In our latest film for #WeArePlay, which celebrates the people behind groundbreaking apps and games, Jakub takes us on a journey through 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 blend captivating art with immersive storytelling, he founded his company Amanita Design in 2003.

Today, the thriving business is renowned for its unique approach to games, drawing inspiration from Czech landscapes, fairy tales, and the rich cultural heritage of its homeland. With a dedicated team of around 30, they are crafting games as visually stunning as they are narratively rich. Discover how he is merging the charm of Czech culture with the magic of gaming.

What’s the inspiration behind Amanita Design and your game Machinarium?

I have a love for nature, fairy tales, 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 felt both magical and deeply connected to my roots. Our games often use Czech folklore and the natural world. In 2009, when we developed Machinarium, I was fascinated with industrial decay and old machinery. The abandoned factories around Prague provided a gritty backdrop for the game. We paired this with a compelling story and handcrafted visuals. We even used natural sounds from our environment to add an authentic touch.

Did you always imagine you’d be 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 began 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 an entrepreneur but it was the love for game development that initially set me on this path.

What sets your games apart?

What makes our games stand out is the mix of old-world craftsmanship with today’s tech. We really enjoy 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’re 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 artistic craftsmanship while embracing new opportunities in the gaming industry.

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