Playing the classic Mines game on Ubuntu is straightforward and primarily involves using your mouse. The objective is to uncover all the squares that do not contain mines, while correctly marking the squares that do contain them.
Getting Started
First, you need to open the Mines game. It's often included by default or available through the Ubuntu Software Center. Once the game board appears, you're ready to start clicking.
Basic Gameplay Explained
The game board is made up of covered squares. When you uncover a square that does not contain a mine, it will either:
- Reveal a number: This number indicates how many mines are located in the adjacent squares (horizontally, vertically, and diagonally).
- Be blank: If a square is blank, it means none of its adjacent squares contain mines, and the game will automatically uncover neighboring blank squares as well.
Uncovering a square that does contain a mine ends the game.
Mines Controls on Ubuntu
As the reference states, this game is played with the mouse. Here's a breakdown of the essential mouse actions:
| Mouse Action | Square State | Effect | Purpose |
|---|---|---|---|
| Left-click | Covered | Uncovers the square. | Reveal content (number, blank, mine) |
| Right-click | Covered | Places a flag icon on the square. | Mark suspected mine location |
| Left-click | Marked (Flagged) | Will not uncover it, for safety. | Prevent accidental mine detonation |
| Left + Right-click | Uncovered (Number) | If correct number of flags around, uncovers surrounding covered squares. | Speed up clearing areas |
Note: The "Left + Right-click" action might vary slightly depending on the specific version of the Mines game installed on your Ubuntu system, but it's a common feature for experienced players.
Tips for Playing
- Start Smart: Often, starting in a corner or along an edge is beneficial as these squares have fewer neighbors, reducing complexity initially.
- Use Numbers: The numbers are your primary clues. A '1' means only one adjacent square has a mine. If you've already flagged one adjacent square, you know the others nearby are safe to click.
- Flag Suspects: Use the right-click to flag squares you are highly confident contain mines. This helps you keep track and prevents accidental clicks.
- Clear Known Safe Areas: Once a square shows a number, and you've flagged the required number of mines around it, you can often quickly clear the remaining adjacent covered squares using the Left + Right-click combination on the numbered square.
By understanding these simple mouse controls and using the numbers as your guide, you can enjoy playing Mines on your Ubuntu system.
