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 popular party game. Unlike many games that struggle with larger groups, Codenames shines with four or more players. Beyond the original, several versions exist, including the cooperative two-player Codenames: Duet. This guide navigates the various Codenames iterations. While each plays similarly, subtle differences cater to different ages and preferences, with some featuring popular franchises like Marvel, Disney, and Harry Potter.

The Core Game: Codenames

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

Codenames involves two teams, each with a spymaster. 25 codenames are arranged in a 5x5 grid. Spymasters secretly see a key card revealing their team's codenames and the assassin card. They give one-word clues to help their team guess their codenames without selecting the assassin or the opponent's codenames. The first team to identify all their codenames wins. The game's strategic depth lies in balancing clue ambiguity and risk. While playable with 2-8, it's optimally enjoyed with even-numbered groups of four or more.

Codenames Spin-offs and Variations

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 the same key card to guide each other. The goal is to identify 15 codenames without hitting an assassin card. 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, offering broader descriptive possibilities and potentially lowering the age requirement. Plays similarly to the original, with the option to mix picture and word cards.

Codenames: Disney Family Edition

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

Features Disney characters and themes, using double-sided cards with words and images. Offers a simplified 4x4 grid mode without an assassin card for younger players.

Codenames: Marvel Edition

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

A Marvel-themed version with images and words from the Marvel universe. Teams are represented by 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 based on the Duet gameplay, using Harry Potter imagery and words.

Larger Card Versions: XXL

XXL versions (Codenames, Duet, and Pictures) offer larger cards for improved visibility.

Online Play

A free online version is available, allowing for remote play.

Discontinued Versions

Some versions, like Codenames: Deep Undercover (adult-themed) and Codenames: The Simpsons Family Edition, are no longer in print but may be found secondhand.

Conclusion

Codenames is a highly versatile and engaging party game, offering various options for different group sizes and preferences. Its simple rules and quick gameplay make it an excellent choice for a wide range of players.