"Codenames: Buying Guide and Spin-Offs Unveiled"

Codenames has rapidly risen to prominence as one of the best party board games due to its straightforward rules and brisk playtime. While many party games falter with larger groups, Codenames flourishes with four or more players. Yet, the creators at Czech Games Edition didn't stop there; they expanded the game's appeal with Codenames: Duet, a cooperative version tailored for two players.

Navigating the plethora of spin-offs and re-releases in the Codenames series can be daunting. That's why we've created this comprehensive guide to help you explore the various versions. With Codenames, there's no wrong starting point. Each iteration retains the core gameplay with slight variations, some suited for younger players, others for older audiences, and many featuring themes from beloved franchises like Marvel, Disney, and Harry Potter.

The Base Game

Codenames

### Codenames

30See it at AmazonMSRP: $24.99 USD

Age: 10+Players: 2-8Play Time: 15 minsCodenames kicks off with players dividing into two teams and arranging 25 cards in a 5x5 grid. Each team appoints a spymaster who provides one-word clues based on a secret key card visible only to them, indicating the positions of their spies. The objective is to guide your team to identify all nine of your spies first. However, selecting the wrong card could benefit the opposing team or trigger an immediate loss by uncovering the assassin card. The brilliance of Codenames lies in the spymaster's strategic decision-making: opting for safe clues or risking broader hints that could uncover multiple spies at once. Though the game supports 2-8 players, it shines with groups of four or more. For those looking for a two-player experience, Codenames: Duet is the perfect solution.

Codenames Spin-offs

Codenames Duet

### Codenames: Duet

8See it at AmazonMSRP: $24.95 USD

Age: 11+Players: 2Play Time: 15 minsCodenames: Duet transforms the competitive gameplay into a cooperative challenge for two players. Each player alternates as the spymaster, guiding their partner using clues from different sides of the key card to find 15 spies while avoiding three assassin cards. This version not only offers a unique two-player experience but also includes 200 new cards compatible with the original game. It stands alone, requiring no additional purchases. For more two-player fun, check out our list of the best two-player board games and the best board games for couples.

Codenames: Pictures

### Codenames: Pictures

0See it at WalmartMSRP: $24.95 USD

Age: 10+Players: 2-8Play Time: 15 minsCodenames: Pictures swaps words for images, broadening the scope for clues and potentially lowering the age requirement. It maintains the core gameplay on a 5x4 grid, and players can mix picture and word cards for a more challenging game. This version is also a standalone product. For more family-friendly options, explore our picks for the best board games for kids.

Codenames: Disney Family Edition

### Codenames: Disney Family Edition

0See it at Barnes & NobleMSRP: $24.99 USD

Age: 8+Players: 2-8Play Time: Codenames: Disney – Family Edition brings the magic of Disney to the game with themed words and images. It offers flexibility with double-sided cards and a simplified 4x4 grid mode without an assassin card, making it more accessible for younger players and newcomers.

Codenames: Marvel Edition

### Codenames: Marvel Edition

0See it at WalmartMSRP: $24.99 USD

Age: 9+Players: 2-8Play Time: 15 minsCodenames: Marvel Edition immerses players in the Marvel universe, 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 card side used, offering a thrilling experience for Marvel fans.

Codenames: Harry Potter

### Codenames: Harry Potter

0See it at WalmartMSRP: $24.99 USD

Age: 11+Players: 2Play Time: 15 minsCodenames: Harry Potter adopts the cooperative gameplay of Duet, set in the magical world of Harry Potter. With cards featuring both images and words, it provides a varied and engaging experience for two players. For more magical fun, see our list of the best Harry Potter board games.

Other Versions

Codenames: XXL

### Codenames: XXL

0See it at AmazonMSRP: $39.95 USD

Codenames: XXL offers the same gameplay as the base game but with larger cards, enhancing visibility for players with visual impairments.

Codenames: Duet XXL

### Codenames: Duet XXL

0See it at AmazonMSRP: $39.95 USD

Codenames: Duet XXL mirrors the cooperative gameplay of Duet with larger cards, ensuring a comfortable play experience.

Codenames: Pictures XXL

### Codenames: Pictures XXL

0See it at Tabletop MerchantMSRP: $39.95 USD

Codenames: Pictures XXL brings the image-based gameplay to a larger format, making it easier for all players to enjoy.

How to Play Codenames Online

### Play Codenames Online

0See it at CodenamesCzech 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 ideal 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. The former is an adult-themed version with risqué content, while the latter features The Simpsons. Both can still be found through secondhand sellers.

Bottom Line

Codenames stands out as one of the best party games on the market, with its easy-to-learn rules and quick 15-minute playtime. It's ideal for groups of four or more, but Codenames: Duet and the Harry Potter variant cater perfectly to two players. Themed versions appeal to fans of various franchises, and XXL editions offer enhanced readability. For more family fun, 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.