Codenames has swiftly earned its reputation as one of the top choices among party board games thanks to its straightforward rules and rapid playtime. Unlike many others in the genre, which often struggle to accommodate large groups, Codenames shines with teams of four or more players. The creators took it a step further by launching Codenames: Duet, a cooperative version designed specifically for two players.

With numerous spin-offs and re-releases available in the Codenames series, navigating through them can be challenging. To simplify, we’ve put together this comprehensive guide to help you explore the various versions. Keep in mind that every iteration plays similarly, with slight adjustments to suit different audiences. Some cater to younger gamers, while others appeal to older crowds. Additionally, several versions feature popular franchises like Marvel, Disney, and Harry Potter for added excitement.

The Base Game

Codenames

Codenames

30
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MSRP: $24.99 USD

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

Each round of Codenames kicks off with players splitting into two teams and arranging 25 codename cards in a five-by-five grid. Each team selects a spymaster who gives one-word clues to guide their teammates toward guessing the correct cards. Spymasters refer to a key card showing the layout of all spy locations. The aim is to identify all nine spies on your team without triggering the assassin card, which results in an immediate loss.

What makes this deceptively simple word game so engaging is the strategic depth involved. Spymasters must craft clues that steer their team toward their spies while avoiding those of the opposing team. They can opt for safer, narrower clues targeting fewer cards or take risks with broader hints covering more ground. These decisions depend on assessing the opponent's moves. Remember, spymasters are limited to single-word clues.

Although the box suggests Codenames accommodates two to eight players, it performs optimally with even numbers of four or more. Fortunately, Czech Games Edition developed an excellent two-player adaptation, which we'll discuss shortly.

Spin-off Variants

Codenames: Duet

Codenames: Duet

8
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MSRP: $24.95 USD

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

Codenames: Duet mirrors the original game but shifts focus to cooperative play for two individuals. Both players alternate as spymasters, aiming to guide their partner to uncover 15 spies across both grids without encountering the three lurking assassin cards.

While Codenames excels as a social gathering game, Duet delivers the same addictive gameplay to solo enthusiasts. Moreover, owners of the original can enjoy 200 new cards included in Duet that integrate seamlessly with the base game. As a standalone product, no prior ownership is required. For additional suggestions on enjoyable two-player experiences, check out our picks for the best two-player board games and the best board games for couples.

Codenames: Pictures

Codenames: Pictures

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MSRP: $24.95 USD

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

Codenames: Pictures swaps text for imagery, offering a fresh twist. Images provide richer material for description, expanding potential keywords. Furthermore, eliminating reading requirements lowers the suggested minimum age. For tailored options for younger audiences, refer to our curated list of the best board games for kids.

Except for shifting to a five-by-four grid, Pictures adheres closely to the original format. Players owning both versions can blend picture and word cards for varied sessions. Similar to other standalone releases, Pictures operates independently without needing complementary sets.

Codenames: Disney Family Edition

Codenames: Disney Family Edition

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MSRP: $24.99 USD

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

Codenames: Disney – Family Edition showcases words and visuals inspired by Disney’s animated classics. Dual-sided cards enable traditional gameplay, Picture-style interaction, or mixed modes. To enhance accessibility, this edition includes a simplified four-by-four grid sans assassin card.

Codenames: Marvel Edition

Codenames: Marvel Edition

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MSRP: $24.99 USD

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

Codenames: Marvel Edition integrates elements from the Marvel universe, featuring images and terms from iconic comics. Team affiliations shift to S.H.I.E.L.D. and HYDRA instead of generic colors. Gameplay aligns closely with the base game or Pictures, contingent upon selected card sides.

Codenames: Harry Potter

Codenames: Harry Potter

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MSRP: $24.99 USD

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

Unlike previous themed editions, Codenames: Harry Potter adopts Duet’s cooperative framework for two participants. Cards combine text and images, providing enhanced variability. For further enchanting ideas, consult our selection of the best Harry Potter board games.

Additional Formats

Codenames: XXL

Codenames: XXL

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MSRP: $39.95 USD

Codenames: XXL mirrors the base game but features enlarged cards. Ideal for players with visual impairments, this version ensures readability for most users.

Codenames: Duet XXL

Codenames: Duet XXL

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MSRP: $39.95 USD

Analogous to Codenames: XXL, this edition magnifies cards for improved visibility without compromising table space.

Codenames: Pictures XXL

Codenames: Pictures XXL

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MSRP: $39.95 USD

Codenames: Pictures XXL replicates the original Pictures format with expanded card dimensions.

Online Play

Play Codenames Online

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Czech Games Edition offers a free digital version of Codenames where players can join virtual rooms or invite pals remotely. Although face-to-face interaction trumps online engagement, this platform proves invaluable for distant friends, especially paired with Discord for seamless communication. An upcoming mobile application promises enhanced convenience for iOS and Android devices.

Out-of-Print Titles

A few Codenames variants have ceased production, such as Codenames: Deep Undercover and Codenames: The Simpsons Family Edition. The former targets mature audiences with risqué content, while its updated 2.0 edition emphasizes balanced mechanics. Conversely, Codenames: The Simpsons Family Edition combines licensed characters with standard gameplay.

Conclusion

Codenames reigns supreme as one of the finest party board games available. Its simplicity and brevity make it ideal for gatherings, particularly groups exceeding four members. Meanwhile, Duet and Harry Potter adaptations cater admirably to duos. Numerous themed editions cater to franchise enthusiasts, and enlarged cards address accessibility concerns.