Codenames: Board Game Buying Guide and Spin-Offs

Codenames has rapidly become a favorite party board game, praised for its simple rules and quick playtime. Unlike many games that struggle with larger groups, Codenames shines 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 explore the different versions. While each iteration offers a slightly unique experience, the core gameplay remains consistent. Some versions cater to younger players, others to adults, and many 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 selecting a spymaster. 25 codenames are arranged in a 5x5 grid. Spymasters secretly view a key card revealing their team's spies. The spymaster gives one-word clues to help their team guess their agents (nine total) without selecting the assassin card (which results in an immediate loss). The number of words to guess adds a strategic layer, balancing risk and reward. While the game accommodates 2-8 players, it truly 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 offers a cooperative experience for two players. Both players act as spymasters, using different sides of the same key card to guide each other. The goal is to locate 15 agents without encountering any of the three assassin cards. This standalone game includes 200 new cards compatible with the original Codenames.

Codenames: Pictures

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

Codenames: Pictures replaces words with images, offering a different approach to clue-giving. This visual element expands keyword possibilities and potentially lowers the age requirement. It uses a 5x4 grid and is fully compatible with the original word cards.

Codenames: Disney Family Edition

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

This Disney-themed version features words and images from Disney animated films. Double-sided cards allow for gameplay similar to the original or Pictures version, or a mix of both. It also includes 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 edition offers gameplay mirroring the original or Pictures version. Teams are represented by S.H.I.E.L.D. and HYDRA.

Codenames: Harry Potter

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

This cooperative two-player game follows the Duet gameplay, using both images and words from the Harry Potter universe.

Other Versions

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

These versions are identical to their standard counterparts but feature larger cards for improved readability.

How to Play Codenames Online

Czech Games Edition offers a free online version of Codenames, allowing for online play with friends. An app version is also planned for iOS and Android.

Discontinued Versions

Several Codenames versions are no longer in print, including Codenames: Deep Undercover (an adult-themed 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 suited for groups of four or more, Duet and the Harry Potter version provide excellent two-player options. Themed editions and XXL versions cater to various preferences, making Codenames a versatile and enjoyable game for a wide range of players.