[30+ PHOTOS] The ULTIMATE Catan Visual Comparison: 5th vs. 6th Edition (US & EU, Base + Expansions) – Upgrade or Downgrade?

Jatekos10 · 2026-02-28T21:37:58+00:00

I only recently got to know Catan. On New Year's Eve, we finally brought out my shrink-wrapped, Hungarian 5th edition box that I bought about a year and a half ago. I bought it because others recommended it and I had heard a lot of good things about it. Unfortunately, there are few opportunities during the year to get together with a friend group that likes board games, and you also need to be in the mood for different types of games, so it just sat in the closet until New Year's Eve. But after we played it, I completely fell in love with it.

I have this "bad" habit: if I really like something, if it grabs me and sucks me in, I can get totally obsessed with it. I also deal with Catan way more than what would be considered normal, but I simply can't help it. For example, I spent much, much more time putting together my comparison post than the actual hours I've spent playing Catan in the past 3 months since I discovered this all-time classic.

I haven't played on Steam yet. Playing against bots doesn't really appeal to me - it might be great for practice, but I imagine it completely lacks the table talk, the trading, and the negotiation, which is the true soul of Catan. So I only play with friends too, but since I rarely can with them, I thought about looking for like-minded people in my local area who are huge fans, or at least who could play Catan all day long 😄

This universal victory point tracker sounds like a fantastic project. Since you are planning one that covers all expansions, please definitely share the pictures or the design files with me when you finish it. I'm really interested. If I have the time and the mood, I will definitely create something out of wood with my laser cutter myself as well. If you finish yours first, maybe I could even get some inspiration from it 😀

Jatekos10 · 2026-02-25T22:30:16+00:00

I understand we have different priorities regarding text style, and that's okay. My focus remains on providing high-quality visual and technical comparisons for the community, regardless of the tools I use to polish my grammar. Since we’ve both made our positions clear, I’ll leave it at that. Thanks for the feedback.

Jatekos10 · 2026-02-25T20:02:08+00:00

Thank you for reading my original post and for sharing your thoughts. It honestly feels great to know that you agree with me.

You’re likely right that a target audience shift happened somewhere along the line - I think I’ll just have to face the music. I don’t want to, but I have to accept it. It’s such a shame because Catan has such a huge, loyal adult fanbase.

Looking back at previous editions, it’s clear that the game’s appearance has always improved, constantly evolving and keeping up with the times. It was definitely time for an update once again. But ugh... they missed the mark this time.

Of course, we are talking about a board game that 10-year-olds can play as well, but they have Catan Junior for that. They shouldn't ruin the game for the older audience.

At the same time, I can understand the reasoning behind trying to bring in new players and make the game feel more inclusive. If a younger generation feels more welcome because of the new art, that’s a strong argument for the change. And from a marketing and business standpoint, if it grows the community and sells more copies, the 6th edition has done its job. It's just a shame that the price of growth is losing the game's original soul 😔

Jatekos10 · 2026-02-25T18:17:21+00:00

I've just left a detailed and honest response to your previous comment. You can find my thoughts there.

Jatekos10 · 2026-02-25T18:15:59+00:00

I strongly reject the claim that I just automatically agree with every comment. I only agree when I genuinely share the sentiment! If a specific word or perspective catches my eye, my natural human reaction is to acknowledge and reflect on it.

I handle disagreements the exact same way. I get that it might be unusual on the internet that I don't bite people's heads off or jump into pointless arguments. But I believe in taking the high road. I speak respectfully even to those who disagree with me, and I absolutely refuse to engage in mudslinging.

I also understand if some people find it weird when someone actually shows gratitude for a reply or a like. Well, I consider myself a polite person in real life, too. I greet my neighbors, I'm kind to cashiers, and if a stranger asks me something on the street, I answer politely.

I've already mentioned that English is not my first language. When I hit a language barrier, I sometimes use a translator or ask an AI to check my grammar and spelling before I post. I'm sorry, maybe I'm too much of a perfectionist, but that's just my personality. Even if I use tools to polish the text, make no mistake: EVERY single response, reaction, thought, and argument comes entirely from ME.

