Netflix has made a significant commitment to acquire the global rights for the universally acclaimed board game, “Catan,” signaling an ambitious expansion into a multi-platform franchise. The streaming giant is now actively developing a diverse range of projects based on the beloved game, encompassing film and television, both scripted and unscripted formats, and productions in both live-action and animation. This extensive undertaking aims to bring 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 the original ‘Catan’ inventor, Klaus Teuber. Roy Lee of Vertigo Entertainment will also serve as a producer, bringing additional industry expertise to the endeavor. The deal itself was meticulously negotiated by CAA and Goodman Genow on behalf of Asmodee and Catan GmbH.

“Catan,” initially released in 1995 by its creator Klaus Teuber under the name “The Settlers of Catan,” 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, establishing itself as a cornerstone of modern board gaming. The game’s premise is set 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, residing in the island’s desert, adds a layer of unpredictable drama by allowing players to steal resources, potentially shifting fortunes dramatically.

Industry leaders have voiced their enthusiasm for this collaboration. Thomas Koegler, CEO of Asmodee, expressed his excitement, stating, “Millions of people are enjoying ‘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, I find it exciting for the future of the brand.” He further emphasized that this development is “a testament that board gaming is truly part of pop culture and a popular form of entertainment in everyone’s homes,” reinforcing Asmodee’s continued relationship with Netflix.

Benjamin and Guido Teuber, co-CEOs of Catan GmbH and sons of the late inventor, shared their perspective on their father’s legacy and the future of the game. They remarked, “When our father Klaus Teuber first introduced ‘Catan’ thirty years ago, he imagined an aspirational world where people would gather by trading, building and settling 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 globally for three decades and expressed their thrill to see it inspire storytelling on a global stage, aligning with their father’s vision of creativity, strategy, and human connection.

Jinny Howe, Netflix’s head of scripted series for US and Canada, underscored the narrative potential inherent in the game, commenting, “Anyone who has played ‘Catan’ knows that the intense strategy at the core of the game has endless opportunities for some serious drama. We’re thrilled to partner across series, features, animation, and games to bring this world to life for hardcore ‘Settlers’ and new fans alike.”

This venture builds on Netflix’s established track record of adapting popular games into successful screen content. The streamer has previously launched critically acclaimed animated series such as “Arcane,” based on “League of Legends,” and an adaptation of “Castlevania.” More recently, Netflix announced an ordered series version of “Assassin’s Creed,” a “Monopoly” reality competition series, and adaptations of “The Werewolves of Millers Hollow” (which became the film “Family Pack”) and “Exploding Kittens” (an adult animated series). This new deal for “Catan” follows a previous attempt in 2015 when Gail Katz acquired screen rights, though no projects ultimately materialized from that endeavor.

With this comprehensive plan, Netflix aims to not only entertain existing fans but also introduce the strategic depth and engaging narrative of “Catan” to a vast new audience across various entertainment formats.