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 will help you understand the different versions. While each version 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

See it at Amazon
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 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 team's words, avoiding 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 box suggests 2-8 players, it shines with even-numbered groups of four or more.

Codenames Spin-offs

Codenames: Duet

See it at Amazon
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 key card to guide each other. The goal is to uncover 15 spies without hitting an assassin card. It includes 200 new cards compatible with the original game, but stands alone as a complete experience.

Codenames: Pictures

See it at Walmart
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 for a unique experience.

Codenames: Disney Family Edition

See it at Barnes & Noble
MSRP: $24.99 USD
Age: 8+
Players: 2-8
Play Time: 15 mins

Codenames: Disney Family Edition features words and images from Disney films. Double-sided cards allow for gameplay like the original or Pictures version, or a mix of both. It includes a simpler 4x4 grid mode without an assassin card, making it more accessible for younger players.

Codenames: Marvel Edition

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

Codenames: Marvel 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 card selection.

Codenames: Harry Potter

See it at Walmart
MSRP: $24.99 USD
Age: 11+
Players: 2
Play Time: 15 mins

Codenames: Harry Potter is a cooperative two-player game similar to Duet, using images and words from the Harry Potter universe. The added variability of image and word cards makes for engaging gameplay.

Other Versions

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

See them at Amazon and Tabletop Merchant
MSRP: $39.95 USD

These versions offer larger cards for better visibility.

How to Play Codenames Online

See it at Codenames

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

Discontinued Versions

Some Codenames versions are no longer in print, including Codenames: Deep Undercover (an adult-themed version) and Codenames: The Simpsons Family Edition. These may be available from secondhand sellers.

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 are great for two players. Themed versions and XXL sizes cater to various preferences. Check for deals online!