Game guide · MXZTJ
Minesweeper: instructions and practice
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. Choose a clear next step rather than rushing through the instructions. Make your first input carefully and watch the result. Use the example below to understand a decision.
A focus for your next round
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. Notice the feedback after each input.
The challenge in front of you
Open all 71 safe cells. Opening a mine ends the round. Flags help you mark suspected mines but do not replace opening safe cells. Read that aim before choosing your first action. 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.
Getting comfortable with the controls
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. Read the example below alongside these instructions.
Learn from a sample situation
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. Take a moment to compare.
Where a round can go wrong
A flag is your own note, not a confirmation from the game. Remove a mistaken flag before opening that square. Check the rule before repeating the action. Choose one rule to keep in mind for this round. Apply it consistently rather than guessing what another version might allow.
Clarifying the way this game works
As a new player, what is the goal of Minesweeper?
Here is the relevant explanation: 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?
For clarity: Click/tap to open. Right-click to flag, or use the Flag mode toggle for touch devices.
On this playing page, what example helps explain Minesweeper?
A revealed 1 with only one covered neighbour means that neighbour contains a mine.
For this browser game, what should I watch out for in Minesweeper?
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?
Here is the relevant explanation: Play using the solo mode shown on this page. Read the controls before starting a new round.
As a new player, 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 this browser game, where should I start with Minesweeper?
Open a covered square to reveal it.
When I return, do I need an account or a payment for Minesweeper?
Keep this in mind: No player account or payment is needed. Game scores are recreational results, not cash prizes.
While learning, how can I find Minesweeper again?
Keep this in mind: Use the Games list or save this game page in your browser bookmarks. The Guide is linked from the playing page.
Before I begin, how do I report an issue with Minesweeper?
For clarity: 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.