Netflix traded some significant resources to secure worldwide rights to “Catan.”
The streaming giant is currently developing projects based on the beloved board game for film, scripted and unscripted television, and both live-action and animation. All projects will be produced by Darren Kyman of game publisher asmodee, Pete Fenlon of Catan Studios (asmodee studio), and Guido and Benjamin Teuber, sons of Catan inventor Klaus Teuber. Vertigo Entertainment’s Roy Lee will also produce.
“Millions of people have enjoyed Catan since its inception, and for many it remains the gateway to modern board gaming. We’re excited to see the game expand to a wider audience who discover the richness of its world. We think it’s exciting for the future of the brand.” said Thomas Koegler, CEO of asmodee. “This is proof that board games are a true part of pop culture and a popular form of entertainment in every household, and we’re thrilled to continue Asmodee’s relationship with Netflix.”
Klaus Teuber originally released Catan in 1995 under the name Settlers of Catan. Since then, the game has become a social phenomenon, selling over 45 million copies worldwide and being translated into over 40 languages. In the game, the player arrives on the fictional island of Catan where he has to acquire resources to expand his settlement and earn victory points to ultimately win.
“When our father Klaus Teuber first introduced Catan 30 years ago, he envisioned an ambitious world where people would come together to trade, build and settle together at the table and beyond,” said Benjamin and Guido Teuber, co-CEOs of Catan GmbH. “This collaboration with Netflix marks an exciting new chapter in that journey. For 30 years, Catan has brought families and friends together around the world, and now we’re thrilled to see it inspire storytelling on a global stage, staying true to our father’s vision of creativity, strategy, and relationships.”
Netflix has a number of projects in development or already released based on both video and board games. The streamer previously aired the acclaimed animated series Arcane, based on League of Legends, as well as an animated adaptation of Castlevania. Just recently, Netflix announced that it had ordered a series of “Assassin’s Creed” and a “Monopoly” reality competition series.
“Anyone who has played Catan knows that the intense strategy at the heart of the game offers endless opportunities for serious drama,” said Ginny Howe, head of scripted series for the US and Canada at Netflix. “We are excited to partner across series, features, animation and games to bring this world to life for die-hard Settlers and new fans.”
The agreement was negotiated by CAA and Goodman Genow on behalf of asmodee and Catan GmbH.
