This cheat sheet provides an overview of the traditional Chinese Mahjong game, including rules, tile types, gameplay strategies, and scoring. It is designed to help both new and experienced players quickly understand the essential elements of the game.
Basic Rules
Objective
- Be the first player to complete a winning hand by drawing and discarding tiles to form specific sets.
Setup
- Mahjong is typically played with four players.
- Each player starts with 13 tiles.
- The remaining tiles form the wall from which players draw tiles.
Gameplay
- Players take turns drawing a tile from the wall or the discard pile and then discarding one tile.
- The goal is to form four sets (Pong, Chow, or Kong) and one pair to declare "Mahjong."
Winning a Round
- A player declares "Mahjong" when they have a complete hand of four sets and one pair.
Tile Types
Suited Tiles
- Bamboo (Bams): Tiles numbered 1 to 9.
- Characters (Craks): Tiles numbered 1 to 9.
- Circles (Dots): Tiles numbered 1 to 9.
Honor Tiles
- Wind Tiles: East, South, West, North.
- Dragon Tiles: Red, Green, White.
Bonus Tiles (Optional)
- Flowers and Seasons: Four flower tiles and four season tiles, used for bonus points.
Sets
Pong
- Three identical tiles (e.g., three 5-Bamboo tiles).
Chow
- A sequence of three consecutive tiles in the same suit (e.g., 4, 5, 6 of Characters).
Kong
- Four identical tiles (can be declared with an additional tile drawn).
Pair
- Two identical tiles (needed to complete the hand).
Scoring
Basic Points
- Points are awarded for completing the hand and for specific sets and combinations.
- Pong, Chow, and Kong have different point values based on their composition.
Bonus Points
- Bonus points can be awarded for special hands, specific tile combinations, and bonus tiles (Flowers and Seasons).
Common Scoring Elements
- Self-draw: Winning by drawing the winning tile yourself.
- Dragon Pongs: Completing a set of Dragon tiles.
- Wind Pongs: Completing a set of Wind tiles matching the prevailing wind or your seat wind.
Strategy
General Tips
- Aim to complete simple sets early in the game to reduce the number of tiles in your hand.
- Pay attention to the tiles discarded by other players to anticipate their hands.
- Use concealed Kongs (keeping them hidden) to surprise opponents.
Defensive Play
- Avoid discarding tiles that can complete opponents' sets, especially towards the end of the game.
- Break up your potential Chows if they contain tiles frequently discarded by others.
Offensive Play
- Declare Kongs when possible to gain extra tiles and increase your chances of completing a hand.
- Focus on a specific suit or type of set to streamline your strategy.
Tips and Sources
Useful Tips
- Practice recognizing tile patterns and sets quickly to enhance your gameplay.
- Stay adaptable with your strategy based on the tiles you draw and the discards from other players.
- Familiarize yourself with the scoring rules specific to the version of Mahjong you are playing.