Description
Codenames is a social word game with a simple premise and challenging game play. Two rival spymasters know the secret identities of 25 agents. Their teammates know the agents only by their codenames. The teams compete to see who can make contact with all of their agents first. Spymasters give one-word clues that can point to multiple words on the table. Their teammates try to guess words of their color while avoiding those that belong to the opposing team. And everyone wants to avoid the assassin. The game works very well with 4 players if you prefer to guess without help. Or you can add more players if you prefer lively discussion. There is also a cooperative variant where a single team tries to achieve the highest score they can by playing against the game itself.
From the brand
From the manufacturer
What is included?
• 16 agent cards in two colors
• 1 double agent card
• 7 innocent bystander cards
• 1 assassin card
• 40 key cards
• 1 rulebook
• 1 card stand
• 1 timer
• 200 cards with 400 codenames
The Top Secret Word Game
Win or lose, it’s fun to figure out the clues!
Codenames is a fun and challenging social word game with a simple premise. Two rival spymasters know the secret identities of 25 agents. Their teammates know the agents only by their CODENAMES. Teams compete to contact all of their agents first.
Spymasters give one-word clues that can point to multiple words on the board. Their teammates try to guess words of the right color while avoiding those that belong to the opposing team. Everyone wants to avoid the assassin.
- Mechanics/genre: Word association, deduction, team play, hidden information
- Designer: Vlaada Chvátil
Shaik Merkatur Hakim Marjuban –
I recently had the pleasure of playing the CGE Czech Games Edition Codenames Board Game, and I must say it’s become an instant favorite in my board game collection. This game is an absolute blast for game nights and gatherings. The game’s concept is simple yet brilliant, making it accessible to players of all ages. Its simplicity makes it suitable for players of all ages, and its endless replayability ensures every game feels fresh. Playing in teams adds strategy and excitement, promoting communication and teamwork. It’s easy to learn, making it a fantastic choice for introducing newcomers to board games. The compact design makes it portable for gaming on the go, and the high-quality components ensure durability. With expansions available, Codenames offers hours of entertainment and deserves a spot in every game collection. Highly recommended for both seasoned gamers and those looking for a fun social activity with friends and family.
Amazon Customer –
This game is so simple in its objective- Get your partner to say the word on the board by giving hints – But it can be played at such a higher level based on strategy and defensive moves.Our family has played it almost every night since Christmas (now Valentine’s Day)Play with your kids. Play with your Boy Scout troop. Play it with your grandparents. Play with your drunk friends and neighbors! It’s a blast. It’ll become a GoTo on game night!
Alexis –
I had never heard about this game until recently when we played it at a friends house. It’s such a fun game to play with teams so it makes for the perfect couples night activity. We usually play in groups of two, but you can definitely play in groups of three. It’s so fun and really gets your brain thinking. It’s super frustrating to only be able to say one word at a time, but it’s super fun trying to challenge your teammates.
Lauren –
We love this game! It is so fun and easy to understand! I like how everything comes in its own little bag and it is small enough to throw in a bag to take places! I would totally recommend this game if you are into guessing games and strategy
Javier J Calderon –
This is one of the games I always bring when a group wants to do game night. It’s really easy to teach and plays differently everytime.The clue giver is the harder role but a lot of fun.Overall this is a must have in your board game collection. It is so much more replayable than cards against humanity and a lot more interactive.
Lydia Johnson –
I love this game, however when I try to teach new people they struggle understanding the game. It’s really not complicated but is at the same time. it’s very fun.
Cameron Wylie –
I honestly think someone should do a psychological study on this game. Not only does it require you to use word association, but also filter your intended associations through the perspective/ experiential/ cultural lens of your teammate. Fascinating to think about.Beyond that, it is just a lot of fun and easy to get started. Box came with all necessary cards and components. Might be fun to hey am expansion pack at some point, but you could probably play this forever without actually needing one. Brought this to my gf’s family’s house over the holidays and we all had a great time playing.
K Clark –
Bought this as a gift for my friend and my son in law. They both love it. You need at least 4 to play (even numbers work better but you can adapt the game) and you will want to keep going after the first round. Highly recommend
Jay –
What a great game to play as in a group setting. It’s nice to see which family or friends think similar to you. It was a blast, so much fun the kids wanted to start playing.
Guest –
We played this with our adult children and everyone really enjoyed it. It’s a lot of cards, so you definitely need a large, flat playing surface. It was interesting to see how people thought and managed to combine multiple cards. Definitely led to some moments of hilarity.