Each player is assigned a position based on wind directions – east, south, north and west. How to set up the gameįirst each player rolls the dice, with the player that rolls the highest number becoming the dealer.

Throughout play, each player takes it in turns picking up and discarding tiles in order to create sets and pairs. There are wind and dragon tiles, too – and many sets also include eight bonus tiles featuring four flowers and four seasons. Each suit contains four sets of tiles numbered one to nine. When you know you have a winning hand, you can shout ‘mahjong!’ What does a Mahjong set include?Ī complete mahjong set of 144 tiles includes three suits, called circles, characters, and bamboos. A set is three or four identical tiles or three consecutive tiles (also known as ‘melds’), and a pair is two of the same tiles (often called ‘eyes’). To win mahjong a player must form four sets and one pair.

The goal of mahjong is similar to poker, in that the aim is to make matching sets and pairs. It’s important to note, however, that there are variations in how the game is played from country to country. The game of mahjong requires four players, 144 tiles and two dice to roll. How to play Mahjong Guide The basic rules of Mahjong Mahjong is a social game that requires precision, skill, strategy and luck.

Modern-day tiles are based on Chinese characters and symbols. If you’ve heard those clacking mahjong tiles being put to work but have been left confused as to how to join the game, then this basic guide to the rules of mahjong play is for you.ĭid you know, Mahjong is a centuries-old game that has long been a favourite pastime for Chinese families and friends? The game is said to have a history in Chinese culture stretching back more than 2500 years, evolving from a simple game using silk-printed cards. This simple guide will help you learn how to play this ancient game like a champion.

Simple mahjong scoring