Game guide · XDSTMALL
Rules, controls and help for Minesweeper
Take a moment with Minesweeper before moving to another game. 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.
Practice with a purpose
Choose one rule to keep in mind for this round. Apply it consistently rather than guessing what another version might allow. Notice the feedback after each input.
The goal to keep 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. The feedback beside the game helps you follow the round. Check the rules when you are unsure.
The order of 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.
Your inputs
Click/tap to open. Right-click to flag, or use the Flag mode toggle for touch devices. Keep the playing area visible while using these controls. A new-round button replaces the current round.
Try this example
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. Notice the change in the playing area.
An important reminder
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. 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.
Questions that come up during play
Before I begin, 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.
While reading the Guide, what example helps explain Minesweeper?
For clarity: A revealed 1 with only one covered neighbour means that neighbour contains a mine.
When I return, 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.
What format does Minesweeper offer?
Play using the solo mode shown on this page. Read the controls before starting a new round.
For my first round, 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.
On this playing page, where should I start with Minesweeper?
Open a covered square to reveal it.
For my first round, do I need an account or a payment for Minesweeper?
No player account or payment is needed. Game scores are recreational results, not cash prizes.
For a quick reminder, 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.
For a quick reminder, how do I report an issue with Minesweeper?
The key detail is this: 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.