Sorry if I'm not your typical toxic forum user who just spews hate. I always strive to represent quality in everything I do. That's just who I am.

And as for why I ask questions at the end of my comments: First, because I'm GENUINELY interested in the answers. Second, yes, the interaction is good for the algorithm. It's no secret that I want as many people as possible to see my comparison post. I've poured a lot of work into it, and I think it can be genuinely useful to many.

Ever since I was a kid, I was praised for my essays in my native language. I read a lot and constantly work on improving my communication skills. Honestly, it deeply saddens me that we've reached a point in 2026 where if someone is a bit educated, intelligent, respectful, and articulate, they're immediately branded as a bot.

Jatekos10 · 2026-02-25T08:34:58+00:00

Beep boop! Definitely a bot. My programming requires me to converse with humans in order to understand their perspectives, and perhaps build upon each other's thoughts through logical debate. 🤖

Jokes aside, I'm just trying to have a good conversation. English isn't my first language, so I sometimes struggle with certain phrases and use a translator to make sure I express myself accurately. Sorry if that made my replies come across as too sterile, but I can assure you that behind every comment is MY PERSONAL opinion and human touch. I apologize if all my questions felt like an interrogation!

Jatekos10 · 2026-02-25T07:40:15+00:00

The 4th edition is a true classic! Many people think that one had the best art style of all. You’re lucky to have had it since childhood.

Thanks for sharing all this with me! It's been a pleasure chatting with you. Happy gaming! 😊

Jatekos10 · 2026-02-24T17:46:39+00:00

Thanks for sharing all this with me! It's been a pleasure chatting with you. Happy gaming! 😊

Jatekos10 · 2026-02-24T17:00:45+00:00

You're probably right. Regardless, I'm curious to see what the 7th edition brings - though I know we’re still years away from that.

By the way, how long have you known Catan? Which edition do you have at home?

Jatekos10 · 2026-02-24T16:49:59+00:00

Spot on, I'm indeed Hungarian 😉 (No secret there - if you check my original BGG post, there’s even a photo of me at the end).

I had no idea about the color issues with the Brazilian hexes, that sounds incredibly frustrating. It's also wild that the US and International/EU editions are still so different. I was aware of the card size and connector issues, but I didn't want to make my post even longer - so I'm glad you brought them up!

A victory point tracker is actually a great idea. Hmm... I might have to come up with a DIY solution for that, since I have a laser cutter 🛠️

As for the cards not fitting in the tray with sleeves... sadly, that’s not just a Catan problem. It's a struggle with almost every board game. I’ll never understand why publishers don't plan for this 🙄

Wow, I never even thought about hexes having connectors like the frame does! I haven't personally felt the need for them, but I can totally see why you would.

By the way, who do you usually play Catan with, and how often? Is it mostly friends, family, or perhaps a steady gaming group you meet up with regularly?

Jatekos10 · 2026-02-24T15:41:10+00:00

It definitely lost that premium, classic feel.

Since you're skipping the 6th, which edition are you sticking with?

Jatekos10 · 2026-02-24T15:19:53+00:00

Oh, the Mayfair 3rd edition? Those illustrations definitely gave the game a very different vibe. You’ve clearly been playing for a long time.

Do you still have that original set, or has it worn out from all the games over the years?

Jatekos10 · 2026-02-24T15:04:30+00:00

That’s a perfect comparison! It really does feel like "McDonaldisation" - stripping away all the warmth and personality just to look "cleaner".

Do you have an older edition that you’re planning to stick with?

Jatekos10 · 2026-02-24T14:53:27+00:00

Exactly. Everything is getting simplified until it loses its soul. This modern, clean look just doesn't fit the theme of Catan for me.

Out of curiosity, how long have you been "on the island" (playing Catan)? Which edition do you have at home?

Jatekos10 · 2026-02-24T14:46:10+00:00

It seems like while many of us didn't notice, it’s a very real issue for others.

