Reynolds later stated, regarding the board game, "The design is so elegant you can teach someone to play in minutes and then spend years trying to master it.

This was the original design intent, but one which couldn't be implemented due to the necessity to include only a finite number of physical cards in game boxes.

Unlike many games which keep the TrueSkill level of the players hidden, Catan displays the calculated current values on one of the leaderboards.

Similar devices, referred to as "Fooms", were previously available in the Hardwood series of Xbox Live Arcade games.

These can be used as an alternative to voice chat (which is supported but not required) in order to, for example, encourage opponents to "sweeten a deal" or warn that they are too close to winning.

[5] On June 13, 2007, a "Generals" AI expansion pack was released which added additional computer-controlled opponents, including Joan of Arc, Hannibal, and Tokugawa.

While those who enjoy slower-paced strategy games will likely find the title a good value, the pace won't appeal to players who demand more action.

Contrary to published critical reviews, however, customer reaction had been strongly positive,[7][19] with the game debuting third in sales in its first week of availability.