For Series and Films: Netflix Secures Rights to "The Settlers of Catan"

Netflix has secured the rights to the board game "The Settlers of Catan" and plans to produce content based on it, including films and television series. This is evident from from a statement by the French game publisher Asmodée Editions, which holds worldwide rights to Catan's English-language content. The development of the planned projects will reportedly be led by two managers from Asmodée, as well as Guido and Benjamin Teuber, two sons of Catan's creator Klaus Teuber. According to Asmodée CEO Thomas Koegler, Netflix's acquisition of rights is proof that board games are truly a part of pop culture.

Successful for 30 Years

"The Settlers of Catan" was released exactly 30 years ago and won several awards in the year of its release, including "Game of the Year". Ten years ago, the extremely successful and popular title was renamed "Catan – Das Spiel". In its country of origin, Germany, the rights are held by Kosmos-Verlag, which speaks of a "game of the century" for the round birthday. The game is about settling the island of the same name, clever management and trading of limited resources, and strategic interaction with competitors. The first player to accumulate victory points wins. The original game now has numerous expansions, and digital versions are also available.

It is unclear how exactly the board game will be adapted for Netflix's streaming service. Jinny Howe from the US company explains that anyone who has played Catan knows that "the intense strategy at the core of the title offers endless possibilities for serious drama." They want to bring this to life with series, feature films, animations, and games for "hardcore Settlers" as well as new fans. Catan has connected families and friends around the world, and now the game will inspire storytelling worldwide, add Guido and Benjamin Teuber. This is entirely in line with their father's "vision of creativity, strategy, and interpersonal relationships."

For Netflix, the plans for Catan are not their first foray into games and board games. There is also an adaptation of "Castlevania," as well as a film based on the card game "The Werewolves of Düsterwald." In the spring, it was also announced that Netflix will develop a reality TV show, based on "Monopoly". However, it is still unclear how exactly "The Settlers of Catan" will be adapted. According to the announcement, both scripted projects and reality formats are planned.

Read also

"Let Them Trade": Accessible build-up strategy with flaws

(mho)