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How to Play Mahjong in 20 Minutes: A Quick Guide for Beginners

Keith Cox

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Mahjong is a classic Chinese tile game that has been enjoyed for centuries. It's a challenging and rewarding game that can be enjoyed by people of all ages. If you're new to Mahjong, don't worry! This guide will teach you everything you need to know to get started.

Mahjong: How to play 3 player mahjong in 20 minutes

by Joan Lee

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
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The Tiles

Mahjong is played with a set of 144 tiles. The tiles are divided into three suits:

* Bamboos (1-9) * Characters (1-9) * Dots (1-9)

There are also four special tiles:

* East Wind* South Wind* West Wind* North Wind

Each player starts the game with 13 tiles. The remaining tiles are placed in a pile in the center of the table.

Dealing

To deal, one player takes the top 17 tiles from the pile and arranges them in a row. The rest of the tiles are then divided evenly among the players.

The Goal

The goal of Mahjong is to be the first player to complete a winning hand. A winning hand consists of four sets and a pair.

* Sets can be either a pung (three of a kind) or a chow (three consecutive tiles of the same suit). * A pair is two of the same tile.

Gameplay

Play begins with the player to the left of the dealer. On your turn, you can do one of three things:

* Draw a tile from the pile. * Discard a tile on the table. * Declare a winning hand.

If you draw a tile that you can use to complete a set or pair, you must do so. If you can't use the tile, you must discard it on the table.

If you have a complete winning hand, you can declare it by calling out "Mahjong!" The other players will then check your hand to make sure it is valid. If it is, you win the game!

Winning

There are many different ways to win at Mahjong. The most common way is to complete a hand with four sets and a pair. However, you can also win by:

* Going out with a pair* Going out with a "big four" (four sets and a pair of East Winds) * Going out with a "little four" (four sets and a pair of Kings)

Tips for Beginners

* Start by learning the basic suits and tiles.* Pay attention to the tiles that other players are discarding. This will give you clues about what tiles they are trying to complete. * Don't be afraid to ask for help. There are many resources available online and in books that can help you learn how to play.

Mahjong is a fun and challenging game that can be enjoyed by people of all ages. If you're new to the game, don't be intimidated! With a little practice, you'll be able to master the basics and start winning games in no time.

Mahjong: How to play 3 player mahjong in 20 minutes

by Joan Lee

5 out of 5