Codenames: A Comprehensive Guide to the Word Association Game
Codenames' simple rules and quick playtime have made it a top party game choice. Unlike many games that struggle with larger player counts, Codenames excels with four or more players. Beyond the original, several versions cater to different group sizes and preferences, including a cooperative two-player variant, Codenames: Duet.
Navigating the various Codenames releases can be challenging. This guide explores the different versions, highlighting their unique features. While each version shares a similar core gameplay loop, minor adjustments cater to various age groups and preferences. Many feature popular franchise branding, including Marvel, Disney, and Harry Potter.
The Core Game: Codenames
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 view a key card revealing their team's words and the assassin. They provide one-word clues to guide their team to their words. The challenge lies in giving clues that only lead to their team's words, avoiding the assassin and opponent's words. The game ends when one team identifies all their words. While playable with 2-8 players, it shines with even-numbered groups of four or more.
Codenames Spin-offs
Codenames: Duet
- MSRP: $24.95 USD
- Age: 11+
- Players: 2
- Playtime: 15 mins
Codenames: Duet is a cooperative two-player version. Both players act as spymasters, using different sides of a shared key card to guide each other. The objective is to uncover 15 words without hitting the three assassin words. It includes 200 new cards compatible with the base game and is a standalone purchase.
Codenames: Pictures
- MSRP: $24.95 USD
- Age: 10+
- Players: 2-8
- Playtime: 15 mins
Codenames: Pictures replaces words with images, broadening descriptive possibilities and potentially lowering the age requirement. It uses a 5x4 grid and is otherwise identical to the original game. Cards can be mixed with the original Codenames.
Codenames: Disney Family Edition
- MSRP: $24.99 USD
- Age: 8+
- Players: 2-8
- Playtime: Varies
This Disney-themed version features words and images from Disney films. Double-sided cards allow for word-only, image-only, or mixed gameplay. It includes an easier 4x4 mode without an assassin card for younger players.
Codenames: Marvel Edition
- MSRP: $24.99 USD
- Age: 9+
- Players: 2-8
- Playtime: 15 mins
This Marvel-themed edition uses images and words from the Marvel universe. Teams are represented by S.H.I.E.L.D. and HYDRA. Gameplay is identical to the base game or Codenames: Pictures.
Codenames: Harry Potter
- MSRP: $24.99 USD
- Age: 11+
- Players: 2
- Playtime: 15 mins
This cooperative two-player version uses the Duet gameplay with Harry Potter-themed images and words.
Larger Card Versions: XXL
XXL versions exist for the base game, Duet, and Pictures, offering larger cards for improved visibility.
Online Play
Czech Games Edition offers a free online version of Codenames, allowing for online play with friends. A mobile app is also planned.
Discontinued Versions
Several Codenames versions are no longer in print, including Codenames: Deep Undercover (an adult version) and Codenames: The Simpsons Family Edition.
Conclusion
Codenames is a highly enjoyable party game, easily taught and played quickly. While best for larger groups, Duet and the Harry Potter version provide excellent two-player options. Themed versions and XXL variants cater to diverse preferences. Many versions are readily available at discounted prices.
