Codenames: Board Game Buying Guide and Spin-Offs

Codenames: A Comprehensive Guide to the Word-Association Game

Codenames' simple rules and quick gameplay make it a top party game choice. Unlike many games limited to a few players, Codenames shines with four or more. Beyond the original, several versions cater to different player counts and preferences. While each iteration shares a similar core, minor adjustments target various age groups and incorporate popular franchises. No matter where you start, you'll find engaging gameplay.

The Core Game: Codenames

• MSRP: $24.99 USD
• Age: 10+
• Players: 2-8
• Playtime: 15 mins

Two teams compete, each selecting a spymaster. 25 codename cards form a grid. Spymasters view a key card revealing their team's spies and the assassin. They give one-word clues to guide their team to guess their spies. Incorrect guesses may aid the opposing team or trigger an immediate loss. The strategic element lies in balancing clue breadth and the number of guesses. Optimal player count is four or more.

Codenames Spin-offs

Codenames: Duet

• MSRP: $24.95 USD
• Age: 11+
• Players: 2
• Playtime: 15 mins

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 spies without encountering an assassin card. Includes 200 new cards compatible with the base game.

Codenames: Pictures

• MSRP: $24.95 USD
• Age: 10+
• Players: 2-8
• Playtime: 15 mins

Uses images instead of words, broadening descriptive possibilities and potentially lowering the age requirement. Compatible with the original game's word cards.

Codenames: Disney Family Edition

• MSRP: $24.99 USD
• Age: 8+
• Players: 2-8
• Playtime: Varies

Features Disney words and images, playable with words, pictures, or a combination. Offers an easier four-by-four grid mode without an assassin card for younger players.

Codenames: Marvel Edition

• MSRP: $24.99 USD
• Age: 9+
• Players: 2-8
• Playtime: 15 mins

Marvel-themed version with words and images. Teams are S.H.I.E.L.D. and HYDRA. Plays like the base game or Codenames: Pictures.

Codenames: Harry Potter

• MSRP: $24.99 USD
• Age: 11+
• Players: 2
• Playtime: 15 mins

A cooperative two-player game based on Duet's gameplay, using Harry Potter words and images.

XXL Versions

Larger-card versions of the base game, Duet, and Pictures are available for improved readability.

Online Play

A free online version is available through Czech Games Edition, allowing for remote play.

Discontinued Versions

Several versions, including Codenames: Deep Undercover (adult-themed) and Codenames: The Simpsons Family Edition, are no longer in print but may be found secondhand.

Conclusion

Codenames is a highly-regarded party game, ideal for groups of four or more, with various spin-offs catering to different preferences and player counts. Themed versions offer added appeal for fans of specific franchises. The XXL versions provide accessibility for players with visual impairments. The online version extends the gameplay beyond geographical limitations.