Codenames: Ultimate Buying Guide and Spin-Offs

Codenames has rapidly gained a reputation as one of the best party board games due to its easy-to-learn rules and swift gameplay. While many party games struggle to accommodate larger groups, Codenames excels with four or more players. However, the creators at Czech Games Edition didn't stop there; they also introduced Codenames: Duet, a cooperative version designed specifically for two players.

With the numerous spin-offs and re-releases in the Codenames series, it can be challenging to navigate through the options. Our guide aims to help you understand the various versions available. Importantly, there's no wrong starting point with Codenames. Each version retains the core gameplay with slight modifications, catering to different age groups and preferences, including themed editions featuring popular franchises like Marvel, Disney, and Harry Potter.

The Base Game

Codenames

30See it at AmazonMSRP: $24.99 USD

Age: 10+
Players: 2-8
Play 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 gives clues based on a secret key card visible only to them, indicating the positions of their spies. The objective is to guide your team to identify all nine of your spies first, using one-word clues. The challenge lies in giving precise clues to avoid mistakenly revealing the opponent's spies or the game-ending assassin card. Spymasters can choose the number of cards their team attempts to guess, balancing between safety and risk, all while monitoring the opposing team's progress.

Although the box suggests 2-8 players, Codenames shines with even-numbered groups of four or more. For two players, the developers created Codenames: Duet, which we'll explore next.

Codenames Spin-offs

Codenames Duet

8See it at AmazonMSRP: $24.95 USD

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

Codenames: Duet transforms the original's competitive nature into a cooperative experience. Players alternate as spymasters, aiming to uncover 15 spies using clues from different sides of the key card, while avoiding three assassin cards. This version maintains the addictive gameplay of the original for two players and includes 200 new cards compatible with the base game. It's a standalone game, perfect for couples or those interested in the best two-player board games and board games for couples.

Codenames: Pictures

0See it at WalmartMSRP: $24.95 USD

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

Codenames: Pictures replaces words with images, expanding clue possibilities and potentially lowering the age requirement. It uses a five-by-four grid but retains the core gameplay of the original. Players can mix picture and word cards for a more challenging game. This version is also standalone and doesn't require other games, making it a great option for families seeking the best board games for kids.

Codenames: Disney Family Edition

0See it at Barnes & NobleMSRP: $24.99 USD

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

Codenames: Disney Family Edition features words and images from Disney's animated films, playable like the original, Pictures, or a mix of both. It offers a family-friendly four-by-four grid mode 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: 2-8
Play Time: 15 mins

Codenames: Marvel Edition brings the Marvel universe to the game, with teams represented by S.H.I.E.L.D. and HYDRA. It uses images and words from the comic universe, playable like the base game or Pictures, depending on the card side used.

Codenames: Harry Potter

0See it at WalmartMSRP: $24.99 USD

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

Codenames: Harry Potter adapts the Duet gameplay into the magical world of Harry Potter, offering a cooperative experience for two players with cards featuring both images and words. It's a great addition to the collection 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, ideal for those with vision difficulties.

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 game, enhancing accessibility.

Codenames: Pictures XXL

0See it at Tabletop MerchantMSRP: $39.95 USD

Codenames: Pictures XXL is the larger-card version of Codenames: Pictures, ensuring visibility for all players.

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. It's a great way to enjoy the game remotely, especially when paired with communication tools like Discord. An app version for iOS and Android is also in development.

Discontinued Versions

Several Codenames versions are no longer in print, such as Codenames: Deep Undercover and Codenames: The Simpsons Family Edition. The former adds an adult-themed twist with sexual references, while the latter features The Simpsons. Although discontinued, these games can still be found through secondhand sellers.

Bottom Line

Codenames stands out as one of the best party games available, thanks to its simplicity and quick playtime. It's ideally suited for groups of four or more, but Codenames: Duet and the Harry Potter variant are perfect for two players. The series offers various themed iterations and XXL versions for enhanced accessibility. For more gaming options, explore our recommendations for the best family board games. Keep an eye on our board game deals page for great deals on these titles and more at retailers like Amazon and Target.