Codenames has rapidly emerged as a top choice among the best party board games due to its simple rules and fast-paced gameplay. Unlike many party games that struggle with larger groups, Codenames shines with four or more players. Yet, the creators didn't stop there; they also developed Codenames: Duet, a cooperative version designed specifically for two players.
With the proliferation of spin-offs and re-releases in the Codenames series, it can be overwhelming to choose the right version. Our guide aims to simplify this process, highlighting that there's no wrong starting point with Codenames. Each version maintains the core gameplay with slight modifications, making some more suitable for younger players, others for older audiences, and some featuring popular themes like Marvel, Disney, and Harry Potter.
The Base Game
Codenames
30 See it at Amazon
MSRP: $24.99 USD
Age: 10+
Players: 2-8
Play Time: 15 mins
In Codenames, gameplay starts with players dividing into two teams and arranging 25 cards with codenames in a five-by-five grid. Each team selects a spymaster who provides one-word clues based on a secret key card visible only to them, indicating the positions of their team's spies. The objective is to guide teammates to identify all nine spies before the opposing team does. The challenge lies in crafting clues that accurately pinpoint your team's spies without inadvertently aiding the opponents or triggering the game-ending assassin card. Spymasters must strategically decide how many guesses to prompt from their team, balancing risk and reward. Although the game supports 2-8 players, it's most enjoyable with groups of four or more. For two players, Czech Games Edition offers Codenames: Duet.
Codenames Spin-offs
Codenames Duet
8 See it at Amazon
MSRP: $24.95 USD
Age: 11+
Players: 2
Play Time: 15 mins
Codenames: Duet transforms the competitive nature of the original into a cooperative experience for two players. Players alternate roles as spymasters, using different sides of the key to guide each other to 15 spies while avoiding three assassin cards. This version not only caters to duos but also includes 200 new cards compatible with the base game. As a standalone product, no prior purchase is necessary. For more two-player fun, explore our best two-player board games and the best board games for couples.
Codenames: Pictures
0 See it at Walmart
MSRP: $24.95 USD
Age: 10+
Players: 2-8
Play Time: 15 mins
Codenames: Pictures swaps word cards for images, expanding the possibilities for clues and lowering the age requirement, making it more accessible for younger players. Check out our best board games for kids for more family-friendly options. The gameplay remains similar to the original but uses a five-by-four grid. Players can even mix picture and word cards for a more challenging game. Like other versions, Codenames: Pictures is a standalone game.
Codenames: Disney Family Edition
0 See it at Barnes & Noble
MSRP: $24.99 USD
Age: 8+
Players: 2-8
Play Time: 15 mins
Codenames: Disney Family Edition integrates beloved Disney characters into the game, using double-sided cards featuring words and images. Players can choose to play in the original format, with pictures, or mix both. This version offers a simplified four-by-four grid mode without an assassin card, making it ideal for younger and new players.
Codenames: Marvel Edition
0 See it at Walmart
MSRP: $24.99 USD
Age: 9+
Players: 2-8
Play Time: 15 mins
Codenames: Marvel Edition brings the Marvel universe into play, with teams represented by S.H.I.E.L.D. and HYDRA. Players can use either the word or image side of the cards, aligning the gameplay with the base game or Codenames: Pictures.
Codenames: Harry Potter
0 See it at Walmart
MSRP: $24.99 USD
Age: 11+
Players: 2
Play Time: 15 mins
Codenames: Harry Potter adopts the cooperative gameplay of Duet, tailored for two players within the magical world of Harry Potter. The dual-sided cards offer flexibility, mixing words and images. For more magical gameplay, check out our best Harry Potter board games.
Other Versions
Codenames: XXL
0 See it at Amazon
MSRP: $39.95 USD
Codenames: XXL is identical to the base game but features larger cards, enhancing visibility for players with visual impairments. It's a great accessibility option, though the original cards are typically large enough for most.
Codenames: Duet XXL
0 See it at Amazon
MSRP: $39.95 USD
Similar to Codenames: XXL, Codenames: Duet XXL offers larger cards for the cooperative two-player version, ensuring ease of play for those who need it.
Codenames: Pictures XXL
0 See it at Tabletop Merchant
MSRP: $39.95 USD
Codenames: Pictures XXL is the image-based version with larger cards, maintaining the same gameplay but enhancing visibility.
How to Play Codenames Online
0 See it at Codenames
Czech Games Edition provides a free online version of Codenames, allowing players to join rooms or invite friends. While it may lack the in-person interaction, it's perfect for remote play, especially when paired with communication tools like Discord. An app version for iOS and Android is also in development.
Discontinued Versions
Over time, several Codenames versions have been discontinued, including Codenames: Deep Undercover and Codenames: The Simpsons Family Edition. The former adds an adult twist with suggestive content, while the latter brings The Simpsons into the mix. Although out of print, these games can still be found through secondary markets.
Bottom Line
Codenames stands out as one of the best party board games due to its ease of learning and quick playtime. Ideal for groups of four or more, the game also offers Duet and Harry Potter versions for two players. With various themed editions and XXL options for better visibility, Codenames caters to a wide range of players. For more family entertainment, browse our best family board games. Keep an eye on our board game deals page for great discounts on these titles at retailers like Amazon and Target.
