Due to its straightforward rules and swift gameplay, Codenames has swiftly risen to fame as one of the best party board games on the market. While many games in this category falter with larger groups, Codenames shines with four or more players. Yet, the creators at Czech Games Edition didn't stop there; they also introduced Codenames: Duet, a cooperative version designed specifically for two players, expanding the game's appeal even further.
Navigating the array of spin-offs and re-releases in the Codenames series can be daunting, but fear not—we've put together this comprehensive guide to help you choose the perfect version. Regardless of where you start, all iterations of Codenames maintain a similar core gameplay with slight variations. Some editions cater to younger players, others to adults, and several are themed with beloved franchises such as Marvel, Disney, and Harry Potter.
The Base Game
Codenames
See it at Amazon
MSRP: $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 cards with codenames into a five-by-five grid. Each team selects a spymaster who provides clues for that round. These spymasters, seated side by side, draw a key card visible only to them, which outlines the positions of all spies on the grid. The objective is for the spymaster to give one-word clues that guide their team to as many of their spies as possible, alternating turns until one team identifies all nine of their spies.
The challenge lies in giving precise clues to avoid pointing to the opposing team's spies or inadvertently triggering the assassin card, which leads to an instant loss. The genius of Codenames lies in the strategic choice of clues—spymasters can opt for safe, narrow guesses or riskier, broader hints. These decisions must also consider the opposing team's progress. Remember, spymasters are limited to one-word clues, adding an extra layer of complexity.
While the box suggests 2-8 players, Codenames thrives with even-numbered groups of four or more. For those looking for a two-player experience, Czech Games Edition offers Codenames: Duet, which we'll explore next.
Codenames Spin-offs
Codenames Duet
See it at Amazon
MSRP: $24.95 USD
Age: 11+
Players: 2
Play Time: 15 mins
Codenames: Duet maintains the essence of the original game but shifts to a cooperative format. Both players alternate as spymasters, using different sides of the key card to guide their partner to guess cards. The aim is to reveal all 15 spies without touching any of the three assassin cards lurking on the grid.
While the original Codenames excels as a party game, Duet brings the same engaging gameplay to a duo. Additionally, for those who own the base game, Duet introduces 200 new cards that are compatible with the original. It's a standalone box, so no need to worry about owning the first version. For more two-player options, explore our list of the best two-player board games and board games for couples.
Codenames: Pictures
See it at Walmart
MSRP: $24.95 USD
Age: 10+
Players: 2-8
Play Time: 15 mins
Codenames: Pictures switches the game's focus from words to images, enhancing the clue-giving possibilities and potentially lowering the age requirement. Despite the change to a five-by-four grid, the gameplay remains akin to the original. Players with both versions can even mix picture and word cards for a more advanced game. This iteration is also a standalone package, requiring no other games to play.
For more games suitable for younger audiences, check out our recommendations for the best board games for kids.
Codenames: Disney Family Edition
See it at Barnes & Noble
MSRP: $24.99 USD
Age: 8+
Players: 2-8
Play Time: 15 mins
Codenames: Disney Family Edition brings the magic of Disney's animated films to the table with cards featuring both words and images. This version allows for gameplay similar to the original, Pictures, or a mix of both. It also introduces a family-friendly four-by-four grid option without an assassin card, making it more accessible for younger players and newcomers.
Codenames: Marvel Edition
See it at Walmart
MSRP: $24.99 USD
Age: 9+
Players: 2-8
Play Time: 15 mins
Embracing the Marvel universe, this edition features images and words from the popular comic book world. Teams are represented by S.H.I.E.L.D. and HYDRA, adding a thematic twist. Gameplay mirrors the base game or Codenames: Pictures, depending on the card side used.
Codenames: Harry Potter
See it at Walmart
MSRP: $24.99 USD
Age: 11+
Players: 2
Play Time: 15 mins
Codenames: Harry Potter follows the cooperative gameplay of Duet but immerses players in the magical world of Harry Potter. The dual-sided cards offer versatility, similar to other themed editions. For more magical gaming experiences, see our list of the best Harry Potter board games.
Other Versions
Codenames: XXL
See it at Amazon
MSRP: $39.95 USD
Codenames: XXL is simply the base game with larger cards, ideal for those with visual impairments but still manageable for most players across a typical table.
Codenames: Duet XXL
See it at Amazon
MSRP: $39.95 USD
Similar to Codenames: XXL, Duet XXL offers larger cards for the cooperative version, enhancing visibility without altering the gameplay.
Codenames: Pictures XXL
See it at Tabletop Merchant
MSRP: $39.95 USD
The final XXL variant, Codenames: Pictures XXL, features the same gameplay as Pictures but with larger cards for easier viewing.
How to Play Codenames Online
See it at Codenames
Czech Games Edition offers a free online version of Codenames, allowing players to join or create rooms and invite friends. While it may lack the physical interaction of in-person play, it's perfect for remote gaming, especially when paired with communication tools like Discord. An app version for iOS and Android is also on the horizon.
Discontinued Versions
Over time, several Codenames iterations have been discontinued, including Codenames: Deep Undercover and Codenames: The Simpsons Family Edition. Deep Undercover, with its adult themes, saw a 2.0 version for improved balance, while The Simpsons edition, though out of print, remains available through secondhand sellers.
Bottom Line
Codenames stands out as one of the premier party games, thanks to its easy-to-learn rules and brisk 15-minute playtime. Though designed for 2-8 players, it's best enjoyed with groups of four or more. For two-player fun, Codenames: Duet and the Harry Potter version are excellent choices. With a variety of themed editions and larger card options, there's a Codenames version for every player's preference.
For more gaming options, check out our recommendations for the best family board games. Many of the titles mentioned here can often be found below MSRP at retailers like Amazon and Target, so keep an eye on our board game deals page for the best deals on your next purchase.
