Codenames is about to get a serious makeover. The word-guessing party game that has become a staple of family gatherings and game nights is being rebuilt into a co-operative campaign starring the heroes of Critical Role. Czech Games Edition has revealed Codenames: Critical Role Adventures, and it is a long way from the quick-fire party game you know.
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Start organising for freeThis one is fully co-operative. One player takes the role of game master, giving the clues, while everyone else forms a party of adventurers working through a series of missions. You pick three of seven iconic Critical Role characters, Vex (and Trinket), Percy, Grog, Jester, Nott, Dorian and Fresh Cut Grass, and set off across three branching campaigns. Each hero has personal abilities that unlock as they earn experience, gear you can buy along the way, and a 20-sided die for the skill checks that decide whether a risky play comes off. Individual missions run about 25 minutes, so it scales from a quick session to a full campaign night.
It comes from a strong pedigree. The original Codenames is the work of Vlaada Chvátil, who won the Spiel des Jahres for it in 2016, and he is joined here by co-designer Felix Podlesny. A Vox Machina expansion pack launches alongside the base game, adding the fan-favourite druid Keyleth to the roster.
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Set up your group for freeCzech Games Edition has the game down for a Q3 2026 release. A co-operative, campaign-driven Codenames is a tidy gateway for groups who love a party game but fancy something with a bit more meat. If that sounds like your crowd, it is the perfect excuse to rally a regular game night or find a group near you.
Sources: Czech Games Edition | Wargamer
