Game guide · QWBEN
The Minesweeper playbook
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. Check the relevant rule before repeating a move. Make your first input carefully and watch the result. Use the example below to understand a decision.
Build familiarity through play
Take enough time to read a new position. If a game has a timer, learn its controls first rather than searching for them during the round. Refer to the controls when needed.
Aim for this result
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. Notice how the game responds to your input.
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.
The controls to know
Click/tap to open. Right-click to flag, or use the Flag mode toggle for touch devices. Use the control method described here for this activity. Avoid pressing the same control repeatedly while a move is being processed.
Put the rules into context
A revealed 1 with only one covered neighbour means that neighbour contains a mine. Your next round may have a different position, so inspect it before acting. Read the matching step again.
A common point of confusion
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. Before your first action, say what you are trying to achieve. Then compare the result with the goal.
Questions about this game
For a quick reminder, what is the goal of Minesweeper?
For clarity: 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?
Keep this in mind: Click/tap to open. Right-click to flag, or use the Flag mode toggle for touch devices.
Before I begin, what example helps explain Minesweeper?
A revealed 1 with only one covered neighbour means that neighbour contains a mine.
While reading the Guide, 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?
Here is the relevant explanation: Play using the solo mode shown on this page. Read the controls before starting a new round.
For a quick reminder, which play mode does Minesweeper use?
The key detail is this: The mode on this page is Solo. Same-device play uses one screen; this game library does not provide internet matchmaking.
When I return, where should I start with Minesweeper?
Keep this in mind: Open a covered square to reveal it.
As a new player, do I need an account or a payment for Minesweeper?
Here is the relevant explanation: No player account or payment is needed. Game scores are recreational results, not cash prizes.
While reading the Guide, how can I find Minesweeper again?
The key detail is this: Use the Games list or save this game page in your browser bookmarks. The Guide is linked from the playing page.
On this 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.