In a significant move, Netflix has invested substantial resources to acquire the global rights to the iconic board game “Catan.”
The streaming service plans to develop various projects rooted in the game, including films, scripted and unscripted television series, and live-action and animated formats. Darren Kyman from game publisher Asmodee, Pete Fenlon of Catan Studios, and Klaus Teuber’s sons—Guido and Benjamin Teuber—who are also involved with Catan GmbH—will produce the projects. Roy Lee of Vertigo Entertainment is also set to join as a producer.
Thomas Koegler, CEO of Asmodee, expressed his excitement over the collaboration, stating, “Millions of people are enjoying ‘Catan’ since its inception, and for many, it remains a gateway to modern board gaming. I’m thrilled to see the game reach a larger audience and eager to further enrich the brand’s universe through this partnership with Netflix. This collaboration underscores the growing significance of board gaming in pop culture and its place as a beloved form of entertainment in households worldwide.”
Originally released in 1995 as “The Settlers of Catan,” the game has achieved remarkable success, selling over 45 million copies globally and being adapted into 40 languages. Players navigate the fictional island of Catan, gathering resources to expand settlements and score victory points to win.
In a joint statement, Benjamin and Guido Teuber, co-CEOs of Catan GmbH, reflected on their father’s vision: “When our father first introduced ‘Catan’ thirty years ago, he envisioned a world where people could come together to trade, build, and settle—both at the game table and beyond. Our collaboration with Netflix marks a thrilling new chapter in that journey. For three decades, ‘Catan’ has brought families and friends together around the globe. We are excited to see it take on new storytelling forms on a global platform while remaining true to our father’s themes of creativity, strategy, and connection.”
Netflix has previously ventured into adaptations of both video and board games, including the critically acclaimed animated series “Arcane,” based on “League of Legends,” and a successful adaptation of “Castlevania.” Recently, Netflix has announced a series based on “Assassin’s Creed” and a reality competition format for “Monopoly.”
Jinny Howe, head of scripted series for Netflix in the US and Canada, commented, “Anyone familiar with ‘Catan’ knows that the game’s core strategy holds endless possibilities for engaging drama. We are excited to partner across series, films, animation, and games to bring this universe to life for dedicated fans and newcomers alike.”
The deal was brokered through CAA and Goodman Genow on behalf of Asmodee and Catan GmbH.
