Codenames

Objective

Work with your team to guess words on a grid using one-word clues. Each clue links multiple words — but one belongs to the opposing team.

How to play

1. A 5x5 grid of word cards is laid out. One card is the assassin — finding it loses the game.
2. Two spymasters give clues; each clue is one word plus a number.
3. The number tells your team how many words to guess that start with the clue word.
4. Correct guesses reveal friendly cards; wrong guesses end your turn.

Scoring

Each friendly card found scores 1 point. The game ends when all friendly cards are found, the assassin is found, or time runs out. Most points wins.

Example round

1. The spymaster gives the clue 'ocean 3'.
2. The team considers 'wave', 'tide', and 'shore' as possible answers.
3. Each guess is a single word that the clue connects — if correct, it reveals a friendly card.
4. A wrong guess ends the turn immediately.

Strategy tips

• Give clues that link the most friendly words while avoiding the assassin.
• Consider words with multiple meanings — a single clue can cover surprising connections.
• Protect your team's words by blocking the opponent's obvious links.
• Know when to take a risk versus playing it safe with a small association.

Best with

Best with 4+ players split into two teams — at least 2 players per side, one spymaster and one or more operatives.

Variations

• Play with a shorter grid for a quicker game, or a longer grid for a bigger challenge.
• Use themed word lists to focus the clues on a particular domain.
• Add a timer constraint for a speed round variant.

FAQ