When to guess
Sometimes the numbers in Mines can’t decide between two squares. Learn to finish every certain move first, then guess as wisely as you can. Patterns and guessing · lesson 3 of 3.
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The lesson in words
Most of this field is solved, and the flags are correct. Two spots are left: the top-left corner and the bottom right.
Before you guess anything, make every move that logic gives you.
Try it: Tap the square in the bottom right that’s certain to be safe.
Finish the logic, then guess, and use the mine counter near the end. You’re ready for a real field.
Questions
Can the numbers tell you which one is the mine?
No. Every number that sees one also sees the other. Mines are placed at random, so now and then you have to guess.
When should you make a guess like that?
Last. If you guess early and lose, the safe squares you hadn’t opened yet are wasted. When you do guess earlier in a game, pick a square that would open up the most if it’s safe, often one away from the tangle.
The counter says 1 mine is left. One way the last squares could work needs 1 mine, another needs 2. Which is right?
Only the pattern with 1 mine fits the counter. Near the end, counting mines can solve a spot the numbers alone can’t.