"Codenames: Essential Buying Guide and Spin-Offs Revealed"

Codenames has quickly become a go-to choice among the best party board games due to its simple rules and brisk gameplay. Unlike many games that struggle to accommodate larger groups, Codenames shines with four or more players. Yet, the creators at Czech Games Edition didn't stop there; they also developed Codenames: Duet, a cooperative version designed specifically for two players.

Navigating the array of spin-offs and re-releases in the Codenames series can be daunting. That's why we've put together this comprehensive guide to help you understand the various editions. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned player, Codenames offers a good starting point across all its versions. Each iteration brings slight modifications, making some better suited for younger players, others for older, and some featuring popular franchises like Marvel, Disney, and Harry Potter.

The Base Game

Codenames

30See it at AmazonMSRP: $24.99 USD

Age: 10+
Players: 2-8
Play Time: 15 mins

Each game of Codenames starts with players dividing into two teams and arranging 25 codename cards in a five-by-five grid. Each team appoints a spymaster who will give clues based on a secret key card visible only to them, indicating the positions of their spies. The spymaster's challenge is to provide one-word clues that connect as many of their spies as possible. The game continues until one team successfully identifies all nine of their spies. The twist lies in the spymaster's ability to craft clues that are both broad enough to cover multiple cards yet specific enough to avoid pointing to the opposing team's spies or the game-ending assassin card. The strategic choice between safe and risky clues adds depth to this seemingly simple word association game. While the game officially supports 2-8 players, it truly excels with groups of four or more. For those interested in a two-player experience, Czech Games Edition offers Codenames: Duet, discussed below.

Codenames Spin-offs

Codenames Duet

8See it at AmazonMSRP: $24.95 USD

Age: 11+
Players: 2
Play Time: 15 mins

Codenames: Duet shifts the gameplay from competitive to cooperative, designed for two players. Both players alternate as the spymaster, using different sides of the same key card to guide their partner in uncovering 15 spies without triggering any of the three assassin cards. While the original Codenames is perfect for parties, Duet brings the engaging core mechanics to couples or friends looking for a two-player game. It also includes 200 new cards compatible with the base game, making it a standalone box that doesn't require the original to play. For more two-player options, check out our lists of the best two-player board games and the best board games for couples.

Codenames: Pictures

0See it at WalmartMSRP: $24.95 USD

Age: 10+
Players: 2-8
Play Time: 15 mins

Codenames: Pictures replaces word cards with images, expanding the possibilities for clues and lowering the age requirement by eliminating the need for reading. Despite the change to a five-by-four grid, the gameplay remains similar to the original. Players can even mix picture and word cards for a more advanced game. Like other spin-offs, Codenames: Pictures is a standalone package. For more games suitable for younger players, explore our picks for the best board games for kids.

Codenames: Disney Family Edition

0See it at Barnes & NobleMSRP: $24.99 USD

Age: 8+
Players: 2-8
Play Time: 15 mins

Codenames: Disney Family Edition is a themed version featuring words and images from Disney's animated films. With double-sided cards, it can be played like the original, Pictures, or a mix of both. To make it more family-friendly, this edition offers an easier four-by-four grid mode without an assassin card, making it more accessible for younger players and newcomers.

Codenames: Marvel Edition

0See it at WalmartMSRP: $24.99 USD

Age: 9+
Players: 2-8
Play Time: 15 mins

Codenames: Marvel Edition brings the comic book universe into the game, with teams represented by S.H.I.E.L.D. and HYDRA. It maintains the core gameplay of the base game or Pictures, depending on whether you use the word or image sides of the cards.

Codenames: Harry Potter

0See it at WalmartMSRP: $24.99 USD

Age: 11+
Players: 2
Play Time: 15 mins

Codenames: Harry Potter follows the cooperative gameplay of Duet, tailored for two players. With cards featuring both images and words, it adds variety to the game. For more magical gaming experiences, check out our list of the best Harry Potter board games.

Other Versions

Codenames: XXL

0See it at AmazonMSRP: $39.95 USD

Codenames: XXL offers the same gameplay as the base game but with cards that are twice the size, providing an accessibility option for those with visual impairments.

Codenames: Duet XXL

0See it at AmazonMSRP: $39.95 USD

Similarly, Codenames: Duet XXL provides the cooperative gameplay of Duet with larger cards, enhancing readability without compromising the game's compact nature.

Codenames: Pictures XXL

0See it at Tabletop MerchantMSRP: $39.95 USD

Codenames: Pictures XXL follows suit, offering the image-based gameplay of Pictures with larger, easier-to-see cards.

How to Play Codenames Online

0See it at Codenames

Czech Games Edition has made Codenames accessible online for free. Players can join public rooms or invite friends for private games. While it may lack the tactile feel of the physical version, it's an excellent option for remote play, especially when paired with communication tools like Discord. An app version for iOS and Android is also in development.

Discontinued Versions

Several Codenames iterations have been discontinued, such as Codenames: Deep Undercover and Codenames: The Simpsons Family Edition. Deep Undercover is an adult-themed version with risqué content, with a 2.0 release available for better balance. The Simpsons edition, themed around the iconic TV show, can still be found through secondhand sellers.

Bottom Line

Codenames stands out as one of the best party games on the market, known for its ease of learning and quick playtime of about 15 minutes. It's ideally suited for groups of four or more, but the Duet and Harry Potter editions are excellent for two players. Themed versions cater to fans of various franchises, and the XXL editions offer enhanced readability. For more gaming options, explore our recommendations for the best family board games. Keep an eye on our board game deals page at retailers like Amazon and Target for great discounts on these and other popular titles.