The beloved board game CATAN, formerly known as The Settlers of Catan, is refreshing its appearance with an exciting new edition set to launch this week. Since its debut in 1995, CATAN has become a cornerstone of modern board gaming, significantly influencing the Euro-style genre and shaping the gaming landscape. This year marks the game’s 30th anniversary, and CATAN Studio, alongside Asmodee, is commemorating this milestone with a remarkable reimagining of the classic.
Despite the makeover, CATAN: 6th Edition retains the familiar mechanics that players love. Participants will still compete for victory points by constructing settlements and roads while collecting resources from a variety of tiles. This new edition also boasts a fresh visual design, prioritizing inclusivity and sustainability to broaden its appeal.
“CATAN has always been a game about strategy, challenge and connection,”stated Guido Teuber, CEO of CATAN GmbH, in the announcement about the release. “With this evolution of the game, we are modernizing the CATAN brand, opening the doors to new audiences, and breaking down barriers to get people who may have never played a board game before excited about CATAN.”
Discover the Innovations in CATAN: 6th Edition
Visual and Tactile Enhancements with Classic Rules
The 6th Edition introduces modern artwork characterized by vibrant colors and diverse character representations. Additionally, significant changes to packaging include the reduction of plastic materials and reimagined box trays. Notably, the hex tiles that form the island of Catan now feature a textured surface, enhancing tactile interaction. The game also includes new “premium”card trays for improved organization, and the storage has been designed to accommodate the 5-6 Player Extension Pack, facilitating transport for players.
Importantly, the fundamental rules of CATAN remain unchanged. Players can expect to engage with the well-known gameplay dynamics. However, an updated rulebook simplifies the onboarding process for newcomers, making it more accessible.
“For CATAN’s 6th edition, we aimed to enhance the player experience while preserving the game’s core mechanics,”remarked Benjamin Teuber, managing director and game designer at CATAN GmbH. “With updated packaging, refreshed artwork, and a streamlined rulebook, we’re honoring our father’s legacy while making the game more approachable for new and longtime players alike.”
Our Perspective: CATAN Evolves with Its New Edition
No Need for New Rules, Just Fresh Artwork
CATAN has proven to be a timeless classic that doesn’t necessitate constant rule revisions to maintain its relevance. By opting to retain the original rules while introducing a new edition, CATAN Studio effectively honors its heritage. The visual enhancements add a modern flair that keeps the game looking fresh, yet the experience remains firmly rooted in the classic gameplay that players have cherished. Whether it’s the familiar sheep-for-wood trades or strategic decisions that spark laughter and competition, CATAN continues to engage players across all generations.
Source: CATAN (press release)