Monetizing a Classic: The Evolution of Minesweeper

Minesweeper, a staple of the Windows operating system, was initially offered as a free add-on to teach users how to navigate with a mouse and differentiate Windows from competitors. However, by 2011, the game had become an afterthought, contributing little to Microsoft's revenue. The Windows 8 version marked a significant shift, introducing ads and a paid ad-free option. Players can now opt for a $9.99 annual or $1.50 monthly subscription to remove ads. The game's design director, Kevin Lambert, maintains that monetization was not the primary concern, but rather a balance between user experience and revenue opportunity. The new version features Daily Challenges, which offer micro-sized doses of Minesweeper with twists on the classic formula. Completing these challenges rewards players with virtual coins, which can be redeemed for in-game trophies. While the implementation may feel exploitative, Lambert argues that it drives daily engagement and encourages players to return to the game. The addition of explicitly addictive design patterns to a game with a history of captivating players raises interesting questions about the evolution of game design and the pursuit of revenue.