"Codenames: Buying Guide and Spin-Offs Unveiled"

Codenames has swiftly risen to prominence as one of the best party board games due to its simple rules and engaging playtime. While many games in this genre falter with larger groups, Codenames flourishes with four or more players. Yet, the creators at Czech Games Edition didn't stop there; they introduced Codenames: Duet, a cooperative version tailored for two players, expanding the game's appeal.

Navigating through the myriad of Codenames spin-offs and re-releases can be daunting, but our comprehensive guide aims to clarify the various versions available. Importantly, there's no wrong starting point with Codenames. Each version maintains the core gameplay with minor tweaks, catering to different age groups and fan bases, including popular franchises like Marvel, Disney, and Harry Potter.

The Base Game

Codenames

Codenames

30See it at AmazonMSRP: $24.99 USD

Age: 10+Players: 2-8Play Time: 15 mins

In Codenames, players divide into two teams and arrange 25 codename cards into a five-by-five grid. Each team appoints a spymaster who, using a secret key card visible only to them, provides one-word clues to guide their team towards identifying their nine spies on the grid. The challenge lies in crafting clues that direct teammates exclusively to their spies, avoiding the rival team's spies and the game-ending assassin card. Spymasters must strategically decide how many guesses to prompt from their team, balancing risk and reward. Although the game supports 2-8 players, it shines with groups of four or more. For those interested in a two-player experience, Codenames: Duet is the perfect alternative.

Codenames Spin-offs

Codenames Duet

Codenames: Duet

8See it at AmazonMSRP: $24.95 USD

Age: 11+Players: 2Play Time: 15 mins

Codenames: Duet transforms the competitive gameplay into a cooperative challenge for two players. Both players alternate as spymasters, using different sides of the key to guide each other to their 15 spies while steering clear of three assassin cards. This version not only caters to couples but also introduces 200 new cards compatible with the base game. For more two-player options, explore our list of the best two-player board games and board games for couples.

Codenames: Pictures

Codenames: Pictures

0See it at WalmartMSRP: $24.95 USD

Age: 10+Players: 2-8Play Time: 15 mins

Codenames: Pictures swaps words for images, broadening the scope for clues and potentially lowering the age requirement. The game retains the core mechanics but uses a five-by-four grid. Players can mix picture and word cards for a varied experience. For more family-friendly options, check out our recommendations for the best board games for kids.

Codenames: Disney Family Edition

Codenames: Disney Family Edition

0See it at Barnes & NobleMSRP: $24.99 USD

Age: 8+Players: 2-8Play Time:

Codenames: Disney Family Edition brings the magic of Disney's animated films into the game with themed cards featuring both words and images. This version offers a four-by-four grid without an assassin card, making it more accessible for younger players and newcomers. It's the perfect blend of fun and familiarity for Disney enthusiasts.

Codenames: Marvel Edition

Codenames: Marvel Edition

0See it at WalmartMSRP: $24.99 USD

Age: 9+Players: 2-8Play Time: 15 mins

Codenames: Marvel Edition immerses players in the Marvel universe, with teams represented by S.H.I.E.L.D. and HYDRA. The gameplay remains consistent with the base game or Pictures, depending on card orientation, offering a thrilling experience for Marvel fans.

Codenames: Harry Potter

Codenames: Harry Potter

0See it at WalmartMSRP: $24.99 USD

Age: 11+Players: 2Play Time: 15 mins

Codenames: Harry Potter adopts the cooperative gameplay of Duet, inviting two players into the magical world of Harry Potter. With dual-sided cards featuring both images and words, this version adds variety to the gameplay. For more magical adventures, browse our list of the best Harry Potter board games.

Other Versions

Codenames: XXL

Codenames: XXL

0See it at AmazonMSRP: $39.95 USD

Codenames: XXL offers the same gameplay as the base game but with cards that are twice the size, enhancing visibility for players with vision impairments. It's an excellent accessibility option for all.

Codenames: Duet XXL

Codenames: Duet XXL

0See it at AmazonMSRP: $39.95 USD

Similar to Codenames: XXL, Codenames: Duet XXL provides larger cards for the two-player cooperative version, ensuring ease of use at any game table.

Codenames: Pictures XXL

Codenames: Pictures XXL

0See it at Tabletop MerchantMSRP: $39.95 USD

Codenames: Pictures XXL mirrors the picture-based gameplay of its standard counterpart but with larger cards, making it an ideal choice for players seeking enhanced visuals.

How to Play Codenames Online

Play Codenames Online

0See it at Codenames

Czech Games Edition offers a free online version of Codenames, allowing players to join rooms or invite friends. While not as interactive as in-person play, it's a fantastic option for remote gaming, especially when paired with communication tools like Discord. An app version for iOS and Android is also on the horizon.

Discontinued Versions

Several Codenames iterations have been discontinued, including Codenames: Deep Undercover and Codenames: The Simpsons Family Edition. The former features adult themes, with a 2.0 version available for better balance. The Simpsons edition, though no longer in print, can still be found through secondhand sellers.

Bottom Line

Codenames stands out as one of the best party games on the market, celebrated for its ease of play and quick sessions. While it excels with groups of four or more, the Duet and Harry Potter versions cater perfectly to two players. Themed editions and XXL variants ensure there's something for everyone. For more family fun, check out our recommendations for the best family board games. Keep an eye on our board game deals page for great savings at retailers like Amazon and Target.