The popular board game Catan is set to make its way to the screen as Netflix has secured the rights to develop a TV series and films based on the game. This adaptation will include a variety of projects, including scripted and unscripted content, as well as both live-action and animated formats.
Netflix describes the upcoming projects as taking place in a world where settlers navigate diverse landscapes, form shifting alliances, and manage limited resources while encountering challenges from robbers. The adaptation aims to capture the strategic depth and drama inherent in the game.
Jinny Howe, head of scripted series for Netflix in the U.S. and Canada, expressed excitement about the partnership, highlighting the endless storytelling possibilities that the game’s strategy can inspire. The goal is to engage both longtime fans and newcomers to the Catan universe.
Catan, originally released in Germany in 1995 as The Settlers of Catan, has sold over 45 million copies worldwide and has been translated into more than 40 languages. It has been recognized as a significant cultural phenomenon in board gaming.
Thomas Koegler, CEO of Asmodee, emphasized the game’s role in introducing many to modern board gaming and expressed enthusiasm about expanding its audience through this collaboration with Netflix. He noted that the partnership reflects the growing popularity of board games in contemporary entertainment.
Benjamin and Guido Teuber, co-CEOs of Catan GmbH, shared their excitement about the adaptation, stating that it aligns with their father’s vision of fostering creativity and connection through the game. They see this collaboration as an opportunity to bring Catan’s rich storytelling to a global audience.
In addition to Catan, Netflix has been actively building its portfolio of game adaptations, including titles like Castlevania, Exploding Kittens, and an upcoming Assassin’s Creed series. This trend highlights the streaming service’s commitment to exploring diverse narratives from the gaming world.
