Overview
Catan is one of the most popular strategy board games for game-loving families. To start with a quick overview, the goal of Catan is simple: Build the most successful settlement on an uncharted island. The way players do this is by gathering resources such as wood, brick, sheep, and wheat. You can also block other players from building their settlement in a certain area. Along the way, you earn “victory points,” and the first player to earn 10 victory points wins.
So is Catan a safe game for kids and families to play? The TL;DR is yes — content-wise, there is nothing for parents to be concerned about. If anything, parents will want to know that this game often gets people very competitive, and some kids may need help navigating big emotions as a result. Let’s learn more!
Harmful Content ❗️
Catan itself has very little harmful content that parents need to be concerned about. The biggest risk Catan poses is creating a highly competitive atmosphere. If you talk to a lot of board-game lovers about this game, you might find that it’s a little polarizing — you either love it or you hate it. That’s because it really challenges each player to think strategically, almost like chess. So if you have a child who struggles with being too competitive or sensitive, you may want to take that into account when you play with them.
Language
Catan has no adult language. Again, the only risk of this would be between players when gameplay gets intense or competitive.
Sex
There is no sexual content in Catan.
Violence
Catan does not have any violent content. There are no characters that might face death or injury. It’s solely about gathering resources and acquiring territory.
Positive Value 💫
This game requires tons of useful skills and serves as a great way for kids to learn and practice them. It goes without saying, but this game teaches kids to think strategically and critically. Players are required to plan ahead, adapt to unwanted changes (such as when another player blocks you), and make quick decisions. Players also have to communicate and negotiate with others, as part of the game involves trading resources to advance. Overall, kids learn that their decisions with their resources and territory will have a direct impact on their success.
So, should my kid play it?
We’d say this game is suitable for ages around 9 and up. Younger players may need parental guidance to comprehend the game. But other than that, this game has little to no content concerns for parents.
