Codenames: Board Game Buying Guide and Spin-Offs

Codenames has quickly become a favorite party board game, thanks to its simple 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 see a key card revealing their team's spies. The spymaster gives one-word clues to help their team guess their spies (nine total) without guessing the assassin card. The number of words to guess adds a strategic layer, balancing risk and reward. While the box suggests 2-8 players, it's best 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 experience. 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 total). It includes 200 new cards compatible with the original game and is 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 more descriptive possibilities and potentially lowering the age requirement. It uses a 5x4 grid and plays like the original; word and picture cards can even be mixed. This is 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 play like the original or Pictures version, or a mix. It offers a simpler 4x4 grid mode without an assassin card for younger players.

Codenames: Marvel Edition

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

Codenames: Marvel Edition uses Marvel characters and words. Teams are S.H.I.E.L.D. and HYDRA. Gameplay mirrors the base game or Codenames: Pictures, depending on card side selection.

Codenames: Harry Potter

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

Codenames: Harry Potter follows the Duet gameplay, offering a cooperative two-player experience with both images and words.

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 of Codenames. Players can join rooms or invite friends.

Discontinued Versions

Some Codenames versions are no longer in print, including Codenames: Deep Undercover (an adult version) and Codenames: The Simpsons Family Edition.

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 options cater to various preferences.