How can I add a real-life friend to my in-game friend list?
On your main screen, tapping the button in the upper left corner will open your friends list. At the bottom is a place for you to type your friend’s in-game name (just remember that each of you must have the Codenames app installed).
Is there a Pass & Play option to let me play locally with friends when we don’t have the physical Codenames game on hand?
Yes. It’s one of the PLAY WITH FRIENDS options.
How does a friendly game work?
When playing standard missions, the matchmaking server connects you with the players you don’t know. If you want to play with your friends, you must put them on your friend list and invite them to the friendly game. Just tap on PLAY WITH FRIENDS and choose NEW GAME. You can name your game, select the game mode (you can play Team vs Team, Team vs Assassin, or any unlocked VIP mode), and choose the word categories. Choose your friends from your friends list, grab them, and move to available game slots.
You can enable or disable the clue warnings or other tips. Also there is no time limit for your friendly games, so you don’t have to worry about being replaced.