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If you like hosting game parties, then a copy of Codenames should be on your game shelf. If your not familiar with Codenames it is a game where you use deduction and try to figure out where your secret agents are by using a codename before you opponent can find all his agents. I have always had a blast playing Codenames and it has always been a hit at my parties, but its fun to mix it up a bit and play other games too. So what are some games like Codenames that have similar elements of play?
Luckily for you, I have put together a list of several other games like Codenames that have similar mechanics. These are all great games to have if you love playing board games!
Before I get into my list of games like Codenames, did you know that there are many, many other versions of Codenames? These can add a variety to your gaming experience if you are a fan of Codenames. There is Duet, Pictures, Deep Undercover, Disney, Harry Potter, Marvel, The Simpsons, and others! Here is a link to most of the other Codenames versions available.
Quick Picks at a Glance
In a hurry and want the absolute best picks from this page? Here you are!
Best Overall
Best Party Game
Best Budget Game
Best Games Like Codenames
Here are some of the best games like Codenames.
Dixit
| 3-6 Players |
| Play Time: 30 minutes |
| Age: 8+ |
Dixit is a storytelling game that features gorgeous, fantastical illustrations. The game is easy to learn and is great for families and friends alike. Players take turns selecting a card and providing a clue inspired by the card. The other players then choose cards that they think match the clue. The cards are shuffled and revealed, and players secretly vote for the card that best matches the narrator’s story. The player whose card is chosen scores points. With its dreamlike illustrations and engaging gameplay, Dixit is sure to provide hours of fun!
Mysterium
| 2-7 Players |
| Play Time: 42 minutes |
| Age: 10+ |
Mysterium is the perfect board game for families and friends who enjoy playing together and solving mysteries. In the game, one player takes on the role of the victim (who is now a ghost) and the rest play as psychics. The goal is to interpret visions from the ghost in order to solve the mystery and determine who the actual murderer is. The great thing about Mysterium is that there is high variability – with dozens of different suspects, weapons and locations, no two games are ever the same. So get ready to use your detective skills and have some fun!
Decrypto
| 3-8 Players |
| Play Time: 15-45 minutes |
| Age: 12+ |
Looking for a new party game that will have your guests on the edge of their seats? Look no further than Decrypto! This clever game uses anaglyph effects to scramble codes, and slide cards into the screen to decode your words. There’s no down time between turns, so everyone needs to focus while the other team plays. Be the first team to transmit all of their secret codes without letting the opposing team intercept them, and you’ll be crowned champions!
Spy Alley
| 2-6 Players |
| Play Time: 45 minutes |
| Age: 8+ |
Introducing Spy Alley, the thrilling game of international espionage! In Spy Alley, each player assumes the role of a secret agent from a different country. The object of the game is to collect all the necessary items for your nationality and make it to the winners square. But beware – your opponents may try to guess your identity and foil your plans! If they guess correctly, you’re out. But if they guess incorrectly, they’re out! It’s a thrilling game of bluffing and deduction that’s sure to keep you on your toes. So round up your friends and get ready for a game of Spy Alley!
Best Budget Games Under $20
On a budget and only have a little extra cash to spend? Don’t worry, you can still get an amazing game to play that is worth the money. Here are the best budget games like Codenames.
The Chameleon
| 2-4 Players |
| Play Time: 15 minutes |
| Age: 14+ |
Looking for a fun, family-friendly board game that will have you on the edge of your seat? Look no further than The Chameleon! In this game of social deduction, players must race to catch the chameleon before it gets away. But be careful – everyone knows the secret word, except for the player with the chameleon card. Use hidden codes, carefully chosen words, and a bit of finger-pointing to track down the guilty player…before they blend in and escape!
Hanabi
| 2-5 Players |
| Play Time: 25 minutes |
| Age: 8+ |
Hanabi is the perfect game for those who love to work together! With just 5 cards in each player’s hand, you must rely on your fellow players to help you create a dazzling display of fireworks. Remember, you can see everyone’s cards except your own- so communication is key! Avoid a fizzling fiasco and light them all up for the ultimate victory!
Party Games Like Codenames
Here are a few party games like Codenames that are meant to be played in bigger groups. I’m sure you will love these games!
Monikers
| 4-16 Players |
| Play Time: 30-60 minutes |
| Age: 17+ |
Looking for a party game that will have everyone laughing? Look no further than Monikers! In this game, players have to guess as many weird or inappropriate names as they can in one minute. With rounds that change up the rules and 440 cards of strange and interesting names, you’ll never run out of fun. So gather your friends and get ready to have a blast!
One Night Ultimate Werewolf
| 3-10 Players |
| Play Time: 10 minutes |
| Age: 8+ |
One Night Ultimate Werewolf is the perfect game for those who love deduction and deception. Each player gets a unique role, such as Werewolf, Seer, or Troublemaker, each with different special abilities. After a secret night phase that includes changing roles, players have just five minutes to find the Werewolf! The free iOS/Android app makes playing incredibly engaging and addictive – perfect for any gaming enthusiast. May be combined with One Night Ultimate Werewolf Daybreak and One Night Ultimate Vampire for epic battles.
Taboo
| 4-10 Players |
| Play Time: 20 minutes |
| Age: 12+ |
Taboo is the perfect game for any get together! Whether you’re looking to break the ice at a party or just want to have some fun, Taboo is sure to please. With 450 cards included in the game, there are plenty of opportunities for laughter and embarrassment. Race against the timer to win as many cards as you can to win. And if you happen to say a Forbidden word on one of the cards, you’ll get interrupted by the buzzer and lose a turn. So be careful what you say!
Games like Codenames Duet
Looking for a two player game like Codenames Duet? Here are is something that is similar.
Medium
| 2-8 Players |
| Play Time: 30-45 minutes |
| Age: 14+ |
In Medium, players act as psychic mediums, harnessing their powerful extra-sensory abilities to access other players’ thoughts. One player places a card down, and then the next player places another card down. Both players think of a word that connects the words on their two cards, and then attempt to say the same word at the same time!
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Codenames Similar to Taboo?
Yes, its fairly similar. In both games you will be giving your teammates hints so they can correctly guess the word you are thinking of.
Is Codenames a good party game?
Yes, absolutely! I think Codenames is a great game to have during parties!
What is the difference in Codenames and Codenames Pictures?
The main difference is that in regular Codenames there is a word on the back of the agent cards that you try to guess. In Codename Pictures there is an image on the back of the agents card instead of a word that you must guess from your hint.
Is there a dirty version of Codenames?
Yes, Codenames Deep Undercover 2.0 uses words that are more “adult”, and can make party night more spicy!
Conclusion
Hopefully you will enjoy these games like Codenames as much as i do! They are sure to add a lot more variety to your game nights if you are a fan of Codenames! So grab some new games and invite your friends over. I guarantee you will have lots of Board Game Smiles!
Check out my other posts!
20 Best Board Games for 6 Players For Epic Parties
Top 10 Mystery Board Game List for Exciting Nail-Biting Fun
15 Board Games with Questions for an Awesome Game Night