How to Play Subway Surfers

Master the art of dodging, jumping, and collecting coins with our comprehensive guide

Basic Controls

Mobile Controls

Subway Surfers was originally designed for mobile devices, with intuitive touchscreen controls:

  • Swipe Up Jump over obstacles
  • Swipe Down Roll under obstacles
  • Swipe Left Move to the left lane
  • Swipe Right Move to the right lane
  • Double Swipe Up Activate Hoverboard (if available)

PC Keyboard Controls

When playing in a browser on PC, you can use the keyboard for control:

  • Up Arrow / W Jump over obstacles
  • Down Arrow / S Roll under obstacles
  • Left Arrow / A Move to the left lane
  • Right Arrow / D Move to the right lane
  • Space Activate Hoverboard (if available)

Power-ups & Special Items

Jetpack

Jetpack Power-up

The Jetpack launches your character high above the tracks for a limited time. While airborne:

  • You automatically collect coins in your path
  • You're safe from all obstacles
  • Tap/click to fly higher during the power-up duration
  • Try to collect as many coins as possible before landing

Super Sneakers

Super Sneakers Power-up

Super Sneakers give your character the ability to jump much higher than normal:

  • Perfect for reaching coins at high elevations
  • Can jump over tall obstacles with a single swipe up
  • Lasts for a limited time (watch the timer icon)
  • Can be combined with other power-ups for maximum effect

Coin Magnet

Coin Magnet Power-up

The Coin Magnet attracts nearby coins to your character:

  • Coins from all three lanes will be drawn to you
  • Perfect for collecting coins without changing lanes
  • Automatically collects coins without touching them
  • Great for sections with coins spread across all lanes

Hoverboard

Hoverboard Item

Hoverboards are special items that provide crash protection:

  • Activate with a double swipe up or the Space key
  • Protects from one crash, then breaks
  • Different city editions have unique hoverboard designs
  • Save them for difficult sections or when carrying many coins

Game Objectives & Progression

Core Objectives

In Subway Surfers, your primary goals are:

  • Run as far as possible to achieve high scores
  • Collect coins to unlock characters, outfits, and hoverboards
  • Gather keys to continue running after crashes
  • Complete missions to increase your score multiplier

Mission System

The game features a mission system with daily challenges:

  • Complete sets of three missions to increase your score multiplier
  • Missions range from simple tasks like collecting coins to more complex challenges
  • Higher multipliers mean more points for every action you take
  • New missions appear after completing the current set

Characters & Upgrades

You can unlock and upgrade various elements:

  • Characters: Each with unique abilities and looks
  • Outfits: Alternative looks for each character
  • Hoverboards: Different designs with unique special powers
  • Power-up Upgrades: Extend duration or enhance effects

Advanced Tips & Strategies

Movement Mastery

  • Lane Awareness: Stay in the middle lane when possible for maximum maneuverability
  • Anticipate Obstacles: Look ahead and plan your moves in advance
  • Rolling: Roll frequently to maintain momentum, especially under barriers
  • Jump Timing: Perfect your jump timing to clear obstacles efficiently

Resource Management

  • Save Keys: Accumulate keys for continued play after crashes
  • Strategic Hoverboard Use: Save hoverboards for difficult sections
  • Mission Focus: Prioritize completing daily missions for multiplier boosts
  • Power-up Timing: Use power-ups strategically in coin-rich areas

High Score Techniques

  • Multiplier Building: Complete missions to increase your score multiplier before long runs
  • Jet Hovering: When using a Jetpack, hover at the optimal height for maximum coin collection
  • Character Selection: Choose characters with abilities that complement your playstyle
  • Pattern Recognition: Learn to recognize obstacle patterns that repeat

Special Environments

  • Train Tops: Jump on top of trains for bonus coins and easier navigation
  • Subway Sections: Be prepared for sudden turns and lane changes
  • Workshop Areas: Look for hidden paths with bonus items
  • City-Specific Features: Each world tour location has unique elements to master