In Codenames, two rival spymasters know the secret identities of 25 agents. Their teammates, however, only know these agents by their codenames — single, seemingly random words like “chocolate,” “sunflower,” or even “carrot.” (Yes, there's an agent out there codenamed "carrot".)


The goal is simple: each spymaster wants their team to identify all of their agents first — without accidentally revealing the assassin.


To play, lay out 25 cards, each with a single word on it. The spymasters share a key card that shows which words correspond to agents from each team, innocent bystanders, and the assassin. They then take turns giving one-word clues followed by a number. The clue word should relate to multiple cards their team should guess, and the number tells their teammates how many cards are connected to that clue.

Teammates guess one card at a time. If they pick correctly, they can continue guessing. But if they select a card belonging to the other team, or an innocent bystander, their turn ends. And if they choose the assassin? Game over.

Play continues with each spymaster offering new clues until one team has identified all their agents, or someone tragically stumbles upon the assassin.

Prepare for clever clues, bold guesses, and the ultimate race to uncover your team’s secret agents—Codenames makes every game night unforgettable!