Codenames: A Comprehensive Guide to the Word-Association Game
Codenames has rapidly gained popularity as a top party board game due to its simple rules and quick playtime. Unlike many games that struggle with larger player counts, Codenames excels with four or more players. Beyond the original, several versions cater to different player preferences and age groups. While each iteration shares a similar core gameplay loop, minor adjustments make some better suited for younger players, others for adults, and some feature popular franchise branding (Marvel, Disney, Harry Potter). No matter where you start, you'll find enjoyable gameplay.
The Core Game: Codenames
- MSRP: $24.99 USD
- Age: 10+
- Players: 2-8
- Playtime: 15 mins
Codenames involves two teams, each selecting a spymaster. 25 codenames are arranged in a 5x5 grid. Spymasters receive a key card revealing the locations of their team's spies (nine per team) and the assassin. Spymasters provide one-word clues to help their team identify their spies. The challenge lies in giving clues that only point to their own team's words, avoiding the assassin and opponent's words. The number of words to guess per clue adds a strategic layer. While playable with 2-8 players, optimal gameplay is achieved with even-numbered groups of four or more.
Codenames Spin-offs
Codenames: Duet
- MSRP: $24.95 USD
- Age: 11+
- Players: 2
- Playtime: 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 towards their 15 shared spies, avoiding three assassin cards. It includes 200 new cards compatible with the base game and is a standalone option.
Codenames: Pictures
- MSRP: $24.95 USD
- Age: 10+
- Players: 2-8
- Playtime: 15 mins
Codenames: Pictures replaces words with images, offering broader descriptive possibilities and potentially lowering the age barrier. It uses a 5x4 grid and is otherwise identical to the original, with the option to mix word and picture cards. It's a standalone game.
Codenames: Disney Family Edition
- MSRP: $24.99 USD
- Age: 8+
- Players: 2-8
- Playtime: Varies
This themed version features Disney words and images on double-sided cards, allowing for gameplay similar to the original or Pictures. It includes a simpler 4x4 grid mode without an assassin card for younger players.
Codenames: Marvel Edition
- MSRP: $24.99 USD
- Age: 9+
- Players: 2-8
- Playtime: 15 mins
The Marvel Edition features Marvel words and images, with teams representing S.H.I.E.L.D. and HYDRA. Gameplay mirrors the base game or Codenames: Pictures.
Codenames: Harry Potter
- MSRP: $24.99 USD
- Age: 11+
- Players: 2
- Playtime: 15 mins
This cooperative two-player version follows the Duet gameplay, using Harry Potter themed words and images.
Larger Card Versions: XXL
XXL versions exist for the base game, Duet, and Pictures, offering larger cards for better visibility.
Online Play
A free online version is available, allowing for remote play with friends.
Discontinued Versions
Several versions, including Codenames: Deep Undercover (adult-themed) and Codenames: The Simpsons Family Edition, are no longer in print but may be found secondhand.
Conclusion
Codenames is a highly recommended party game, easily taught and played quickly. While ideal for groups of four or more, Duet and the Harry Potter version provide excellent two-player options. The variety of themed versions and XXL options cater to diverse preferences.
