Minesweeper

Did you know Minesweeper is mathematically equivalent to some of the hardest problems in computer science? In 2000, mathematician Richard Kaye proved the game is 'NP-complete', meaning its logic scales to incredible complexity. The game requires you to uncover squares on a grid while avoiding hidden mines, using numbers that indicate how many mines touch each cell. You must rely entirely on logic and pattern recognition. Start a game now and test your deduction skills on our classic browser version.

1. Click any cell to begin. The first click always reveals a safe area.
2. Read the numbers on the revealed cells. A '1' means exactly one mine touches that cell.
3. Deduce which adjacent cells hold mines based on overlapping number clues.
4. Right-click (or long-press on mobile) to place a flag on suspected mines.
5. Click all remaining safe cells to win. If you click a mine, the game ends immediately.

• A number indicates the exact count of mines touching that cell horizontally, vertically, or diagonally.
• The first click guarantees a safe cell.
• You must flag suspected mines to keep track of them.
• You win only when you uncover every single non-mine cell.
• Clicking a mine ends the round instantly.
• Clicking a zero-mine cell automatically clears all adjacent safe cells.

• Start by clicking near the center. You maximize your chances of opening a large blank area.
• Flag obvious mines first. If a '1' touches only one unrevealed cell, that cell is a mine.
• Clear satisfied numbers. If a '1' already touches a flagged mine, you can safely click all other cells touching that '1'.
• Memorize the 1-2-1 pattern. When you see 1-2-1 along a flat wall, the mines always sit next to the 1s.
• Memorize the 1-2-2-1 pattern. The mines always sit next to the 2s.
• Only guess when logic fails completely. Pick the cell with the lowest mathematical probability of holding a mine.

• Beginner (9x9, 10 mines): Small grid designed for learning core logic patterns.
• Intermediate (16x16, 40 mines): Standard board size offering balanced difficulty.
• Expert (30x16, 99 mines): Large grid requiring advanced pattern recognition and chording.
• Custom (30x20, 145 mines): Extra-large grid with maximum mine density for the ultimate challenge.

• The game provides absolute, logic-driven certainty.
• Clearing a massive blank area in one click feels highly rewarding.
• Matches progress quickly, taking seconds or minutes to complete.
• Speedrunning creates a competitive ceiling for advanced players.

Play Minesweeper free directly in your browser. Select Beginner, Intermediate, Expert, or Custom mode. Our version includes chording support, right-click flagging, and a guaranteed safe first click. No downloads required.

Minesweeper rewards patience and logical deduction. Whether you want to beat your fastest time or simply clear the beginner board, every game challenges your brain. Pick your difficulty and start playing.

• Minesweeper is NP-Complete - Richard Kaye
• Official Minesweeper Speedrunning Community