The History of Czechoslovak and Slovak Digital Games: Game Dev Behind the Iron Curtain
Event: The History of Czechoslovak and Slovak Digital Games: Game Dev Behind the Iron Curtain
Date: Tuesday 21 April 2026
Time: 14:30-15:30
Venue: Institute of Digital Games
Explore the fascinating history of digital games from former Czechoslovakia and Slovakia with Adam Kysler, PhD Candidate at the University of SS. Cyril and Methodius (Trnava, Slovakia). Drawing from his PhD research, Adam will guide attendees through the beginnings of the Slovak "game industry," covering the era from the late 1970s through the 1990s.
Entrepreneurship and owning private companies were not legal until 1989. As a result the games made during this time were mostly the products of game enthusiasts, teenagers that wanted to entertain their schoolmates. If you would like to try some of the historical games before his talk Adam has provided a link below with a few translated versions of the 8-bit games.
The English translations were created in cooperation with Slovak Game Developers Association. Predominantly text adventures, these retro titles offer a unique glimpse into the creativity of the era. The link contains everything needed to play, including the games themselves, maps, manuals, and a built-in emulator. You’re highly encouraged to use the manuals, as they were a very common necessity at the time!
Adam’s personal favourite is Satochin, a text adventure where players follow Major Satochin on his mission to defeat the imperialist Rambo.
Trying out the games beforehand is recommended (but not required).
Places are limited so registration beforehand is ideal and available .
Play the translated 8-bit games available .
Don't miss this opportunity to learn something new about the rich, grassroots history of Slovak digital games!
