunities in the games industry.

Discover more international #WeArePlay stories and share your favorites.

How useful did you find this blog post?

★ ★ ★ ★ ★