De Kolonisten van Catan: De Woestijnruiters

About this expansion

De Kolonisten van Catan: De Woestijnruiters is a separately sold expansion for Catan for 3–6 players, with a play time of 90 minutes. Released in 2005, it is part of the Catan series and is derived from the scenario “Die Steppenreiter” from das Buch zum Spielen.

In the north-west of Catan, riders lie in ambush. The inhabitants can see the threat approaching, but there is little they can do to prevent it. Their only escape is to leave the mainland and flee overseas to one of the small islands.

Once the frightened settlers have escaped, the barbarian riders emerge and spread across the land. Their advance leaves destruction in its wake, putting every part of Catan at risk.

Cities, villages, and landscapes are all vulnerable. The scenario creates a dramatic setting focused on the approaching invasion and the desperate flight of Catan’s inhabitants. Rather than facing a quiet expansion of the familiar setting, players are placed in a land threatened by riders who cannot be safely ignored.

As an expansion, De Kolonisten van Catan: De Woestijnruiters belongs to the wider Catan family and adds this distinct scenario to the base game. Its story of ambush, escape, islands, and devastation gives Catan a darker, more urgent atmosphere.

For groups looking for a Catan experience built around an advancing barbarian threat, this expansion presents a clear narrative: recognise the danger, flee the mainland, and endure the riders’ spread across the land.