Codenames has rapidly ascended to become one of the best party board games due to its straightforward rules and swift gameplay. Unlike many party games that falter with larger groups, Codenames excels with four or more players. However, the creators at Czech Games Edition didn't stop there; they also developed Codenames: Duet, a cooperative version tailored for two players, expanding the game's appeal across different group sizes.

Navigating the array of Codenames spin-offs and re-releases can be daunting, but this guide is here to help you make sense of the various versions. No matter which iteration you choose, you're in for a good time. The core gameplay remains consistent across the series, with tweaks tailored to different audiences, from young gamers to fans of popular 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 mins

In Codenames, players divide into two teams and lay out 25 cards in a five-by-five grid, each card bearing a codename. Each team appoints a spymaster who uses a secret key card to guide their team. The spymaster's challenge is to give one-word clues that lead their team to identify as many of their spies as possible. The game ends when one team uncovers all nine of their spies, but beware: selecting the wrong card could trigger an instant loss by revealing the assassin card. The beauty of Codenames lies in the spymaster's strategic decision-making—do you play it safe with a specific clue, or take a risk with a broader hint?

While officially supporting 2-8 players, Codenames shines with even-numbered groups of four or more. For those seeking a two-player experience, Czech Games Edition offers Codenames: Duet.

Codenames Spin-offs

Codenames Duet

### Codenames: Duet

8See it at AmazonMSRP: $24.95 USD

Age: 11+Players: 2Play Time: 15 mins

Codenames: Duet transforms the original competitive game into a cooperative experience for two players. Here, both players take turns as spymasters, aiming to uncover 15 spies without triggering one of the three assassin cards. This version not only offers a thrilling experience for duos but also includes 200 new cards compatible with the base game. It's a standalone box, making it an excellent entry point for newcomers. For more two-player options, 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 mins

Codenames: Pictures swaps words for images, expanding the possibilities for clues and lowering the age barrier for younger players. This version uses a five-by-four grid but retains the core gameplay of the original. Players can even mix word and picture cards for a more challenging experience. It's another standalone package, perfect for families looking for engaging games; see our picks for the best board games for kids for more recommendations.

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 into the game with cards featuring both words and images from beloved animated films. It offers versatile gameplay, playable like the original or Codenames: Pictures. Additionally, it includes a simpler four-by-four 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 mins

Codenames: Marvel Edition immerses players in the Marvel universe, with cards showcasing iconic characters and elements. Teams are aligned with S.H.I.E.L.D. or HYDRA, adding a thematic twist to the gameplay. This version can be played like the base game or Codenames: Pictures, depending on the card side used.

Codenames: Harry Potter

### Codenames: Harry Potter

0See it at WalmartMSRP: $24.99 USD

Age: 11+Players: 2Play Time: 15 mins

Codenames: Harry Potter adapts the cooperative gameplay of Duet into the magical world of Harry Potter. This two-player version uses dual-sided cards with both words and images, enhancing the game's variety. For more magical board game experiences, explore 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, improving visibility for players with visual impairments. It's an excellent option for accessibility without altering the core experience.

Codenames: Duet XXL

### Codenames: Duet XXL

0See it at AmazonMSRP: $39.95 USD

Similarly, Codenames: Duet XXL provides the cooperative gameplay of Duet with larger cards, ensuring easy readability for all players.

Codenames: Pictures XXL

### Codenames: Pictures XXL

0See it at Tabletop MerchantMSRP: $39.95 USD

Codenames: Pictures XXL rounds out the XXL series with the same engaging picture-based gameplay, now with larger cards for enhanced accessibility.

How to Play Codenames Online

### Play Codenames Online

0See it at Codenames

Czech Games Edition offers a free online version of Codenames, allowing players to join or create rooms and play with friends worldwide. While it can't replace the in-person experience, it's perfect for long-distance gaming, especially when paired with communication tools like Discord. An app version for iOS and Android is also in the works.

Discontinued Versions

Over the years, several versions of Codenames have been discontinued. Codenames: Deep Undercover, with its adult-themed content, and Codenames: The Simpsons Family Edition, featuring the beloved animated series, are no longer in print but can still be found through secondhand sellers.

Bottom Line

Codenames stands out as one of the best party games on the market, thanks to its ease of play and quick sessions, typically lasting about 15 minutes. It's ideal for groups of four or more, while Codenames: Duet and the Harry Potter variant cater perfectly to two players. With a variety of themed editions and accessibility options like the XXL versions, there's a Codenames game for every fan. For more family-friendly options, check out our recommendations for the best family board games. And don't forget to visit our board game deals page for the best prices on these titles at retailers like Amazon and Target.