CATAN expansions
Cities & Knights vs Explorers & Pirates
| Question | Cities & Knights | Explorers & Pirates |
|---|---|---|
| Our label | Worth it | Depends on your group |
| Buy order | #2 for CATAN | #4 for CATAN |
| What it adds | Knights, barbarian attacks, commodities, city improvements and progress cards. Game goes to 13 points. | Ships that move freely, hidden islands, and missions: fight pirate lairs, haul fish, and trade spices. |
| What it fixes | Base game feels too simple; adds city upgrades, knights and barbarian attacks. | Open sandbox play feels aimless; adds missions, exploring and pirates. |
| Type | Expansion | Expansion |
| Players | 3–4 players | 2–4 players |
| Rules load | Adds more rules | Adds more rules |
| Best for | Best for experienced groups | Fine for any group |
| What you need | Just the base game | Just the base game |
| Price guide | $40–$60 | $60–$100 |
| More | Cities & Knights details | Explorers & Pirates details |