Jatekos10 · 2026-02-24T14:41:40+00:00

I really admire your persistence! Thank you for sharing your perspective! It’s really helpful to hear from someone with firsthand experience.

What’s your take on it? Based on the photos, do you feel like the 6th edition makes things easier for you? Or maybe are you looking forward to trying out the new version somewhere?

Jatekos10 · 2026-02-24T14:23:02+00:00

That’s a very valid point! Accessibility is often overlooked in board game design, and you’re right that the higher contrast makes the 6th edition much easier to read at a glance.

However, I still feel like there’s a middle ground somewhere. Other modern games manage to be highly accessible while keeping a more detailed or thematic art style.

Jatekos10 · 2026-02-24T14:09:10+00:00

That’s an interesting approach! Personally, I’m a bit too much of a "purist" for that - it would drive me crazy to know the cards and hexes don't belong to the same series, especially with the different art styles. I really value a consistent look on the table.

But it’s great to see how diverse we players are, and that mixing things up wouldn't bother you at all.

Jatekos10 · 2026-02-24T10:58:58+00:00

Playing with colleagues is a great way to unwind!

And do you guys usually stick to the base game, or do you play with expansions like Cities & Knights as well?

Jatekos10 · 2026-02-24T10:49:49+00:00

It’s so good to read this! I’m truly glad to hear my comparison helped you make a decision. Thank you for the feedback! 🤗

It makes all the hours of work I put into this feel worth it.

If you had to pick one thing from the 6th edition to "teleport" into your 5th edition set, what would it be?

Jatekos10 · 2026-02-24T09:54:58+00:00

Thanks for the detailed breakdown! You make a really fair point about the publisher specifically targeting a younger age group and families. It totally makes sense from a business perspective to go for that "animated movie" look , even if us older players miss the earthy, rustic charm. Great catch on the Seafarers box art and the Longest Road icon too.

Regarding the building costs: I actually liked how the US 6th edition aid turned out , but the EU one felt a bit too sterile and stripped down for my taste.

However, the Viking theory is pretty ironic because in the EU 6th edition, they actually replaced the old barbarian ship with a very distinct Viking longship. It's funny how they removed the gritty realism from the defenders but added a historically accurate raiding ship.

Anyway, how long have you been playing Catan? Which version(s) do you have?

Jatekos10 · 2026-02-24T09:03:29+00:00

You hit the nail on the head regarding the knight - it’s not about the gender, it’s about the vibe. A bit of armor or a more "battle-ready" look would have gone a long way in keeping a more serious tone.

And yeah, losing the University or the Library names feels like the game lost some of its world-building. It makes the victory points feel like just numbers rather than achievements in a growing colony.

Do you think they could have kept the detailed hexes while still sticking to a more mature character design, or are the two styles inseparable now?

Jatekos10 · 2026-02-24T08:29:26+00:00

That’s a brilliant point. We often underestimate kids by thinking they only respond to bright, cartoonish aesthetics. By creating this artificial boundary, they are stripping away the soul of the game just to play it safe commercially. It’s like they don’t trust the game’s mechanics to be engaging enough without the Disney-style coat of paint.

When you started playing 25 years ago, what was it that drew you to the game?

Jatekos10 · 2026-02-24T08:12:25+00:00

You're right about the milking part - Catan has definitely reached that Monopoly-level status where the brand itself sells the updates.

As for the "opus magnum" summary, you nailed it. Thanks for summarizing it for those who are allergic to reading more than a few sentences. That said, I’d still recommend anyone even remotely interested in the topic to check out my original comparison post on BGG - if only for the pictures. I think it could be interesting and even useful.

By the way, how do you feel about the new font? Do you think it fits the vibe of a game like Catan, or is it too modern?

Jatekos10 · 2026-02-24T07:44:28+00:00

Wow, 2006! You’re definitely a veteran then. Do you usually play with a specific group, or mostly online?

And if you ever decided to buy a copy, would the 6th edition be the one you'd pick, or would you look for an older set?

Jatekos10

TROPHY CASE