Codenames: Board Game Buying Guide and Spin-Offs

Codenames: A Comprehensive Guide to the Word Association Game

Codenames' simple rules and quick playtime have made it a top party game choice. Unlike many games limited to a few players, Codenames shines with four or more. Beyond the original, several versions cater to different player counts and preferences. While each iteration shares the core gameplay, minor adjustments make some better suited for younger or older players, or themed around popular franchises like Marvel, Disney, and Harry Potter. No matter where you start, you'll find an enjoyable experience.

The Core Game: Codenames

• MSRP: $24.99 USD
• Age: 10+
• Players: 2-8
• Playtime: 15 mins

Two teams compete, each selecting a spymaster. 25 codenames are arranged in a 5x5 grid. Spymasters see a key card revealing their team's spies and the assassin. They give one-word clues to help their team guess their spies. Guessing the wrong codename could help the opposing team or trigger an immediate loss by revealing the assassin. The strategic element lies in balancing clue breadth and the number of guesses requested. Optimal play involves four or more players.

Codenames Spin-offs

Codenames: Duet

• MSRP: $24.95 USD
• Age: 11+
• Players: 2
• Playtime: 15 mins

A cooperative two-player version. Both players act as spymasters, using different sides of a shared key card to guide each other. The goal is to identify 15 spies without uncovering the three assassin cards. Includes 200 new cards compatible with the base game.

Codenames: Pictures

• MSRP: $24.95 USD
• Age: 10+
• Players: 2-8
• Playtime: 15 mins

Uses images instead of words, broadening descriptive possibilities and potentially lowering the age requirement. Compatible with word cards from the base game.

Codenames: Disney Family Edition

• MSRP: $24.99 USD
• Age: 8+
• Players: 2-8
• Playtime: Varies

A Disney-themed version with double-sided cards (words and images). Offers an easier 4x4 grid mode without an assassin card.

Codenames: Marvel Edition

• MSRP: $24.99 USD
• Age: 9+
• Players: 2-8
• Playtime: 15 mins

Features Marvel characters and imagery. Teams are S.H.I.E.L.D. and HYDRA. Plays like the base game or Codenames: Pictures.

Codenames: Harry Potter

• MSRP: $24.99 USD
• Age: 11+
• Players: 2
• Playtime: 15 mins

A cooperative two-player game using images and words, similar to Codenames: Duet.

XXL Versions

Larger-card versions of the base game, Duet, and Pictures are available for improved readability.

Online Play

A free online version is available, allowing for remote play with friends. A mobile app is planned for future release.

Discontinued Versions

Several versions, including Codenames: Deep Undercover and Codenames: The Simpsons Family Edition, are no longer in print but may be found secondhand.

Conclusion

Codenames is a highly-regarded party game, easily taught and played quickly. While best with larger groups, variations offer options for smaller player counts. Themed editions cater to specific interests, and XXL versions enhance accessibility.