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Codenames

Codenames is a word association game where two teams compete to identify secret agents from a grid of words using single-word clues. Spymasters must be clever and concise, while teammates work to avoid the dreaded assassin word. It’s strategic, social, and full of “how did you think that?!” moments.

Mechanics:

Area Management, Asymmetry, Deduction, Limited Action, Memory, Observation, Pattern Building, Push Your Luck, Turn-based, Wordplay,

Dynamics:

Attention, Communication, Creativity, Critical Thinking, Cultural Intelligence, Decision Making, Goal Setting, Listening, Organization, Self Advocacy, Strategy Development, Time Management,

HOW TO PLAY

Written Instructions:

Play Personalities

Explorer, Competitor, Director, Storyteller,

As a Physical Game

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As a Digital Game

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As an Opener

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As a Core Activity

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As a Closer

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FACILITATION SUPPORT

An Expert in Your Pocket

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Buy / Access

Czech Games Edition: https://shop.czechgames.com/codenames/

DIY Notes:

Variations

> Custom word cards 

> Third team of neutral color 

> Different clue giving format or medium 

> Pictures, Duet, XXL editions

Pulse Check

Q - Are people having fun — smiling, laughing, in deep thought? 

Q - Does everyone seem open to keep playing? Are the disengaged able to be more engaged? 

Q - Do you hear productive strategizing about how to improve process or results?

What

Position the reflection around goals and metrics, as well as the skills and roles to succeed: 

Q - What is one thing about you that would help your team members work with you better? 

Q - Did this game give you ideas about how to better advocate for yourself? 

Q - What strengths and talents did you witness, and how could the team better leverage them?

Think

Position the reflection around rational planning and communication methods: 

Q - Did this game illuminate any patterns in how you give and receive information? 

Q - How might it be helpful to know the preferences and tendencies of your colleagues? 

Q - Could your team benefit from additional or more diverse perspectives?

Have feedback? Offer your thoughts here:

Learning Preambles

COMING SOON

Connected Playlists

What  |  Think

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