Due to its straightforward rules and quick gameplay, Codenames has emerged as a top choice among the best party board games. While many games in this category struggle to accommodate more than a few players, Codenames shines with groups of four or more. Yet, the creators at Czech Games Edition didn't stop there; they also developed Codenames: Duet, a cooperative two-player version that extends the fun to smaller gatherings.
With numerous spin-offs and re-releases, navigating the Codenames series can be daunting. This guide is designed to help you understand the different versions of the game. No matter where you start with Codenames, you're in for a great time. The various editions offer similar gameplay with slight variations, catering to different age groups and featuring popular franchises like Marvel, Disney, and Harry Potter.
The Base Game
Codenames
30See it at AmazonMSRP: $24.99 USD
Age: 10+Players: 2-8Play Time: 15 mins
Each game of Codenames starts with players dividing into two teams and arranging 25 codename cards into a five-by-five grid. Each team selects a spymaster who gives clues for their team throughout the game. These spymasters, seated side by side, use a key card visible only to them to guide their teams. The key card reveals the positions of all spies on the grid. The spymaster's challenge is to provide one-word clues that direct their team to as many of their spies as possible, aiming to uncover all nine before the opposing team.
The game's simplicity belies its depth; the key is giving clues that pinpoint only your team's spies. A wrong guess can benefit the other team or trigger an instant loss by revealing the assassin card. The beauty of Codenames lies in the spymaster's strategic choices—whether to offer a safe, narrow clue or a risky, broad one. These decisions must also consider the opposing team's progress. Remember, spymasters are limited to one-word clues.
Though the box suggests two to eight players, Codenames thrives with even-numbered groups of four or more. Fortunately, Czech Games Edition also offers a two-player version, which we'll explore next.
Codenames Spin-offs
Codenames Duet
8See it at AmazonMSRP: $24.95 USD
Age: 11+Players: 2Play Time: 15 mins
Codenames: Duet transforms the original competitive game into a cooperative experience for two players. Both players alternate as spymasters, using different sides of the same key to guide their partner in uncovering 15 spies without hitting any of the three assassin cards.
While the original Codenames excels as a party game, Duet brings the same engaging gameplay to duos. It also includes 200 new cards compatible with the base game, yet it stands alone as a complete package. If you're seeking more games for two, check out our picks for the best two-player board games and the best board games for couples.
Codenames: Pictures
0See it at WalmartMSRP: $24.95 USD
Age: 10+Players: 2-8Play Time: 15 mins
Codenames: Pictures replaces words with images, a change that broadens the range of potential clues and may lower the age requirement. This version uses a five-by-four grid but retains the core gameplay of the original. Players can even mix picture and word cards for a more challenging game. Like other spin-offs, Codenames: Pictures is a standalone game.
For more family-friendly options, see our recommendations for the best board games for kids.
Codenames: Disney Family Edition
0See it at Barnes & NobleMSRP: $24.99 USD
Age: 8+Players: 2-8Play Time:
Codenames: Disney Family Edition infuses the classic game with Disney magic, featuring words and images from the studio's animated films. The double-sided cards allow for gameplay similar to the original or Pictures, or a mix of both. This version also introduces a simpler four-by-four grid without an assassin card, making it more accessible for younger players and newcomers.
Codenames: Marvel Edition
0See it at WalmartMSRP: $24.99 USD
Age: 9+Players: 2-8Play Time: 15 mins
Codenames: Marvel Edition brings the Marvel universe into play, with teams represented by S.H.I.E.L.D. and HYDRA. Like the Disney version, it uses cards with both images and words, and can be played similarly to the base game or Pictures, depending on the card side chosen.
Codenames: Harry Potter
0See it at WalmartMSRP: $24.99 USD
Age: 11+Players: 2Play Time: 15 mins
Codenames: Harry Potter adapts the Duet gameplay for a magical, cooperative experience. Featuring both images and words from the Harry Potter universe, this version adds variety to the two-player game. For more magical gaming options, check out our list of the best Harry Potter board games.
Other Versions
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 visual impairments. The base game's cards are generally sufficient, making XXL a great accessibility option.
Codenames: Duet XXL
0See it at AmazonMSRP: $39.95 USD
Codenames: Duet XXL mirrors the larger card format of Codenames: XXL, catering to those who prefer larger cards for the two-player cooperative game.
Codenames: Pictures XXL
0See it at Tabletop MerchantMSRP: $39.95 USD
Codenames: Pictures XXL follows suit, providing the picture-based game with larger cards for easier viewing.
How to 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 ideal for remote gaming, especially when paired with communication tools like Discord. An app version for iOS and Android is also in the works.
Discontinued Versions
Over time, several Codenames versions have been discontinued, such as Codenames: Deep Undercover and Codenames: The Simpsons Family Edition. The former is an adult-themed version with mature content, while the latter features The Simpsons. Both can still be found through secondhand markets.
Bottom Line
Codenames stands out as one of the best party board games due to its easy-to-learn rules and quick playtime. It's ideal for groups of four or more, but the Duet and Harry Potter versions are perfect for two players. With various themed editions and XXL options for easier readability, there's a Codenames version for everyone.
For more family-friendly gaming options, explore our recommendations for the best family board games. Keep an eye on our board game deals page to find many of these titles at discounts from retailers like Amazon and Target.
