Game guide · SXSMQZJ
Minesweeper: how a round works
Read the aim of Minesweeper, then make your first move. 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. Keep the game area visible while you use its controls.
Take a closer look while playing
When a decision goes wrong, compare it with the common mistake described below. Start again only when you intend to leave the current round. Refer to the controls when needed.
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. Use the instructions to see which actions move you towards it. Try to explain the aim in your own words.
From the start of a round
- 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.
Keyboard and screen controls
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. Read the example below alongside these instructions.
Try this example
A revealed 1 with only one covered neighbour means that neighbour contains a mine. Use the example as a guide rather than a substitute for reading your board. Read the matching step again.
Keep this in mind
A flag is your own note, not a confirmation from the game. Remove a mistaken flag before opening that square. A different version of the game may use a different rule. Compare the worked example with your own position. Use the reasoning, not an answer copied from a different board.
If you are unsure
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.
How do I control Minesweeper?
For clarity: Click/tap to open. Right-click to flag, or use the Flag mode toggle for touch devices.
For this browser game, what example helps explain Minesweeper?
For clarity: A revealed 1 means exactly one neighbouring square contains a mine. The clue counts diagonal neighbours as well as the squares directly beside it.
Before I begin, what should I watch out for in Minesweeper?
Here is the relevant explanation: A flag is your own note, not a confirmation from the game. Remove a mistaken flag before opening that square.
For a quick reminder, what format does Minesweeper offer?
For clarity: Play using the solo mode shown on this page. Read the controls before starting a new round.
When I return, which play mode does Minesweeper use?
For clarity: The mode on this page is Solo. Same-device play uses one screen; this game library does not provide internet matchmaking.
For my first round, where should I start with Minesweeper?
For clarity: Open a covered square to reveal it.
On this playing page, 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.
For this browser game, how do I report an issue with Minesweeper?
Here is the relevant explanation: 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.