Intermediate Minesweeper
Intermediate is the classic 16×16 board with 40 mines. The density rises to one square in six, the first click opens less, and patterns start to matter: the 1-1 and 1-2 shapes along an edge decide most of the board. It is long enough to need a plan and short enough to replay straight away.
Board
16 columns × 16 rows, 256 squares, 40 mines (16% density).
Tips for intermediate
- Work the edges of the open area one number at a time — the board rarely opens on its own now.
- Learn the 1-1 and 1-2 patterns: they settle most of the squares an intermediate board leaves you.
- Flag only what you need: a flag is a note to yourself, and the clock does not stop while you place it.
- If you must guess, guess early: a wrong guess at the start costs seconds, not the whole board.
FAQ
What size is intermediate minesweeper?
Intermediate is a 16×16 board — 256 squares — with 40 mines, about one square in six. It is the classic Windows Intermediate setting.
How is intermediate different from beginner?
The board is three times bigger and denser, so the first click opens less and you have to read patterns along the edge of the open area instead of waiting for big openings.
Which patterns matter most on intermediate?
The 1-1 and 1-2 patterns along a straight edge. They tell you which square is safe or which is a mine without any counting, and they come up on almost every intermediate board.
What is a good intermediate time?
A first clear in a few minutes is normal; under a minute is quick. Records are under ten seconds.
Other levels
- Beginner minesweeper — 9 columns × 9 rows, 81 squares, 10 mines (12% density).
- Expert minesweeper — 30 rows × 16 columns (the classic 30×16, upright), 480 squares, 99 mines (21% density).
- Custom minesweeper — Width and height 6–32 squares, mines 10–75% of the board.
New to the game? Read how to play minesweeper, then try the daily minesweeper — one board for everyone, every day — or race someone on the same board in 1v1 multiplayer.