France’s Asmodee has acquired multiplayer gaming platform Board Game Arena and will use it to expand the global reach of its portfolio, which includes games like Catan, Ticket to Ride and Pandemic.

Under the deal, Board Game Arena will continue to operate independently and create online versions of games from other companies. The platform launched in 2010 and now boasts five million members playing more than 250 games in 40-plus languages. A number of Asmodee games, including Jaipur and 7 Wonders (pictured), are already available on Board Game Arena.

In 2020, the platform reported a 600% increase in online players and communities. This growth was reflected throughout the kids industry, with puzzles and board games proving to be a popular activity for families during the pandemic. According to data from research firm Technavio, global board game sales are expected to grow by US$5.81 billion in the next four years.

This deal follows Asmodee Canada’s acquisition of Canadian games distributor Lion Rampant Imports in 2019.