Board Game Fanatics: Guide to Codename Spin-Offs & Expansions

Codenames: A Comprehensive Guide to the Word-Association Party Game

Codenames' simple rules and quick playtime have made it a popular party game. Unlike many games that struggle with larger groups, Codenames thrives with four or more players. However, its appeal extends beyond large gatherings, with the release of cooperative versions like Codenames: Duet. This guide navigates the various Codenames iterations. While each version shares a similar core, they offer variations in player count, theme, and age appropriateness.

The Core Experience: Codenames

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

Two teams compete, each with a spymaster providing one-word clues to guide their teammates to identify their agents (codenames) on a 5x5 grid. The challenge lies in crafting clues that avoid the opposing team's agents and the assassin. The number of agents to guess adds a strategic layer, balancing risk and reward. While playable with 2-8 players, it shines with even-numbered groups of four or more.

Expanding the Gameplay: Spin-offs and Variants

Codenames: Duet (MSRP: $24.95 USD, Age: 11+, Players: 2, Play Time: 15 mins)

A cooperative two-player version where both players act as spymasters, using different sides of a shared key card. The objective is to uncover 15 agents without encountering assassins. Includes 200 new cards compatible with the base game.

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

Replaces words with images, broadening descriptive possibilities and potentially lowering the age requirement. Plays similarly to the original, using a 5x4 grid. Cards can be mixed with the word version for varied gameplay.

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

A family-friendly version featuring Disney characters and imagery. Uses double-sided cards (words and pictures) for flexible gameplay. Offers an easier 4x4 mode without an assassin card for younger players.

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

Features Marvel characters and imagery. Plays like 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, Play Time: 15 mins)

A cooperative two-player game based on the Duet gameplay, using Harry Potter themed cards (words and pictures).

Larger-Than-Life Gameplay: XXL Versions

Codenames: XXL, Codenames: Duet XXL, and Codenames: Pictures XXL (MSRP: $39.95 USD each) These versions feature larger cards for improved visibility.

Digital Delights: Online Play

Czech Games Edition offers a free online version, enabling remote play with friends. A mobile app is also planned for iOS and Android.

Discontinued Versions

Note that some versions, like 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 highly adaptable party game, offering various versions to suit different group sizes, ages, and preferences. Its simple rules and engaging gameplay make it a worthwhile addition to any board game collection. Remember to check for deals at major retailers!