Codenames has swiftly risen to prominence as one of the best party board games due to its simple-to-learn rules and fast gameplay. While many party games struggle with accommodating larger groups, Codenames excels with four or more players. The creators didn't stop at crafting a stellar party game; they also developed Codenames: Duet, a cooperative version designed for two players.

Navigating the myriad of spin-offs and re-releases in the Codenames series can be daunting. This guide is here to help you explore the various versions of the game. It's worth noting that there's no wrong starting point with Codenames. The different iterations share similar gameplay with slight modifications, catering to different age groups and featuring themes from popular franchises like Marvel, Disney, and Harry Potter.

The Base Game

Codenames

See it at Amazon
MSRP: $24.99 USD
Age: 10+
Players: 2-8
Play Time: 15 mins

In Codenames, players divide into two teams and arrange 25 cards in 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 objective is to lead your team to identify all nine of your spies before the opposing team does. The challenge lies in crafting clues that pinpoint your spies without inadvertently aiding the other team or triggering the game-ending assassin card. Spymasters can choose the number of guesses their team attempts, balancing between safety and risk. Although the game supports 2-8 players, it shines with groups of four or more. For those interested in a two-player experience, Czech Games Edition offers Codenames: Duet.

Codenames Spin-offs

Codenames Duet

See it at Amazon
MSRP: $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. Both players take turns as spymasters, using different sides of the same key to guide their partner in uncovering 15 spies while avoiding three assassin cards. This version not only provides a great two-player option but also includes 200 new cards compatible with the base game. It's a standalone game, perfect for those looking to dive into the world of Codenames without the original. For more two-player game recommendations, check out our lists of the best two-player board games and the best board games for couples.

Codenames: Pictures

See it at Walmart
MSRP: $24.95 USD
Age: 10+
Players: 2-8
Play Time: 15 mins

Codenames: Pictures introduces a twist by using images instead of words, broadening the scope for clues and potentially lowering the age requirement. The game retains the core mechanics of the original but uses a five-by-four grid. Players can mix picture and word cards for a more advanced game. This version stands alone and doesn't require the original game. For younger players, explore our picks for the best board games for kids.

Codenames: Disney Family Edition

See it at Barnes & Noble
MSRP: $24.99 USD
Age: 8+
Players: 2-8
Play Time: 15 mins

Codenames: Disney Family Edition brings the magic of Disney to the game with cards featuring words and images from animated films. Players can choose to play with words, pictures, or a mix of both. This version offers a more family-friendly experience with a four-by-four grid option and no assassin card, making it accessible for younger players and newcomers.

Codenames: Marvel Edition

See it at Walmart
MSRP: $24.99 USD
Age: 9+
Players: 2-8
Play Time: 15 mins

Codenames: Marvel Edition immerses players in the Marvel universe, with teams represented by S.H.I.E.L.D. and HYDRA. The gameplay remains consistent with the base game or Codenames: Pictures, depending on the card side used. This themed version adds an exciting layer for Marvel fans.

Codenames: Harry Potter

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. The cards feature both images and words, enhancing the game's variability. For more magical gaming experiences, see our list of the best Harry Potter board games.

Other Versions

Codenames: XXL

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MSRP: $39.95 USD

Codenames: XXL offers the same gameplay as the base game but with larger cards, ideal for those with visual impairments. The original cards are generally sufficient, but XXL provides an accessibility option.

Codenames: Duet XXL

See it at Amazon
MSRP: $39.95 USD

Codenames: Duet XXL mirrors the cooperative gameplay of Duet with larger cards, enhancing visibility for players.

Codenames: Pictures XXL

See it at Tabletop Merchant
MSRP: $39.95 USD

Codenames: Pictures XXL is the image-based version with larger cards, ensuring ease of use for all players.

How to Play Codenames Online

See it at Codenames

Czech Games Edition offers a free online version of Codenames, allowing players to join rooms or invite friends. While it lacks 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 the works.

Discontinued Versions

Several Codenames iterations are no longer in print, including Codenames: Deep Undercover and Codenames: The Simpsons Family Edition. Deep Undercover is an adult-themed version with a 2.0 release for better balance, available at retailers like Amazon. The Simpsons edition, though out of print, can still be found through secondhand sellers.

Bottom Line

Codenames stands out as one of the best party games on the market, known for its ease of learning and quick playtime. It's ideal for groups of four or more, but Codenames: Duet and the Harry Potter variant offer excellent two-player options. Themed versions cater to fans of various franchises, and XXL editions provide larger cards for better visibility. For more family-friendly options, check out our recommendations for the best family board games. Many of these titles are available at a discount at retailers like Amazon and Target, so keep an eye on our board game deals page for the best offers on your next purchase.