Game guide · 400286
The essentials of playing Minesweeper
Make Minesweeper your next activity in the game library. Open all 71 safe cells. Opening a mine ends the round. Flags help you mark suspected mines but do not replace opening safe cells. Look at what changes after your first action. Make your first input carefully and watch the result. Use the example below to understand a decision.
A focus for your next round
Read one step at a time and try it on the playing area. Match the instruction to the control you use. Notice the feedback after each input.
What you are aiming for
Open all 71 safe cells. Opening a mine ends the round. Flags help you mark suspected mines but do not replace opening safe cells. The feedback beside the game helps you follow the round. Try to explain the aim in your own words.
The steps to play
- Open a covered square to reveal it.
- A number counts mines in the surrounding eight positions.
- Right-click to flag on a computer, or enable Flag mode on a phone.
- Use safe deductions to open the remaining cells.
How to interact with the game
Click/tap to open. Right-click to flag, or use the Flag mode toggle for touch devices. Read a button’s label before selecting it. Use one clear input at a time.
Work through an example
A revealed 1 means exactly one neighbouring square contains a mine. The clue counts diagonal neighbours as well as the squares directly beside it. Compare this with the rule that governs the move. Notice the change in the playing area.
A useful caution
A flag is your own note, not a confirmation from the game. Remove a mistaken flag before opening that square. Compare the situation with the worked example. Read one step at a time and try it on the playing area. Match the instruction to the control you use.
A few questions answered
What is the goal of Minesweeper?
Keep this in mind: Open all 71 safe cells. Opening a mine ends the round. Flags help you mark suspected mines but do not replace opening safe cells.
When I return, how do I control Minesweeper?
The key detail is this: Click/tap to open. Right-click to flag, or use the Flag mode toggle for touch devices.
When I return, what example helps explain Minesweeper?
Here is the relevant explanation: A revealed 1 means exactly one neighbouring square contains a mine. The clue counts diagonal neighbours as well as the squares directly beside it.
For a quick reminder, what should I watch out for in Minesweeper?
Keep this in mind: A flag is your own note, not a confirmation from the game. Remove a mistaken flag before opening that square.
While learning, what format does Minesweeper offer?
Keep this in mind: Play using the solo mode shown on this page. Read the controls before starting a new round.
Before I begin, which play mode does Minesweeper use?
Here is the relevant explanation: The mode on this page is Solo. Same-device play uses one screen; this game library does not provide internet matchmaking.
Where should I start with Minesweeper?
Open a covered square to reveal it.
Before I begin, do I need an account or a payment for Minesweeper?
For clarity: No player account or payment is needed. Game scores are recreational results, not cash prizes.
How can I find Minesweeper again?
Use the Games list or save this game page in your browser bookmarks. The Guide is linked from the playing page.
How do I report an issue with Minesweeper?
Keep this in mind: Use the contact form and include the game name, browser, device and the actions that led to the issue. Do not send passwords or payment details.
