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Minesweeper

Mines Left
10
Status
🙂
Time
000

About Minesweeper

Minesweeper is the classic logic puzzle game that challenges players to clear a minefield without detonating any mines. Made famous by Microsoft Windows, this strategic game combines logical deduction with careful risk assessment, making it one of the most recognizable computer games of all time.

How to Play Minesweeper

Clear all safe squares without clicking on any mines using logical deduction.

  1. Left-click to reveal a square (your first click is always safe)
  2. Right-click (or long-press on mobile) to flag suspected mines
  3. Numbers show how many mines are adjacent to that square
  4. Use number clues to deduce where mines are located
  5. Flag all mines and reveal all safe squares to win
  6. Click on a mine and the game ends

Game Rules

  • Each number indicates mines in the 8 adjacent squares (horizontally, vertically, diagonally)
  • Empty squares (no number) have no adjacent mines
  • Flags mark suspected mine locations and prevent accidental clicks
  • First click never hits a mine - mines are placed after the first move
  • Mine counter decreases when you place flags
  • Timer starts with your first click

Difficulty Levels

  • Beginner (9×9): 10 mines - Perfect for learning the basics
  • Intermediate (16×16): 40 mines - Requires strategic thinking
  • Expert (30×16): 99 mines - Demands advanced pattern recognition

Strategies & Techniques

Basic Techniques:

  • Number Patterns: Learn common patterns (1-2-1, 1-2-2-1, etc.)
  • Corner Logic: Use edges and corners where mines have fewer possible locations
  • Counting: Count revealed mines vs. the number clue to deduce safe squares
  • Flag Discipline: Only flag when you're certain - don't guess

Advanced Techniques:

  • Chord Clicking: Click both mouse buttons on a satisfied number to reveal adjacent squares
  • Pattern Recognition: Recognize complex multi-cell patterns
  • Probability Analysis: When forced to guess, choose squares with lowest mine probability
  • Edge Work: Clear edges first to create more constrained situations

Common Number Patterns

  • 1-1 Pattern: Safe square between two 1s when both have one adjacent mine
  • 1-2-1 Pattern: Middle square is often safe when outer mines are identified
  • Edge 1s: Mines are often in corners when 1s appear along edges
  • 3s in corners: Usually indicate mines in all three adjacent corner squares

Benefits of Playing Minesweeper

  • Logical Deduction: Develops systematic reasoning and analytical thinking
  • Pattern Recognition: Improves ability to spot visual patterns and relationships
  • Risk Assessment: Teaches probability evaluation and calculated decision-making
  • Spatial Awareness: Enhances understanding of grid relationships and adjacency
  • Patience & Focus: Builds concentration and methodical problem-solving skills
  • Memory Training: Exercises working memory for tracking mine locations

Frequently Asked Questions

What do the numbers mean in Minesweeper?

Each number shows how many mines are hidden in the 8 squares surrounding that number (including diagonally adjacent squares). Use these clues to logically deduce where mines are located.

Do I need to guess in Minesweeper?

Most Minesweeper puzzles can be solved through pure logic, but occasionally you may encounter situations where an educated guess is necessary. Good strategy minimizes guessing situations.

What's a good Minesweeper time?

Beginner: Under 30 seconds is excellent. Intermediate: Under 2 minutes is very good. Expert: Under 4 minutes is considered skilled. World records are around 1 second for Beginner and 30+ seconds for Expert.

How do I flag mines on mobile?

On mobile devices, use a long press (tap and hold) to flag a square as a mine. A short tap reveals the square. The flag helps you mark suspected mines and prevents accidental clicks.

What's the history of Minesweeper?

Minesweeper originated in the 1960s but became famous when Microsoft included it with Windows 3.1 in 1992. It was originally designed to help users practice precise mouse clicking and dragging skills.