Codenames-Style Word Game Online
Code Words is a free browser team game for 4–12 players, rated Hard and suggested for ages 12 and up. Two teams, 25 words, one secret key. Spymasters give one-word clues to find their agents. A game takes about 15 min. There is nothing to download and no sign-up.
How to play Code Words
Make two teams
Split into Red and Blue. Each team picks one spymaster.
Spymasters open the key
Spymasters open this room on their own phone (share the room link or code) and tap Spymaster to see which words belong to which team.
Spymaster gives a clue
The spymaster of the team on turn says one word and a number, for example “Ocean 2”, and enters it. The word must link to that many of their team’s cards.
Team taps its guesses
Operatives discuss and tap cards. A card of your colour lets you keep going, up to the number plus one. A neutral or enemy card ends the turn. The black card loses the game.
Game over
A team wins by finding all its words, or when the other team hits the black card. Tap New for another board.
Tip: A clue for two cards that works is worth more than a clue for four that does not.
Stuck mid-game? Tap ? Help at the top of the game. It shows what to do at the exact step you are on.
Quick facts
- Players
- 4–12
- Time
- 15 min
- Devices
- One phone each, by room link
- Difficulty
- Hard
- Suggested age
- 12+
- Cost
- Free
- Type
- Team games
- Good for
- Office, Family, Video calls, Large groups
Code Words FAQ
How many people can play Code Words?
Code Words works with 4–12 players.
How do you play Code Words?
Make two teams. Spymasters open the key. Spymaster gives a clue. Team taps its guesses. Game over. The full steps are on this page, and the Help button inside the game explains each stage as you reach it.
Is Code Words free? Do I need to download an app?
It is free. It runs in the browser on phones, tablets and laptops. There is nothing to install and no account to create.
How hard is Code Words, and what age is it for?
Code Words is rated Hard. Bluffing, deduction or word strategy. Best once the group has warmed up. The suggested age is 12 and up. That is a guide: younger players can usually join with an adult on their team.
Can everyone play Code Words on their own phone?
Yes. Tap Copy invite link and send it to the group. Everyone who opens the link joins the same room, so each phone shows the same game or that player’s own card for the room.
Is this the official Codenames game?
No. Code Words is an original free game in a similar style to Codenames. It is not affiliated with or endorsed by the makers of Codenames.
Any tips for Code Words?
A clue for two cards that works is worth more than a clue for four that does not.
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