Netflix to adapt Asmodee’s bestselling German board game Catan for screens

Netflix is developing a slate of scripted and unscripted projects inspired by the hit German multiplayer board game Catan, expanding the streamer’s game-to-screen content offering.

Board game Catan

Designed by Klaus Teuber, the game sees players take on the roles of settlers, each attempting to build and develop holdings while trading and acquiring scarce resources as robbers roam the land.

Since its launch in 1995, it has sold more than 45 million units and has been translated into 40-plus languages.

Netflix will now partner with French games publisher Asmodee to bring the first major screen adaptations of the hit brand to audiences. It is hoped the collaboration will yield TV series, films, animation and games.

The projects will be produced by Darren Kyman from Asmodee, Pete Fenlon from Asmodee-owned Catan Studio and Klaus Teuber’s sons, Guido and Benjamin Teuber. Roy Lee from Vertigo Entertainment is also attached to produce.

Netflix has previously adapted French card game The Werewolves of Millers Hollow, which was made into last year’s adventure fantasy film Family Pack, and is currently working on a reality series based on Monopoly.

Jinny Howe, head of scripted series, US and Canada at Netflix, said: “Anyone who has played Catan knows that the intense strategy and negotiation at the core of the game has endless opportunities for some serious drama.

“We knew landing this deal would be as game-changing as a well-placed settlement, so we decided to pool our resources across series, features, animation and games and show Asmodee the full power of Netflix when we work together.”

Thomas Koegler, CEO of Asmodee, said: “Millions of people [have been] 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.

“It’s also a testament that board gaming is truly part of pop culture and a popular form of entertainment in everyone’s homes, and I’m delighted to continue Asmodee’s relationship with Netflix.”