Codenames: Ultimate Buying Guide and Spin-Offs

Codenames has rapidly emerged as a top pick among the best party board games due to its simple-to-learn rules and fast gameplay. Unlike many games that falter with larger groups, Codenames excels with four or more players. Yet, the creators at Czech Games Edition didn't stop there; they also introduced Codenames: Duet, a cooperative version designed for two players, expanding the game's appeal across different group sizes.

Navigating through the myriad of Codenames spin-offs and re-releases can be daunting. This guide aims to clarify the various versions, making it easier for you to choose the right one. Whether you're looking for a game suitable for younger players, older enthusiasts, or themed editions featuring popular franchises like Marvel, Disney, and Harry Potter, there's a Codenames variant for you.

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 cards with codenames into a five-by-five grid. Each team appoints a spymaster who gives clues based on a secret key card visible only to them. The spymaster's challenge is to provide one-word clues that direct their team to identify as many of their spies as possible, all while avoiding the opponent's spies and the game-ending assassin card. The game's brilliance lies in the spymasters' ability to decide the risk level of their clues, balancing between safe and broad hints to guide their team effectively.

Although the box suggests 2-8 players, Codenames truly shines with groups of four or more. For those interested in a two-player experience, the creators have developed Codenames: Duet.

Codenames Spin-offs

Codenames Duet

### Codenames: Duet

8See it at AmazonMSRP: $24.95 USD

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

Codenames: Duet shifts the gameplay to a cooperative mode, where both players alternate as spymasters using different sides of the same key card. The objective is to uncover 15 spies without hitting any of the three assassin cards. This version not only caters to couples but also includes 200 new cards compatible with the original game. As a standalone game, it requires no additional purchases. For more two-player options, check out our recommendations for the best two-player board games and the best 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 replaces words with images, broadening the scope for clues and lowering the age requirement. This version maintains the core gameplay but uses a five-by-four grid. It can be combined with the original game for a mixed experience. For more family-friendly games, explore our picks 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 features words and images from Disney's animated films, making it more accessible with a four-by-four grid and no assassin card. This version is ideal for younger players and families, offering both word and picture-based gameplay.

Codenames: Marvel Edition

### Codenames: Marvel Edition

0See it at WalmartMSRP: $24.99 USD

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

Codenames: Marvel Edition incorporates the Marvel universe with S.H.I.E.L.D. and HYDRA teams. It can be played with words or images, maintaining the excitement of the original game while adding a superhero twist.

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, set in the magical world of Harry Potter. It uses both images and words for added variety, making it a great choice for fans of the series. For more magical games, see our list of the best Harry Potter board games.

Other Versions

Codenames: XXL

### Codenames: XXL

0See it at AmazonMSRP: $39.95 USD

Codenames: XXL features cards that are twice the size of the original, enhancing visibility for players with visual impairments. This version is a great accessibility option.

Codenames: Duet XXL

### Codenames: Duet XXL

0See it at AmazonMSRP: $39.95 USD

Similar to Codenames: XXL, Codenames: Duet XXL offers larger cards for better readability, catering to players who prefer a more accessible format.

Codenames: Pictures XXL

### Codenames: Pictures XXL

0See it at Tabletop MerchantMSRP: $39.95 USD

Codenames: Pictures XXL provides the same gameplay as Codenames: Pictures but with larger cards, ensuring a more comfortable gaming experience.

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 for virtual play. It's a perfect solution 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

Several Codenames iterations, such as Codenames: Deep Undercover and Codenames: The Simpsons Family Edition, are no longer in print. The former, with its adult-themed content, saw a 2.0 release for better balance, while the latter, themed around The Simpsons, remains available through secondhand sellers.

Bottom Line

Codenames stands out as one of the best party games available, praised for its ease of learning and quick playtime. While it's best enjoyed with four or more players, the Duet and Harry Potter versions cater well to two players. With themed editions and XXL variants, there's a Codenames game for everyone.

For more gaming options, explore our recommendations for the best family board games. Keep an eye on our board game deals page at retailers like Amazon and Target to find these titles at great prices.