Im not sure when it happened, but board games are cool again.

At some point though, that gets boring.

Well, okay, not boring per se, but at least less exciting than when you were fifteen.

A love letter to Codenames – a brilliant, easy-to-pick-up board game

And definitely less adult.

Or, maybe, just maybe, board games are fucking dope.

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One thing I do know is thatCodenamesis brilliantand I love it and you will too.

Wait, dont run thisll be fun, probably.

Fine, give me the context.

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Ive been into board games for a while, but my recent move to Amsterdam has stoked this further.

Moving to a new country and making decent mates isnt easy.

Now, Im not talking about knowing someone, Im talking aboutknowingthem.

Callum Booth

That pop in of knowing.

It turned out a few people were bringing friends, meaning around ten folks were turning up.

And you know what?

Its been one of my best purchases.

Okay then but tell me how Codenames works.

Its joyously simple, but as with most board games it sounds more complex than it is.

Simply put, its a clue-based word-guessing game.

First off, players split into two teams, red and blue.

From each one of these teams a spymaster is selected.

These are the individuals who will give the clues.

A 55 grid of 25 word cards are laid out in front of everyone.

There are a few more intricacies to the rules, but theres no need to explain them here.

The spymaster has the hardest role, as giving clues is much tougher than it sounds.

The rest of the players, on the other hand, have a far easier time.

This is one of the many positives ofCodenames.

Whos Codenames for?

Anyone who wants a party-style board game.

Since that fateful afternoon, Ive playedCodenamesin a variety of controls.

With close family, non-board game loving friends, work colleagues, and more.

Each and every time Ive played, people have (seemingly) enjoyed it.

Well, it depends on what you mean by that.

Its a simple, word-based game suitable for all kinds of people.

If youre into complex titles and hate wordplay, this isnt for you.

But,Codenamesis perfect at being an easy-to-play, fun game.

And, in my opinion, you need it in your board game arsenal.

Its almost as good as drinking in the park.

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