The world of trading, building and settling is heading to the screens as Netflix secures the global rights to the iconic board game “Catan.” The streaming giant is now developing multiple projects including films, scripted and unscripted TV series, and animated adaptations, all based on the beloved tabletop phenomenon, Variety reports.
Produced in collaboration with Asmodee, Catan Studios and the Teuber family, sons of the game’s late inventor Klaus Teuber, the projects aim to expand the game’s imaginative universe beyond tabletops. Roy Lee of Vertigo Entertainment will also produce.
“Millions of people have enjoyed ‘Catan’ since it was created, and for many, it remains a gateway to modern board gaming,” said Thomas Koegler, CEO of Asmodee. “Seeing the game expand to a global audience through Netflix is thrilling, it proves that board gaming has become part of pop culture.”
First released in 1995 as “The Settlers of Catan,” the strategy board game has since sold over 45 million copies in more than 40 languages, captivating families and gamers worldwide. Players compete to build and expand settlements on the fictional island of Catan by trading resources like wood, brick and ore while strategizing their path to victory points.
The late Klaus Teuber’s vision of community and creativity remains central to the adaptation. His sons Benjamin and Guido Teuber, now co-CEOs of Catan GmbH, said, “Our father imagined a world where people gather to trade, build and connect, both at the table and beyond. This collaboration with Netflix opens a new chapter for ‘Catan,’ inspiring storytelling on a global stage while staying true to his vision.”
Netflix has increasingly turned to game-based storytelling to expand its entertainment universe. Previous hits include the Emmy-winning “Arcane,” based on “League of Legends,” and “Castlevania.” The streamer has also announced upcoming adaptations of “Assassin’s Creed” and a “Monopoly” reality competition.
“Anyone who’s played ‘Catan’ knows that its intense strategy offers endless dramatic potential,” said Jinny Howe, Netflix’s Head of Scripted Series for the US and Canada. “We’re excited to bring its world to life across film, series and animation for longtime settlers and new fans alike.”
The deal was brokered by CAA and Goodman Genow on behalf of asmodee and Catan GmbH, marking another major move in Netflix’s growing quest to transform beloved games into screen universes.
