Launched in 1995, The Settlers of Catan is a multiplayer board game that's since received a host of expansions and videogame tie-ins. Catan VR, as the name might suggest, brings the classic series to virtual reality hardware for the first time.
Developed by Experiment 7 and published by Asmodee Digital, Catan VR tasks players with building, trading, and acquiring resources on the titular Catan island while strapped in to an Oculus Rift or Samsung Gear VR headset. Hear the ocean breeze, watch the sunset, and (almost) smell the crisp sea air as you take on the world—making use of in-game features such as voice chat, touch and gaze controls and cross-platform play in the process.
By liaising closely the Teuber family—the original tabletop's creators—Asmodee Digital has in turn crafted a wonderful experience that stays true to the game's roots while simultaneously bringing it in-line with modern technology. To this end, players can join family and friends all over the planet while capturing the same feeling of camaraderie they'd achieve from playing in person. Series inventor Klaus Teuber even tested this idea first hand by hosting a game with his sons online across three different countries!
Of course, new faces can find and make friends in Catan VR with ease too—such is Asmodee Digital's commitment to not only adapting classic board games in digital form, but also creating new ways to play and enjoy your favourite games in general. Catan VR is just one example of Asmodee Digital's passion for innovation and delivering quality, fulfilling and, crucially, fun experiences.
Here's a brief snippet of Catan VR in motion:
Furthermore, while creating Catan VR, Klaus Teuber provided Asmodee Digital with substantial notes and suggestions on how each individual AI and personality might behave—not least familiar faces such as Candamir, Mary Anne, Nassir and Lin—as players explore new frontiers and venture forth into undiscovered lands.
With so many technologies at our fingertips nowadays, sitting down with a group of friends face-to-face isn't always easy. With this in mind, Catan VR delivers the classic board game experience via state-of-the-art virtual reality hardware straight to your living room.
Play with existing friends or make new ones in Catan VR—available now and coming soon to Oculus Go.
More information can be gleaned from Asmodee Digital’s regular Twitch channel demo broadcasts.
