Codenames: Board Game Buying Guide and Spin-Offs

Codenames has quickly become a favorite party board game, thanks to its easy-to-learn rules and fast playtime. Unlike many games that struggle with larger groups, Codenames thrives with four or more players. But the fun doesn't stop there! The creators also developed Codenames: Duet, a cooperative version perfect for two players.

Navigating the various Codenames spin-offs can be tricky. This guide helps you understand the different versions. While each iteration offers minor variations, the core gameplay remains consistent. Some versions are better suited for younger players, while others cater to older audiences. Several feature popular franchises like Marvel, Disney, and Harry Potter.

The Base Game

Codenames

MSRP: $24.99 USD
Age: 10+
Players: 2-8
Play Time: 15 mins

Codenames starts with two teams, each choosing a spymaster. 25 codenames are arranged in a 5x5 grid. Spymasters secretly view a key card showing the location of their team's spies (nine per team), the assassin, and the opponent's spies. The spymaster gives one-word clues to help their team guess their spies. The challenge lies in giving clues that only lead to their own team's words, avoiding the assassin and opponent's words. The first team to identify all their spies wins.

While playable with 2-8 players, Codenames shines with even-numbered groups of four or more.

Codenames Spin-offs

Codenames: Duet

MSRP: $24.95 USD
Age: 11+
Players: 2
Play Time: 15 mins

Codenames: Duet is a cooperative two-player version. Both players act as spymasters, using different sides of a shared key card to guide each other. The goal is to uncover 15 spies without hitting an assassin card (three in this version). It includes 200 new cards compatible with the base game, making it a standalone option.

Codenames: Pictures

MSRP: $24.95 USD
Age: 10+
Players: 2-8
Play Time: 15 mins

Codenames: Pictures replaces words with images, offering broader descriptive possibilities and potentially lowering the age requirement. It uses a 5x4 grid and plays similarly to the original, with the option to combine word and picture cards.

Codenames: Disney Family Edition

MSRP: $24.99 USD
Age: 8+
Players: 2-8
Play Time: Varies

This Disney-themed edition features words and images from Disney films. Double-sided cards allow play like the original or Pictures version, or a mix. It offers a simpler 4x4 grid mode without an assassin card, making it more accessible for younger players.

Codenames: Marvel Edition

MSRP: $24.99 USD
Age: 9+
Players: 2-8
Play Time: 15 mins

Featuring Marvel characters and imagery, this version pits S.H.I.E.L.D. against HYDRA. It plays like the base game or Codenames: Pictures, depending on the card side used.

Codenames: Harry Potter

MSRP: $24.99 USD
Age: 11+
Players: 2
Play Time: 15 mins

A cooperative two-player game (like Duet), using images and words from the Harry Potter universe.

Other Versions

Codenames: XXL, Codenames: Duet XXL, Codenames: Pictures XXL

These versions feature larger cards for better visibility.

How to Play Codenames Online

Czech Games Edition offers a free online version, allowing for online play with friends.

Discontinued Versions

Some versions, like Codenames: Deep Undercover (an adult version) and Codenames: The Simpsons Family Edition, are no longer in print but may be available secondhand.

Bottom Line

Codenames is a fantastic party game, easy to learn and quick to play. While best with four or more, Duet and the Harry Potter version provide excellent two-player experiences. Themed versions and XXL options cater to various preferences.