Netflix Acquires ‘Catan’ Rights to Develop Exciting Film and TV Series Adaptations of Popular Board Game

Netflix has secured exclusive global rights to the renowned board game Catan, originally known as The Settlers of Catan. This agreement allows the streaming service to develop a variety of live-action and animated content, including films and scripted series, as well as unscripted projects and video games.

Catan’s Impact and History

First introduced in 1995 by Klaus Teuber, Catan has sold over 45 million copies worldwide and is available in more than 40 languages. Set on a fictional island, Catan challenges players to navigate diverse landscapes and manage resources while dealing with shifting alliances and robbers.

Jinny Howe, Head of Scripted Series for Netflix in the US and Canada, expressed enthusiasm about the potential for storytelling within the game’s strategic framework. She stated, “Anyone who has played Catan knows that the intense strategy at the core of the game has endless opportunities for some serious drama.”

Development Team and Future Projects

The new projects will be produced by a team including Darren Kyman from Asmodee, Pete Fenlon from Catan Studio, and Klaus Teuber’s sons, Guido and Benjamin Teuber. They will collaborate with Roy Lee from Vertigo Entertainment on these adaptations.

Statements from Key Figures

• Thomas Koegler, CEO of Asmodee, highlighted the game’s role in modern board gaming.
• Benjamin and Guido Teuber remarked on the exciting evolution of Catan, emphasizing their father’s vision of community through trading and building.

Netflix’s Broader Adaptation Strategy

This partnership continues Netflix’s relationship with Asmodee, which has previously produced adaptations for other board games. Upcoming projects include:

• Family Pack, a film based on The Werewolves of Millers Hollow.
• Adaptations of popular titles like Ozark, Squid Game, Stranger Things, and Bridgerton.
• Upcoming series such as Assassin’s Creed, Clue, and Monopoly, along with animated adaptations like Magic: The Gathering.

Negotiation Details

The agreement was brokered by CAA and the law firm Goodman, Genow, Schenkman, Smelkinson, and Christopher on behalf of Asmodee and Catan GmbH.

Netflix’s acquisition of Catan rights marks a significant step forward in their adaptations strategy, aiming to engage both long-time fans and new audiences alike.