Word Spy
A team-based word guessing game
4–10 players
Word Spy is a team-based word guessing game inspired by the classic Codenames. Players split into two teams — Red and Blue — each with a Spymaster and Operatives. A 5x5 grid of words is laid out, and only the Spymasters know which words belong to which team. Spymasters take turns giving one-word clues to help their Operatives identify the correct words on the board. But be careful — one word is the Assassin, and guessing it means instant defeat. Word Spy tests your ability to communicate creatively under pressure, making connections between seemingly unrelated words.
How to Play
- 1
Players divide into two teams (Red and Blue). Each team selects one Spymaster; the rest are Operatives.
- 2
A 5x5 grid of 25 random words is displayed. Spymasters can see the full color-coded board showing which words belong to each team.
- 3
The starting team's Spymaster gives a one-word clue followed by a number indicating how many words on the board relate to that clue.
- 4
Operatives discuss and tap words they think match the clue. Correct guesses reveal the card in their team's color.
- 5
If Operatives guess a word belonging to the opposing team, their turn ends and the opposing team benefits. If they hit a neutral word, their turn simply ends.
- 6
If any Operative reveals the Assassin word, their team immediately loses the game.
- 7
Teams alternate turns until one team reveals all of their words, or a team hits the Assassin.
Win Conditions
There is no point system in Word Spy — it is a race to find all your team's words first. The first team to correctly identify all of their assigned words wins. However, the game can end instantly if a team accidentally reveals the Assassin word, resulting in that team's immediate loss. Strategy is about balancing ambition with caution — broad clues can help you find multiple words at once, but risk hitting the wrong card.
Tips & Strategies
- •
As Spymaster, look for clues that connect multiple words at once. A clue that covers 3 words can swing the game.
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Avoid clues that could accidentally point to the Assassin or opposing team's words. Check the board carefully.
- •
As an Operative, discuss with your team before guessing. Multiple perspectives catch connections you might miss.
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If you are unsure, it is often safer to end your turn early rather than risk hitting the Assassin.
- •
Pay attention to the opposing Spymaster's clues — they reveal information about which words belong to their team.
Customizable Settings
The host can choose the word language (Turkish or English), set the timer for giving clues, and adjust the guess timer for Operatives. An unlimited guesses option allows teams to keep guessing without a cap, adding more strategic depth to each turn.
Players
Word Spy requires 4 to 10 players (at least 2 per team). The ideal group size is 6 to 8 players, giving each team a Spymaster and 2-3 Operatives for rich team discussion.