Codenames has quickly risen to fame as one of the best party board games due to its straightforward rules and brisk gameplay. Unlike many games that falter with larger groups, Codenames shines with four or more players. The creators at Czech Games Edition didn't stop there; they also developed Codenames: Duet, a cooperative version tailored for two players, expanding the game's appeal.

Navigating the plethora of Codenames spin-offs and re-releases can be daunting, which is why we've put together this comprehensive guide. No matter where you start with Codenames, you're in for a treat. The core gameplay remains consistent across versions, with slight variations tailored to different age groups and thematic preferences, including 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 codename cards into a five-by-five grid. Each team appoints a spymaster who gives one-word clues based on a secret key card visible only to them. The goal is to guide your team to identify all nine of your spies before the opposing team does, all while avoiding the dreaded assassin card that leads to an instant defeat. The beauty of Codenames lies in the strategic depth of clue-giving; spymasters can opt for safe, precise clues or riskier, broader hints that could cover more ground but also increase the chance of missteps. This game thrives with even-numbered groups, ideally four or more, though a two-player version exists for those intimate gaming sessions.

Codenames Spin-offs

Codenames Duet

8See it at AmazonMSRP: $24.95 USD

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

Codenames: Duet shifts the original game's competitive nature to a cooperative experience for two. Players alternate as spymasters, using different sides of the key card to guide each other to 15 spies without hitting the three assassin cards. Duet not only stands alone but also enriches the original game with 200 new cards. For those looking for more two-player fun, check out our list of 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 swaps words for images, broadening the clue possibilities and potentially lowering the age barrier for younger players. The gameplay remains similar to the original but uses a five-by-four grid. It's a standalone game, but can be combined with the word version for a mixed experience. For more games suitable for children, see our picks for 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: 15 mins

Codenames: Disney Family Edition infuses the beloved Disney universe into the game, using double-sided cards featuring both words and images. It offers a family-friendly twist with a four-by-four grid option and no assassin card, making it more accessible for younger players and newcomers alike.

Codenames: Marvel Edition

0See it at WalmartMSRP: $24.99 USD

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

Codenames: Marvel Edition brings the iconic Marvel universe to the table, with teams represented by S.H.I.E.L.D. and HYDRA. The gameplay mirrors the base game or Pictures, depending on the card side used, offering a thematic twist for Marvel fans.

Codenames: Harry Potter

0See it at WalmartMSRP: $24.99 USD

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

Codenames: Harry Potter adopts the cooperative gameplay of Duet, immersing players in the magical world of Harry Potter. It uses double-sided cards for added variety and is perfect for two players. For more magical fun, explore 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, ideal for those with visual impairments or for enhancing the gaming experience.

Codenames: Duet XXL

0See it at AmazonMSRP: $39.95 USD

Codenames: Duet XXL mirrors its smaller counterpart but with larger cards, providing an accessible option for two-player cooperative play.

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 bigger visuals.

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 the works.

Discontinued Versions

Several Codenames iterations have been discontinued, including Codenames: Deep Undercover and Codenames: The Simpsons Family Edition. Deep Undercover is an adult-themed version with a 2.0 update for improved balance, while The Simpsons edition, though no longer in print, can still be found through secondhand sellers.

Bottom Line

Codenames stands out as one of the best party games available, thanks to its quick setup and playtime. While it excels with groups of four or more, Codenames: Duet and the Harry Potter variant offer engaging two-player experiences. With a variety of themed versions and larger card options, there's a Codenames game for every player. For more family fun, explore our recommendations for the best family board games. Keep an eye on our board game deals page for great deals on these titles at retailers like Amazon and Target.