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 releases can be tricky. This guide helps you understand the different versions. While each iteration plays similarly, minor tweaks cater to different age groups and preferences. Some 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 see a key card revealing their team's spies. The spymaster gives one-word clues to help their team guess their spies. The challenge lies in giving clues that only point to their own team's words, avoiding the assassin card which ends the game. Spymasters choose how many words their team should guess, balancing risk and reward. The first team to locate all nine of their spies wins.
While the box suggests 2-8 players, Codenames shines with even-numbered groups of four or more. For two-player fun, check out Codenames: Duet.
Codenames Spin-offs
Codenames: Duet
MSRP: $24.95 USD
Age: 11+
Players: 2
Play Time: 15 mins
Codenames: Duet is a cooperative two-player experience. Players take turns being the spymaster, using different sides of the same key card to guide their partner. The goal is to uncover 15 spies without hitting an assassin card. This version includes 200 new cards compatible with the original game, and is also a standalone game.
Codenames: Pictures
MSRP: $24.95 USD
Age: 10+
Players: 2-8
Play Time: 15 mins
Codenames: Pictures uses images instead of words, offering more descriptive possibilities and potentially lowering the age requirement. It plays like the original, using a 5x4 grid, and cards can be mixed with the word version. It's also a standalone game.
Codenames: Disney Family Edition
MSRP: $24.99 USD
Age: 8+
Players: 2-8
Play Time: Varies
Codenames: Disney Family Edition features words and images from Disney films. Double-sided cards allow for word-only, image-only, or mixed gameplay. It includes an easier 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
This Marvel-themed edition uses images and words from the Marvel universe. Teams are represented by S.H.I.E.L.D. and HYDRA. Gameplay mirrors the base game or Codenames: Pictures depending on the card side used.
Codenames: Harry Potter
MSRP: Varies
Age: 11+
Players: 2
Play Time: 15 mins
Codenames: Harry Potter is a cooperative two-player game (like Duet), featuring images and words from the Harry Potter universe. It offers more variability in gameplay.
Other Versions
Codenames: XXL
MSRP: $39.95 USD
Identical to the base game, but with larger cards for better visibility.
Codenames: Duet XXL
MSRP: $39.95 USD
Larger-card version of Codenames: Duet.
Codenames: Pictures XXL
MSRP: $39.95 USD
Larger-card version of Codenames: Pictures.
How to Play Codenames Online
Czech Games Edition offers a free online version of Codenames, allowing for online play with friends or joining public rooms. An app version is planned for iOS and Android.
Discontinued Versions
Some Codenames versions are no longer in print, including Codenames: Deep Undercover (an adult version) and Codenames: The Simpsons Family Edition. These may still be available from secondhand sellers.
Bottom Line
Codenames is a fantastic party game, easy to learn and quick to play. While best for groups of four or more, Codenames: Duet and the Harry Potter version offer excellent two-player options. Themed editions and XXL versions cater to various preferences. Check for deals on Amazon and Target.
