Codenames is a word game for teams that is simple to teach, quick to play and great for big groups. Designed by Vlaada Chvátil and published by Czech Games Edition in 2015, it won the Spiel des Jahres (Game of the Year) award in 2016. If you need one game that works for a crowded living room during the holidays, Codenames is a strong choice.
What is Codenames?
Two teams, red and blue, each choose one player as their spymaster. Twenty-five word cards are laid out in a 5-by-5 grid. The spymasters share a secret key card that shows which words belong to the red team, which belong to the blue team, which are innocent bystanders and which one is the assassin. The spymasters give one-word clues to help their teammates find their words, and the first team to find all of its words wins.
How to play
Setup
Split into two teams and choose spymasters, who sit on the same side of the table. Deal 25 word cards into a grid. The spymasters draw a key card and place it in the stand so only they can see it. The team that goes first has nine words to find; the other team has eight.
Giving clues
On their turn, a spymaster says one word and one number, such as “Ocean: 2.” The word links to words on the grid, and the number says how many of them it refers to.
Guessing
The team discusses the clue and touches one card at a time. If it’s their color, the spymaster covers it with one of their agent cards and the team may guess again. If it’s a bystander or the other team’s word, the turn ends. A team may make one more guess than the number in the clue, which helps them catch up on earlier clues.
The assassin
One word on the grid is the assassin. A team that touches it loses immediately, which keeps spymasters careful.
Clue rules worth knowing
- The clue must be about meaning, not about spelling or where a card sits on the grid.
- You can’t use a word that’s on the table, or part of one, until it’s been covered.
- Spymasters keep a straight face. No hints through tone of voice or pointing.
- If a group isn’t sure whether a clue is allowed, the other spymaster usually makes the call.
Tips for spymasters
- Start safe. A clear clue for two words beats a clever clue for four that leads the team into the assassin.
- Check the whole grid. Before giving a clue, look for words it could accidentally point to, especially the assassin.
- Know your team. A clue that works for friends who share inside jokes may not work for the grandparents.
- Save the leftovers. If your team missed a word from an earlier clue, the extra guess lets them pick it up later.
Versions for every group
Codenames: Pictures swaps words for illustrated cards and is a good choice when players have a mix of ages or reading levels. Codenames Duet is a cooperative version designed for two players. There are also themed family editions, such as Disney and Harry Potter versions, which make popular gifts. Check the age rating on the box, since editions differ.
Codenames at holiday gatherings
Codenames is easy to set up on a coffee table and teaches in a few minutes, which makes it handy when relatives arrive at different times. New players can join a team between rounds, and quieter guests can contribute without being put on the spot. Let a confident player be the first spymaster, then rotate so everyone gets a turn giving clues. Mixing generations on each team works well too, since older and younger players often think of very different connections.
When to play it
Codenames works best with four or more players and can stretch to large groups, since the teams just get bigger. It’s a natural warm-up before a longer game such as Ticket to Ride or Catan, and it fits easily between holiday plans. If your group loves this kind of game, see our list of board games that keep your friends guessing words, and our tips for hosting a holiday game night.
FAQ
How many people can play Codenames?
The box lists 2 to 8 or more players, but it’s at its best with four or more. Larger groups just make bigger teams.
How long does a round take?
Usually about 15 minutes, so it’s easy to play several rounds in one evening.
Is there a version for two players?
Yes. Codenames Duet is a cooperative two-player version.
Is Codenames good for kids?
It depends on reading level and vocabulary. Codenames: Pictures and the family editions are easier for younger players.
Top image: “Codenames board game” by JIP, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons.
2 comments
Comments are closed.