With its easy-to-learn rules and quick playtime, Codenames has swiftly become a top pick among the best party board games. Unlike many games that falter with larger groups, Codenames thrives with four or more players. However, the creators at Czech Games Edition didn't stop there; they expanded the franchise with Codenames: Duet, a cooperative two-player version, ensuring that fans of all group sizes could enjoy the game.
Navigating the myriad of Codenames spin-offs and re-releases can be daunting. This guide aims to help you understand the different versions available. It's worth noting that there isn't a wrong starting point with Codenames. Each version maintains the core gameplay with slight variations. Some cater to younger audiences, others to older players, and several have been themed with popular franchises such as Marvel, Disney, and Harry Potter.
30See it at AmazonMSRP: $24.99 USD
Age: 10+Players: 2-8Play Time: 15 mins
In Codenames, players divide into two teams and arrange 25 cards in a five-by-five grid. Each team appoints a spymaster who gives one-word clues to help their team identify their agents. The spymasters use a secret key card to guide their clues, aiming to lead their team to all nine of their agents before the opposing team does the same. The challenge lies in crafting clues that pinpoint only your team's agents, as guessing incorrectly can reveal the opponent's agents or trigger the game-ending assassin card. Spymasters must balance risk and strategy, deciding how many cards to hint at with each clue. Though the game box suggests 2-8 players, Codenames truly shines with groups of four or more. For those interested in a two-player experience, Codenames: Duet offers a perfect solution.
8See it at AmazonMSRP: $24.95 USD
Age: 11+Players: 2Play Time: 15 mins
Codenames: Duet shifts the gameplay to a cooperative format, designed for two players. Both players alternate as spymasters, using different sides of the same key to guide their partner in finding their 15 agents while avoiding the three assassin cards. This version retains the addictive gameplay of the original but tailors it for a more intimate setting. It also includes 200 new cards compatible with the base game, making it a standalone product that doesn't require the original to play. For more two-player game options, check out our recommendations for the best two-player board games and the best board games for couples.
0See it at WalmartMSRP: $24.95 USD
Age: 10+Players: 2-8Play Time: 15 mins
Codenames: Pictures swaps words for images, broadening the scope of possible clues and potentially lowering the age requirement. This version uses a five-by-four grid but otherwise follows the original's rules. Players can even mix picture and word cards from different sets for a more challenging game. Codenames: Pictures is another standalone product, perfect for those looking for a visual twist on the classic game. For more games suitable for younger players, see our picks for the best board games for kids.
0See it at Barnes & NobleMSRP: $24.99 USD
Age: 8+Players: 2-8Play Time: 15 mins
Codenames: Disney Family Edition brings the magic of Disney to the game with cards featuring words and images from beloved animated films. This version offers flexibility with options to play using words, pictures, or a mix of both. It also includes a simpler four-by-four grid mode without an assassin card, making it more accessible for families and new players.
0See it at WalmartMSRP: $24.99 USD
Age: 9+Players: 2-8Play Time: 15 mins
The Marvel Edition of Codenames brings the world of superheroes to the table, with teams represented by S.H.I.E.L.D. and HYDRA. Players can choose to use the word or image side of the cards, making it versatile like the Disney edition. This version keeps the excitement of the original game while immersing players in the Marvel universe.
0See it at WalmartMSRP: $24.99 USD
Age: 11+Players: 2Play Time: 15 mins
Codenames: Harry Potter follows the cooperative gameplay of Duet, designed for two players. It features cards with both words and images from the Harry Potter universe, adding variety to the game. For more magical game options, check out our list of the best Harry Potter board games.
0See it at AmazonMSRP: $39.95 USD
Codenames: XXL is identical to the base game but with cards that are twice the size, offering better visibility for players with visual impairments. Though the original cards are generally readable, this version is a great accessibility option.
0See it at AmazonMSRP: $39.95 USD
Similar to Codenames: XXL, Codenames: Duet XXL offers the cooperative two-player experience with larger cards. It's an excellent choice for those who prefer bigger cards but still want the intimacy of the Duet version.
0See it at Tabletop MerchantMSRP: $39.95 USD
Codenames: Pictures XXL is the image-based version with larger cards, providing an accessible option for players who enjoy the visual element of the game.
0See it at Codenames
Czech Games Edition offers a free online version of Codenames, allowing players to join rooms or invite friends for remote play. While it may lack the physical interaction of in-person games, it's a fantastic option for long-distance gaming, especially when paired with communication tools like Discord. An app version for iOS and Android is also in development.
Over time, several Codenames iterations have been discontinued. Codenames: Deep Undercover, an adult-themed version with suggestive content, and Codenames: The Simpsons Family Edition, themed around the popular TV show, are no longer in print but can still be found through secondhand sellers. A refined version, Deep Undercover 2.0, is available and offers improved balance.
Codenames stands out as one of the premier party games, offering quick, engaging gameplay that's perfect for groups of four or more. For those interested in a two-player experience, Codenames: Duet and the Harry Potter variant are excellent choices. The game's numerous themed iterations cater to fans of various franchises, and the XXL versions provide an accessible option for those needing larger cards.
For more family-friendly game recommendations, check out our list of the best family board games. Many of the titles mentioned here are available at discounted prices at retailers like Amazon and Target. Keep an eye on our board game deals page to find great deals on your next board game purchase.
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