12 Best Codenames Games to Play in 2025
Codenames: Pictures is a top contender for the best Codenames game, blending creativity with classic wordplay. Laughs guaranteed!
Get ready to crack some codes with our pick of the 12 best Codenames games! We’ve sifted through the wordy chaos to bring you games that offer clever twists and thrilling challenges. We love games that spark laughter, sharpen wits, and can handle a crowd of friends or a cozy night for two. Our picks range from classic wordplay to themed versions that will delight fans of all stripes. We’ve got everything from pictures to magical realms. If you’re hunting for the best codenames game for your next game night, this list is your secret weapon! Let’s unravel the fun!
On this list:
12 Codenames
Codenames is the classic game that started it all. The game is simple in concept but challenging in execution. Players take turns giving one-word clues to help their team guess the right words on the board while avoiding the opposing team’s words and the dreaded assassin. It’s a hit at parties and family gatherings because it’s easy to learn but tough to master. Team play adds an engaging dynamic, whether you’re playing with two players or ten. There’s a reason it’s a staple in our game nights—it’s just that good!
11 Codenames: Pictures
Love Codenames but tired of words? Codenames: Pictures mixes it up with images instead of words. This version challenges your visual perception and creativity, and can be a bit more approachable for younger players or those who are more visually inclined. My friend once turned an owl into a clue for the Eiffel Tower, and we’re still trying to figure that one out. It’s great for when you want a fresh twist on a proven formula.
10 Codenames: Duet
For those of us who prefer quality time with a single partner, Codenames: Duet is perfect. It’s a cooperative version where you and your partner team up to find all the words before time runs out. You can feel the tension rise with every turn as you work against the clock. It’s a wonderful way to strengthen your communication skills and maybe even test your relationship a bit. My spouse and I found it hilarious when we realized our clue associations were completely off!
9 Codenames XXL
Go big or go home, right? Codenames XXL is like the classic Codenames but super-sized! Those larger cards are easier to see, making it perfect for bigger groups and larger tables. We once played this at a family gathering with folks huddling around a giant table—no one complained about not being able to see the words. It’s the same great game, just with a little extra flair and accessibility.
8 Codenames: Harry Potter
Accio fun! For Potterheads, Codenames: Harry Potter is just the ticket. Dive into the magical world of wizardry as you try to guess the right words related to the Harry Potter universe. Who knew my aunt would make the best Dumbledore impersonation while giving clues? The themed cards and familiar references make it an exciting twist on the original game for fans of all ages.
7 Codenames: Disney
Codenames: Disney is a magical treat for the whole family, especially for Disney fans. You get to play with cards featuring your favorite Disney characters and movies. It’s like taking a stroll down memory lane with Mickey Mouse, Simba, and Elsa as you make your guesses. Kids love it, and let’s be real, adults secretly enjoy it too. Plus, you get to see who knows their Disney trivia the best!
6 Codenames: Marvel
Calling all superhero fans! Codenames: Marvel combines the thrilling universe of Marvel with the engaging mechanics of Codenames. Players give clues relating to iconic Marvel characters and locations. This version is a blast for superhero enthusiasts—it’s like the Avengers of board games! It’s fantastic fun to see friends argue whether Tony Stark should be a robot or genius. For the Marvel fanatics in your life, this is a must-play.
5 Codenames: Deep Undercover
Feeling a bit cheeky? Codenames: Deep Undercover adds a bit of adult humor to the game. With risqué words and tongue-in-cheek clues, it’s perfect for late-night gaming sessions with friends where a little naughtiness is welcome. Just make sure the kids are tucked in bed first! We once laughed so hard with this game that we ended up making the neighbors curious about our game nights.
4 Codenames: Undercover
Codenames: Undercover introduces a light-hearted and adult-themed twist to the classic game. This version takes the original and spices it up with some cheeky humor—perfect for when you want to have a good laugh with friends while exploring double entendres. It’s the late-night game that we break out when the kids are finally asleep, and we’re ready for some grown-up chatter. Who doesn’t love a game that can make you blush and laugh out loud?
3 Codenames: Simpsons
D’oh! Yep, Codenames: Simpsons is every fan’s dream. This game brings Springfield to your table with all your favorite yellow-skinned characters and iconic locations. It’s perfect for Simpsons enthusiasts who have an enviable memory of the show’s episodes and quotes. Once, our friend Chris used a clue associated with ‘donut’ and the entire room instantly guessed Homer. It’s uncanny how well this version captures the spirit of the show.
2 Codenames: XXL Duet
Codenames: XXL Duet brings cooperative magic on a grand scale with its oversized cards. It’s great for those who want the cooperative thrill of Duet but with added visibility for larger groups. It’s the same, but with extra dramatic flair. We had this at a convention once and managed to pull a crowd as people gathered around to watch. If you’ve got the space, why not go big?
1 Codenames: Images
Codenames: Images is the game for those who say a picture is worth a thousand words. This version swaps words for pictures, adding a visual twist to the classic spy game. If you’ve ever tried to give clues about abstract art, you know how hilariously challenging it can be! It’s perfect for visual thinkers and those who want a different kind of brain teaser. Plus, it’s always funny to see what connections your friends make based on bizarre drawings.
