"Codenames: Ultimate Buying Guide and Spin-Offs"

Codenames has rapidly gained acclaim as one of the best party board games due to its straightforward rules and swift gameplay. While many games in this category struggle to accommodate larger groups, Codenames excels with four or more players. However, the creators at Czech Games Edition didn't stop there; they expanded the franchise with Codenames: Duet, a cooperative version designed for two players.

Navigating the various spin-offs and re-releases in the Codenames series can be overwhelming, which is why we've compiled this comprehensive guide. Whether you're a new player or a seasoned fan, you'll find that each version of Codenames offers a unique twist on the original gameplay, tailored to different age groups and interests, 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

Each game of Codenames starts with players dividing into two teams and arranging 25 cards with codenames into a five-by-five grid. Each team selects a spymaster who will provide one-word clues based on a secret key card visible only to them, indicating the positions of their team's spies. The goal is to guide your team to uncover all nine of your spies before the opposing team does. However, the challenge lies in giving clues that precisely lead to your spies, as choosing the wrong card could benefit the other team or trigger an instant loss by revealing the assassin card. Spymasters must strategically decide how many cards to hint at, balancing risk and reward. Although the game supports 2-8 players, it shines with groups of four or more. For those looking for a two-player experience, Codenames: Duet offers a great alternative.

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 competitive game into a cooperative experience for two players. Players alternate as spymasters, using different sides of the key card to guide their partner in uncovering 15 spies while avoiding three assassin cards. This version not only caters to couples but also includes 200 new cards compatible with the base game. It's a standalone box, making it an excellent choice for those seeking great best two-player board games and the best board games for couples.

Codenames: Pictures

0See it at WalmartMSRP: $24.95 USD

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

Codenames: Pictures introduces images instead of words, broadening the scope for clues and potentially lowering the age requirement. This version maintains the core gameplay of the original, using a five-by-four grid, and offers the flexibility to mix picture and word cards for a more advanced play. It's an ideal choice for those interested in best board games for kids and is another standalone game.

Codenames: Disney Family Edition

0See it at Barnes & NobleMSRP: $24.99 USD

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

Codenames: Disney Family Edition is tailored for younger players, featuring a Disney theme with double-sided cards displaying words and images. It offers an easier four-by-four grid mode without an assassin card, making it more accessible for families and new players. This version can be played like the original, Pictures, or a combination of both.

Codenames: Marvel Edition

0See it at WalmartMSRP: $24.99 USD

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

Codenames: Marvel Edition brings the excitement of the comic book universe to the game, with teams represented by S.H.I.E.L.D. and HYDRA. It retains the gameplay of the base game or Pictures, depending on the side of the cards used, offering fans a themed experience with familiar characters and settings.

Codenames: Harry Potter

0See it at WalmartMSRP: $24.99 USD

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

Codenames: Harry Potter adapts the cooperative gameplay of Duet into the magical world of Hogwarts. This version is perfect for two players and includes cards with both images and words, adding variety to the gameplay. For more magical experiences, 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 larger cards, enhancing readability for players with vision impairments. It's an excellent accessibility option for those who need it.

Codenames: Duet XXL

0See it at AmazonMSRP: $39.95 USD

Similarly, Codenames: Duet XXL features the cooperative gameplay of Duet with larger cards, ensuring a comfortable experience for two players.

Codenames: Pictures XXL

0See it at Tabletop MerchantMSRP: $39.95 USD

Codenames: Pictures XXL is the image-based version with larger cards, perfect for those who prefer a visually-oriented game with enhanced visibility.

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 it may lack the in-person interaction, it's a fantastic option for remote play, especially when paired with communication tools like Discord. An app version for iOS and Android is also in the works.

Discontinued Versions

Over the years, several versions of Codenames have been discontinued, including Codenames: Deep Undercover and Codenames: The Simpsons Family Edition. The former is an adult-themed version with a more mature twist, while the latter is themed around The Simpsons. Both can still be found through secondhand sellers.

Bottom Line

Codenames stands out as a top choice among best party games, thanks to its ease of learning and quick playtime. While it's best enjoyed with four or more players, Codenames: Duet and the Harry Potter variant cater well to two players. With various themed editions and larger card options, there's a version of Codenames to suit every taste and need.

For more family-friendly 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 a discount from retailers like Amazon and Target.