Catan is coming to virtual reality later this year

Catan will be the next major board game to be digitised for virtual reality, following news that a VR version of the modern classic is in development for the Oculus Rift and Samsung Gear VR headsets.

Catan VR is being helmed by VR studio Experiment 7, with the help of original designer Klaus Teuber – shown donning a Gear VR in the main image – and his son Benjamin, as well as publisher Asmodee’s own digital division.

The new version will render Catan’s titular island in 3D, offering up a selection of environments in which to play the game.

There’ll also be cross-platform multiplayer, meaning those using different VR headsets can play each other, with the announcement also saying players will be able to take on ‘Catan personalities’. Support for further headsets is planned for the future.

“The first time I saw Catan on the Magic Table, I was fascinated by what VR has to offer,” said Teuber. “The game I made in our living room with my family 25 years ago in virtual reality? It’s incredible. I never imagined actually stepping into the world of Catan when we first started making cut-outs and dreaming about exploring new lands.”

Catan VR is due out later this year, with a release around Christmas.