Netflix has made a significant commitment by acquiring the global rights to the universally acclaimed board game Catan, signaling an ambitious expansion into a multi-platform franchise. The streaming giant is actively developing a diverse range of projects based on the beloved game, spanning film and television—both scripted and unscripted—as well as live-action and animated productions. This extensive initiative aims to introduce the rich universe of Catan to a broader global audience.

A distinguished team of producers has been assembled for these projects, including Darren Kyman from game publisher Asmodee, Pete Fenlon of Catan Studios (an Asmodee studio), and Guido and Benjamin Teuber, the sons of Catan’s original inventor, Klaus Teuber. Roy Lee of Vertigo Entertainment will also serve as a producer, bringing additional industry expertise to the endeavor. The deal was meticulously negotiated by CAA and Goodman Genow on behalf of Asmodee and Catan GmbH.

Originally released in 1995 by Klaus Teuber under the name The Settlers of Catan, the game has since evolved into a global phenomenon. It boasts sales of over 45 million copies worldwide and has been translated into more than 40 languages, solidifying its place as a cornerstone of modern board gaming. The game’s premise unfolds on the fictional island of Catan, where players strategically acquire resources, build roads, settlements, and cities, and engage in trading to accumulate victory points. A unique element, the Robber, which resides in the island’s desert, adds an unpredictable twist by allowing players to steal resources—often shifting the tide of play dramatically.

Industry leaders have expressed strong enthusiasm for this collaboration. Thomas Koegler, CEO of Asmodee, stated, “Millions of people have enjoyed Catan since it was created, and for many, it remains a gateway to modern board gaming. I’m thrilled to see the game expanding to a larger audience who will discover the richness of its universe. It’s exciting for the future of the brand.” He further emphasized that this development “is a testament to how board gaming has become an integral part of pop culture and a popular form of entertainment in homes around the world,” reinforcing Asmodee’s ongoing partnership with Netflix.

Benjamin and Guido Teuber, co-CEOs of Catan GmbH and sons of the late Klaus Teuber, shared reflections on their father’s legacy and the future of the franchise. They remarked, “When our father Klaus Teuber first introduced Catan thirty years ago, he imagined an aspirational world where people would gather to trade, build, and settle together—both at the table and beyond it. This collaboration with Netflix marks an exciting new chapter in that journey.” They highlighted the game’s role in connecting families and friends across generations and continents, expressing their excitement to see it inspire storytelling on a global stage—true to their father’s vision of creativity, strategy, and human connection.

Jinny Howe, Netflix’s Head of Scripted Series for the U.S. and Canada, underscored the game’s storytelling potential, noting, “Anyone who has played Catan knows that the intense strategy at the core of the game offers endless opportunities for drama. We’re thrilled to collaborate across series, features, animation, and games to bring this world to life for both hardcore ‘Settlers’ and new fans alike.”

This venture builds upon Netflix’s growing track record of adapting popular games into successful on-screen content. The streamer has previously launched critically acclaimed animated series such as Arcane (based on League of Legends) and Castlevania. More recently, Netflix announced adaptations including an Assassin’s Creed series, a Monopoly reality competition show, and The Werewolves of Millers Hollow (which became the film Family Pack), alongside Exploding Kittens, an adult animated series.

This new Catan deal follows an earlier attempt in 2015, when producer Gail Katz acquired screen rights, though no projects ultimately materialized from that effort. With this renewed and far-reaching vision, Netflix aims not only to captivate long-time fans but also to introduce Catan’s strategic depth and immersive world-building to a vast new audience across multiple entertainment formats.