Codenames: Duet (2017) Board Game

Codenames: Duet is a cooperative word game that was released in 2017 by Czech Games Edition. It is designed by Vlaada Chvátil and Scot Eaton, with artwork by Tomáš Kučerovský. The game is a spin-off of the original Codenames game, but with a twist that allows for two players to work together to complete the mission.

Game Components of Codenames: Duet

Several hundred clue cards

15 agent tiles

1 Assassin tile

100 key cards with a plastic stand

11 time/innocent bystander tokens

A rule book

A pad of mission maps

25 word cards laid out in a 5×5 grid.

How To Setup Codenames: Duet

To set up the game, lay out 25 word cards in a 5×5 grid between the players. Place a key card in the holder so each player sees only one side. Each side of the key card shows 9 green words (agents) and 3 black words (assassins). The green agent cards and the Assassin tile are placed within reach. Time tokens are set aside, with the suggestion to start with 9 or 11 tokens depending on the desired difficulty level. Players sit on opposite sides of the table to ensure each can only see their side of the key card.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Cooperative Play: Players work together to identify all their agents.

Clue Giving: Players give one-word clues along with a number indicating how many words the clue relates to.

Word Association: Clues must relate to multiple words on the grid without pointing to assassins or innocent bystanders.

Deduction: Players deduce the correct words based on the given clues.

Objective: Find all 15 agents (with some words overlapping on both sides of the key card) within 9 turns or less to win. Avoid guessing assassins or too many innocent bystanders, as this can result in immediate loss or running out of turns.

Player Experience

Codenames: Duet is praised for its engaging and challenging gameplay, particularly suited for couples or two-player sessions. Players appreciate the need to think and work together, which adds a fun and bonding element to the game. The game’s pressure and time limit create a thrilling experience, making it enjoyable and invigorating. However, some players find it more difficult than the original Codenames, partly due to the specificity of the words and the cooperative nature.

Pros

Cooperative Gameplay: Encourages teamwork and communication.

Engaging and Challenging: Keeps players on their toes with its time limit and complex clues.

Great for Couples: Ideal for two-player sessions, offering a fun and bonding experience.

Variable Difficulty: Allows players to adjust the difficulty level to suit their preferences.

Replayability: High replay value due to the large number of clue cards and variable key cards.

Cons

Steep Learning Curve: Some players find it harder than the original Codenames due to the specific words and cooperative mechanics.

Time Pressure: The time limit can be stressful, especially for new players.

Quality of Components: Some users mention that the card quality is not the best, although the tiles are nice and thick.

Personal Thoughts on Codenames: Duet

Codenames: Duet is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a cooperative word game that is both challenging and fun. It is particularly well-suited for couples or those who enjoy playing games with a partner. The game’s ability to maintain the core elements of the original Codenames while introducing a cooperative twist makes it a refreshing and exciting addition to any board game collection. If you enjoy word games, deduction, and cooperative play, Codenames: Duet is definitely worth considering.

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