Expanding the Catan Universe: Netflix Acquires Global Rights for Film and TV Projects
Netflix has acquired the global rights to the popular board game "Catan" and is now working on developing various projects based on the game. These projects will include films, scripted and unscripted TV shows, as well as live-action and animated content. The productions will be overseen by key figures from game publisher asmodee, Catan Studios, and the Teuber family, who are closely connected to the game's creator, Klaus Teuber.
The CEO of asmodee, Thomas Koegler, expressed excitement about the expansion of the "Catan" universe to a wider audience through Netflix. The game, originally released in 1995 as "The Settlers of Catan," has gained immense popularity over the years, selling millions of copies worldwide and being translated into numerous languages. Players immerse themselves in the fictional island of Catan, where they compete to build settlements and accumulate victory points.
The sons of Klaus Teuber, Benjamin and Guido Teuber, who now lead Catan GmbH, shared their enthusiasm for the collaboration with Netflix, highlighting the game's ability to bring people together through trading, building, and settling. They see this partnership as a new chapter in the game's legacy of fostering creativity, strategy, and human connection on a global scale.
Netflix has a track record of adapting popular games into successful series, such as "Arcane" based on "League of Legends" and "Castlevania." The streaming platform has also announced upcoming projects like a series version of "Assassin's Creed" and a reality competition series inspired by "Monopoly." The head of scripted series for the US and Canada at Netflix, Jinny Howe, emphasized the potential for intense drama and strategic storytelling in the world of "Catan."
The collaboration between Netflix and the creators of "Catan" was facilitated by CAA and Goodman Genow, representing asmodee and Catan GmbH. This partnership signifies a new era for the beloved board game, bringing its rich universe to life for both dedicated fans and newcomers alike.