Linux · Games
Gnome Mines
GNOME Mines is a simple Minesweeper clone for the GNOME desktop.
- License
- GPL-3.0
- Latest version
- 50.0
What is Gnome Mines?
GNOME Mines is a lightweight implementation of the classic Minesweeper puzzle, bundled with many Linux distributions. It has been maintained for years as part of the GNOME Games collection, so it works well on modern GNOME releases and older desktops alike.
The game presents a grid of hidden cells, some of which contain mines. Players reveal cells, avoid detonating mines, and use numbers to deduce safe squares. Its interface follows GNOME’s Human Interface Guidelines, offering a clean look without unnecessary bells and whistles.
For users accustomed to Windows’ Minesweeper, GNOME Mines feels familiar but more restrained: no ads, no forced tutorials, and keyboard shortcuts that match other GNOME apps. It’s suitable for casual play, quick breaks, or teaching basic logic to beginners.
Best for: Anyone who wants a no‑frills, reliable Minesweeper clone on a GNOME desktop.
Key features of Gnome Mines
- Classic rectangular grid with adjustable size
- Customizable number of mines
- Flagging and question-mark modes
- Keyboard shortcuts for reveal, flag, and new game
- Score tracking and best‑time display
- Integration with GNOME Shell notifications
- Simple, distraction‑free UI
Pros
- Free and open source
- Runs on all major Linux distros
- Lightweight, low CPU and memory usage
- Consistent GNOME look and feel
Cons
- Limited visual themes
- No advanced difficulty presets beyond size and mine count
- No multiplayer or online leaderboards
Windows programs Gnome Mines replaces
How to install Gnome Mines on Linux
sudo apt install gnome-minessudo apt install gnome-minessudo dnf install gnome-minessudo pacman -S gnome-minessudo zypper install gnome-minesTips for Windows users
The game uses the same basic controls as Windows Minesweeper: left‑click to reveal, right‑click to flag, and double‑click on a number to reveal adjacent cells. Keyboard shortcuts (Space to reveal, F to flag) work everywhere, and the game stores high scores locally, so there’s no file conversion needed. Just install the package for your distro and launch it from the applications menu.
Gnome Mines: frequently asked questions
How do I change the grid size in GNOME Mines?
Open the game, click the gear icon or go to the menu and select "Preferences" to set rows, columns, and mine count.
Can I use mouse gestures instead of right‑click to flag?
GNOME Mines follows standard GNOME input settings, so you can enable left‑handed mouse or use the keyboard shortcut F to flag.
Does GNOME Mines save my high scores?
Yes, scores are saved in your user configuration directory and persist across sessions.
Is there a way to play without numbers (pure guessing mode)?
No, the game always shows numbers for revealed cells; you can set a very high mine count to make it harder.
Updated