Expertise: Board game rules expert. | Verification: Cross-referenced official rulebook text regarding game end conditions. | Purpose: Resolve the #1 source of confusion regarding the assassin mechanic in Codenames.
Key Insight: To avoid arguments, ensure the spymaster covers the assassin card immediately to signal the end of play.
These rules correspond to the UK edition of Codenames.
In Codenames, the assassin is a black square that should never be contacted. According to the official rules, when a field operative touches the assassin, the word is covered by the assassin card, which ends the game instantly. The team that made contact with the assassin is declared the loser. This is a sudden-death mechanic that overrides the standard goal of collecting all your team's agents.
Step-by-Step
Step 1: A field operative selects a codename on the table.
Step 2: The operative touches the chosen word.
Step 3: The spymaster reveals the secret identity by covering the word with the assassin card.
Step 4: The game ends immediately and the team that touched the word loses.
Example Play Situation
Alice is playing as a field operative for the Red Team. Her spymaster, Bob, gives the clue 'Water: 2'. Alice touches the word RIVER, which is a red agent, so she gets to guess again. However, Alice then touches the word HORN, which is the assassin. Bob covers the card with the assassin card, and the Red Team immediately loses the game.
Common Misconceptions
Touching the assassin only ends the current turn
The other team wins if you touch the assassin
You can continue guessing after touching the assassin
Quick Reference
You Can
You Cannot
Focus on the table when making guesses
Do not make eye contact with the spymaster
Avoid eye contact with the spymaster while guessing
Do not reach for any card while teammates are considering words
Ensure your clue does not relate to the assassin
Do not use clues that refer to letter positions or table locations
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the official rule for touching the assassin in Codenames?
The game ends immediately and the team that touched the assassin loses.
Does the other team win if I touch the assassin?
Yes, the team that contacts the assassin loses, effectively handing the win to the opponents.
Can I keep guessing if I hit the assassin?
No, touching the assassin ends the game instantly without further guesses.
What happens if a spymaster gives an invalid clue?
The team's turn ends immediately, and the opposing spymaster may cover one word.
David Noah is a board game rules specialist and content creator who writes clear, dispute‑free guides for modern tabletop games. On this site, he focuses on answering the exact rules questions players argue about at the table, using official rulebooks, expansions, and tournament rulings as his primary sources. His goal is to turn confusing edge cases into simple, step‑by‑step explanations so you can spend less time debating and more time playing.
