CGE Czech Games Edition Codenames Party Board Game, 2nd Edition — 5×5 Word Grid, Updated Artwork & Insert

Codenames (2nd Edition) is a team-based party board game where two spymasters give one-word clues to help teammates identify all their secret agents on a 5×5 word grid before the opposing team.

This updated print of the award-winning Codenames keeps the original’s fast-paced deduction and social bluffing while refining components and clarity. The new edition includes refreshed artwork, revised word cards, an improved insert for neat storage, and a streamlined rulebook to get players from setup to play faster. Ideal for casual game nights, classrooms, and parties, it challenges teams to connect words creatively while managing risk—the assassin card still ends the round instantly if revealed.

How does the spymaster mechanic work in Codenames?

One player on each team becomes the spymaster who privately sees a key card that marks agent identities on the 5×5 layout. The spymaster gives a single-word clue and a number to indicate how many words the clue relates to; teammates then guess which words match that hint.

• Spymaster uses the key card to know which words are friendly agents, opponents, bystanders, or the assassin.
• Clue format: one word plus a number (e.g., “ocean: 2”) to link multiple cards.
• Teammates may guess up to the clue number plus one, allowing a cautious extra guess.
• Accidentally revealing the assassin ends the game immediately, increasing tension and strategy.

What’s new in the 2nd Edition compared with earlier prints?

The second edition modernizes several production and content details for smoother play and longevity. You’ll find refreshed artwork across cards, a rebalanced set of word cards to improve replay value, and an improved insert that keeps pieces organized between sessions.

• Revised word list reduces repetition and expands creative clue possibilities.
• Refreshed art gives clearer typography and visuals for easy reading at the table.
• A better insert helps protect cards and speeds setup and cleanup.
• Streamlined rulebook clarifies corner cases and shortens learning time.

How long does a typical game take and how many players can join?

A typical Codenames round lasts 15–30 minutes depending on team discussion and guessing speed, making it a flexible option for short sessions or longer game nights. The game is best with four or more players split into two teams, but larger groups can rotate spymasters or expand team size easily.

• Average play time: 15–30 minutes per round, suitable for multiple quick plays.
• Recommended players: 4+; scalable to large groups by expanding teams.
• Works for brief play between other activities or as a main party game.
• Quick setup and teardown thanks to the improved insert and clear components.

Who is this for? Codenames (2nd Edition) suits social players who enjoy wordplay, teamwork, and strategic risk-taking without heavy rules overhead. It’s perfect for groups that like fast, replayable experiences—families, college groups, office game nights, and casual gamers. If you appreciate clever clues, bluffing, and a game that scales to multiple players with minimal prep, this edition refines the classic in ways both newcomers and longtime fans will notice.