Codenames has a digital version on Netflix, developed by Czech Games Edition (CGE), the publisher behind the word game. The adaptation is part of Netflix’s push into social TV experiences and can be played by subscribers using their phones as controllers.Called Codenames Party, the game retains the core mechanics of the original but adds a mode where up to ten players compete individually rather than in teams. CGE said Netflix initially approached the publisher to negotiate a license. After trying its existing mobile app, Netflix changed its proposal and hired CGE to develop the digital version.The deal opens up a new way to discover a game that is nearing 20 million physical copies sold. A CGE spokesperson said the opportunity to reach a different audience and the benefits of associating the brand with Netflix were important factors for the publisher.Codenames and its spin-offs account for about 80% of CGE’s annual sales. The company’s marketing manager, Ondřej Skácel, said the deal was not expected to transform the publisher financially, as revenue from the tabletop version remains on another scale. CGE was paid to develop the adaptation and will also receive ongoing licensing payments.Codenames Party’s visual identity raised questions among players about the use of artificial intelligence. CGE denied that the game or its promotional materials contain AI-generated content, saying the work was done by illustrators and graphic designers.Originally released in late 2015, Codenames won the Spiel des Jahres the following year and spawned spin-offs including Codenames: Pictures and Codenames: Duet. The publisher began exploring digital formats with Codenames Online, released in 2019, followed by a mobile app developed by the CGE Digital team in 2024. The company has also left open the possibility of bringing other games to Netflix or similar platforms.
Reactions
0
0 Comments
Be the first to comment
Nothing here yet.