Short Wave

How The New Catan Board Game Can Spark Conversations On Climate Change

11 snips
Apr 29, 2024
Nate Rott, an NPR correspondent specializing in climate change, joins to discuss the innovative board game Catan: New Energies. They explore how the game mirrors real-world dilemmas around energy use and environmental impacts without directly mentioning climate change. The conversation highlights the game's mechanics that teach players about sustainability and the urgent need for dialogue on pollution. Rott emphasizes the potential of board games to create engaging discussions about serious issues, making complex themes accessible and thought-provoking.
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ANECDOTE

Shared Nerd-dom

  • Emily Kwong and Nate Rott bond over their shared love for board games, particularly Catan.
  • Kwong describes Catan as their generation's Monopoly, highlighting its various spin-offs and widespread popularity.
INSIGHT

Modern Catan

  • Catan: New Energies introduces modern elements like energy production and pollution.
  • Players must balance development with environmental impact, mirroring real-world challenges.
ANECDOTE

Modern Setting

  • Unlike the original Catan, set in the past, Catan: New Energies reflects a modern setting where energy is crucial.
  • Players choose between fossil fuels for faster building or renewables for less pollution.
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