Netflix building the world of hit boardgame ‘Catan’ with film and TV projects

Netflix is set to bring the world of Catan to life, announcing a sweeping development deal to produce films and television series — both scripted and unscripted — based on the beloved board game.

The streamer has partnered with Asmodee and Catan Studio to create what it calls an “epic storytelling universe” inspired by Klaus Teuber’s iconic strategy game. The upcoming projects will span live-action and animation formats, marking the first-ever screen adaptations of the Catan franchise.

Producers on the slate include Darren Kyman of Asmodee, Pete Fenlon from Catan Studio, and Guido and Benjamin Teuber, sons of the late Catan creator Klaus Teuber. Roy Lee of Vertigo Entertainment is also attached to produce.

“Millions of people have enjoyed Catan since it was created, and for many it remains a gateway to modern board gaming,” said Asmodee CEO Thomas Koegler. “I’m thrilled to see the game expanding to a larger audience who will discover the richness of its universe.”

First published in 1995 as The Settlers of Catan, the award-winning game has sold over 45 million copies worldwide and been translated into more than 40 languages. Players compete to build settlements and trade scarce resources on the fictional island of Catan.

Jinny Howe, Netflix’s head of scripted series for the U.S. and Canada, teased that the adaptation will “bring this world to life for hardcore Settlers and new fans alike,” adding that the strategy and negotiation at the core of Catan offers “endless opportunities for some serious drama.”

Catan joins Netflix’s expanding lineup of game-based adaptations, alongside Arcane, Castlevania, Assassin’s Creed, and the upcoming Monopoly competition series.