Codenames: Board Game Buying Guide and Spin-Offs

Codenames: A Comprehensive Guide to the Word Association Game

Codenames has rapidly gained popularity as a top party board game due to its simple rules and quick playtime. 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. While each iteration shares a similar core gameplay loop, minor adjustments make some better suited for younger players, while others offer themed experiences.

The Core Experience: Codenames

Codenames (MSRP: $24.99 USD, Age: 10+, Players: 2-8, Playtime: 15 mins)

Two teams compete, each with a Spymaster who provides one-word clues to help their teammates identify their secret agents (codenames) on a 5x5 grid. The challenge lies in crafting clues that only guide your team, avoiding the assassin card which instantly ends the game. The number of codenames to guess adds a strategic layer, balancing risk and reward. Optimal player counts are even numbers of four or more.

Expanding the Gameplay: 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 key card to guide each other towards their 15 agents, while avoiding assassin cards. Includes 200 new cards compatible with the base game.

Codenames: Pictures (MSRP: $24.95 USD, Age: 10+, Players: 2-8, Playtime: 15 mins)

Replaces words with images, offering broader descriptive possibilities and potentially lowering the age barrier. Uses a 5x4 grid and is fully compatible with the original word cards.

Codenames: Disney Family Edition (MSRP: $24.99 USD, Age: 8+, Players: 2-8, Playtime: Varies)

A family-friendly version featuring Disney characters and imagery. Cards are double-sided (words and images), offering flexibility in gameplay. Includes an easier 4x4 mode without an assassin card.

Codenames: Marvel Edition (MSRP: $24.99 USD, Age: 9+, Players: 2-8, Playtime: 15 mins)

Features Marvel characters and imagery. Plays similarly to the base game or Codenames: Pictures, depending on card side selection. Teams are represented by S.H.I.E.L.D. and HYDRA.

Codenames: Harry Potter (MSRP: $24.99 USD, Age: 11+, Players: 2, Playtime: 15 mins)

A cooperative two-player game following the Duet gameplay, using both images and words.

Larger-Than-Life Versions: XXL Editions

Codenames: XXL, Codenames: Duet XXL, and Codenames: Pictures XXL (MSRP: $39.95 USD each)

Identical to their standard counterparts, but with larger cards for improved readability.

Digital Gameplay: Codenames Online

A free online version allows for remote play with friends.

Discontinued Versions

Note that some versions, such as Codenames: Deep Undercover (an adult-themed version) and Codenames: The Simpsons Family Edition, are no longer in print but may be available secondhand.

Final Verdict

Codenames is a fantastic party game, easy to learn and quick to play. While best with four or more players, Duet and the Harry Potter version offer excellent two-player experiences. The themed editions and XXL versions provide additional options to suit various preferences and needs.