Codenames has surged in popularity as one of the best party board games due to its simple rules and swift gameplay. Unlike many party games that falter with larger groups, Codenames excels with four or more players. But the creators at Czech Games Edition didn’t stop there; they also developed Codenames: Duet, a cooperative version for two players, expanding the game's appeal to different group sizes.
Navigating the numerous versions and spin-offs of Codenames can be daunting, but fear not—this guide will help you choose the right one. Each iteration of Codenames offers a similar experience with slight variations, tailored for different age groups and themed around popular franchises like Marvel, Disney, and Harry Potter.
The Base Game
Codenames
30 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 in a five-by-five grid. Each team appoints a spymaster, who uses a secret key card to guide their team to their spies. The goal is to give one-word clues that lead your team to uncover all nine of your spies first. However, caution is key; selecting the wrong card might aid the opposing team or trigger an instant loss by revealing the assassin card. The brilliance of Codenames lies in its strategic depth, allowing spymasters to decide how many cards their team should guess, balancing risk and reward while keeping an eye on the opposing team's progress.
While Codenames can accommodate two to eight players, it shines with groups of four or more. For those looking to enjoy the game with just one other person, the creators have thoughtfully developed a two-player version.
Codenames Spin-offs
Codenames Duet
8 See it at Amazon | MSRP: $24.95 USD
Age: 11+ | Players: 2 | Play Time: 15 mins
Codenames: Duet transforms the original competitive game into a cooperative experience for two players. Each player takes turns as the spymaster, guiding their partner to uncover 15 spies without hitting one of the three assassin cards. This version not only provides a unique two-player experience but also includes 200 new cards compatible with the base game. It's a standalone product, perfect for those who enjoy the core gameplay of Codenames in a more intimate setting. For more two-player fun, explore our picks for the best two-player board games and the best board games for couples.
Codenames: Pictures
0 See it at Walmart | MSRP: $24.95 USD
Age: 10+ | Players: 2-8 | Play Time: 15 mins
Codenames: Pictures swaps words for images, broadening the scope of clues and lowering the age barrier. This version maintains the original's gameplay but on a five-by-four grid. It's a standalone game, but players can mix picture and word cards from different sets for a more challenging experience. For more family-friendly options, check out our list of the best board games for kids.
Codenames: Disney Family Edition
0 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 to the table with cards featuring words and images from beloved animated films. This version offers flexibility with a four-by-four grid option and no assassin card, making it ideal for younger players and newcomers. It can be played like the original, with pictures, or a mix of both, enhancing its family-friendly appeal.
Codenames: Marvel Edition
0 See it at Walmart | MSRP: $24.99 USD
Age: 9+ | Players: 2-8 | Play Time: 15 mins
Codenames: Marvel Edition immerses players in the Marvel universe, with teams representing S.H.I.E.L.D. and HYDRA. The gameplay remains consistent with the base game or Pictures version, depending on the card side used. It's a thrilling option for Marvel fans looking to engage with their favorite characters in a strategic setting.
Codenames: Harry Potter
0 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, offering a magical twist for two players. The cards feature both images and words from the Harry Potter universe, adding variety to the experience. For more magical fun, see our list of the best Harry Potter board games.
Other Versions
Codenames: XXL
0 See it at Amazon | MSRP: $39.95 USD
Codenames: XXL offers the same gameplay as the base game but with larger cards, perfect for players who need easier-to-read text or enjoy a more visually striking setup.
Codenames: Duet XXL
0 See it at Amazon | MSRP: $39.95 USD
Codenames: Duet XXL mirrors the cooperative two-player experience of Duet but with larger cards, enhancing accessibility and visual appeal.
Codenames: Pictures XXL
0 See it at Tabletop Merchant | MSRP: $39.95 USD
Codenames: Pictures XXL brings the image-based gameplay to a larger format, making it easier for everyone to see and enjoy the game.
How to Play Codenames Online
0 See it at Codenames
Czech Games Edition offers a free online version of Codenames, allowing players to join or create rooms to play with friends. While it may not replicate the in-person experience, it's an excellent option for long-distance gaming, especially when paired with communication tools like Discord. An app version for iOS and Android is also in the works.
Discontinued Versions
Several versions of Codenames have been discontinued, including Codenames: Deep Undercover, an adult-themed version with mature content, and Codenames: The Simpsons Family Edition, themed around the iconic TV show. While no longer in print, these games can still be found through secondhand sellers.
Bottom Line
Codenames stands out as one of the best party games available, with its quick setup, easy-to-learn rules, and engaging gameplay. It's best enjoyed with groups of four or more, but the Duet and Harry Potter versions cater well to two players. Themed iterations cater to fans of various franchises, and the XXL versions offer enhanced readability. For more gaming options, explore our recommendations for the best family board games, and don't forget to check our board game deals page for great discounts at retailers like Amazon and Target.
