The primary goal in mahjong is to assemble a winning hand by collecting, exchanging, and discarding tiles to form specific sets, known as melds. A legal winning hand, called "mahjong," must meet particular criteria, typically consisting of a combination of four melds and a pair. The winner of each hand scores points based on the value of their winning hand. A complete game comprises a set number of rounds, and the overall victor is the player who accumulates the most points throughout the match.

To play mahjong, you'll need a set of mahjong tiles, which typically includes 144 tiles. These sets are readily available online to suit various budgets. If the set doesn't include dice, you'll also need two or three six-sided dice, along with a pen and paper for keeping score. A square table is ideal for gameplay, providing ample space for all tiles while keeping them within easy reach. Gather four players, and you're ready to begin.

The majority of mahjong tiles are known as simples, divided into three suits: dots, bamboos, and characters. Each suit contains four identical sets numbered one to nine, totaling 108 tiles. Dots feature circular markings, bamboos depict images of bamboo, and characters display Chinese numerical characters. Many modern sets also include Arabic numerals on the tiles to facilitate easier gameplay.

Honor tiles consist of two types: winds and dragons. Wind tiles are labeled east, south, west, and north, while dragon tiles come in red, green, and white varieties. There are four identical copies of each honor tile, making 28 in total. Bonus tiles include flowers and seasons, each with four unique tiles, adding up to eight. These tiles provide extra points but are not used to form melds.

To set up the game, all tiles are placed face down on the table and mixed thoroughly. Players then build the "walls" by creating four stacks that are 18 tiles long and two tiles high, forming a square shape resembling the Great Wall of China. This setup ensures all tiles are accounted for and creates a central space for discarded tiles. A roll of the dice determines the dealer, who then distributes 13 tiles to each player (dealing in blocks of four tiles at a time, with the dealer receiving an extra tile). With tiles arranged, the game is ready to commence.

The player to the right of the dealer initiates the game, with play proceeding in a counterclockwise direction. During each turn, players draw a tile and discard one, maintaining a hand of 13 tiles. The objective is to form melds—specific combinations of tiles. Discarded tiles are placed in the center of the table and can be claimed by other players to complete a meld. Bonus tiles are set aside upon drawing and replaced with a new tile from the wall, as they cannot form melds but contribute extra points.

To declare mahjong and win a hand, a player must form a complete hand consisting of four melds and one pair (eyes), totaling 14 tiles. This can be achieved by drawing a tile from the wall or by claiming a discarded tile to complete the hand. Some variations require a minimum score for a winning hand. Once mahjong is declared, the hand ends, and the next player becomes the dealer. If no one declares mahjong before the tiles run out, the hand is considered a draw, and the dealer deals again.

A mahjong match typically consists of multiple rounds, with each player serving as the dealer in turn. A full match traditionally includes four rounds, one for each wind direction or season. The player with the highest total score at the end of all rounds is declared the winner. Scoring can vary by regional rules, but generally, points are awarded based on the complexity of the winning hand, bonus tiles, and whether the player was the dealer. Scores are recorded using pen and paper, chips, or sometimes monetary wagers.

Mahjong has evolved into numerous variations across different cultures and regions. Some versions, like those played in South Africa, Vietnam, and Japan, introduce unique rules and gameplay mechanics. Certain variants require only three players or utilize hands with 16 tiles instead of the traditional 13. In American mahjong, players use racks to hold their tiles and participate in a tile-swapping phase called the Charleston at the game's outset. Additionally, American mahjong features melds of five or more tiles, and the list of legal winning hands is updated annually, adding a dynamic aspect to the game.

In mahjong, the wall serves as more than just a supply of tiles; it's a vital source of information. Observant players pay attention to which tiles have been drawn and which remain, helping them make strategic decisions about which tiles to keep or discard. Mastering the art of reading the wall can significantly enhance gameplay and increase the chances of winning.

While aiming for a high-scoring "Big Hand" can lead to a substantial victory, it comes with risks. Pursuing complex tile combinations requires time and can leave a player vulnerable if others achieve mahjong more quickly. Balancing ambition with adaptability is key; experienced players know when to adjust their strategy to secure a win, even if it means settling for a smaller hand.

Dragon tiles hold special strategic value in mahjong. Skillful use of these tiles can yield bonus points and influence the game's outcome. Deciding when to play or hold onto dragon tiles requires careful consideration of both your hand and your opponents' potential needs. In the hands of a strategic player, dragon tiles can become powerful tools for achieving victory.

Keeping your tiles organized is crucial for effective gameplay. Arranging tiles by suit and sequence helps you quickly identify potential melds and make swift decisions during your turn. A well-organized hand reduces confusion and allows you to focus on strategy rather than sorting through cluttered tiles. Developing a consistent organizational method enhances your efficiency and overall enjoyment of the game.

The mid-game is a pivotal phase in mahjong where strategies solidify, and competition intensifies. During this stage, adaptability is essential. Observing opponents' discards and possible melds can provide insight into their hands, allowing you to adjust your tactics accordingly. Balancing offensive moves to build your hand with defensive plays to hinder opponents requires careful judgment. Mastery of mid-game strategies can significantly increase your chances of declaring mahjong before your rivals.

Mahjong isn't just about the tiles you hold; it's equally about playing the players. Mastering Mahjong requires you to delve into the psychological warfare of the game. By reading your opponents' discards and hesitations, you can anticipate their next moves and adjust your strategy accordingly. It's a dance of the mind, where each player's actions and reactions can give you a window into their strategy—turning the game into a mental chess match where foresight and cunning are your best allies.

The Charleston, a unique ritual in American Mahjong, offers more than just an exchange of tiles. It's a critical moment for strategic decision-making, where players can subtly influence the direction of their game. By carefully choosing which tiles to pass and observing others' discards, you can glean insights into their potential strategies while shaping your own hand. This phase requires a blend of intuition and strategy, making it a pivotal moment in setting the stage for victory.

In the intricate dance of Mahjong, the Joker tiles hold a special place. Joker baiting—a strategy as cunning as it sounds—involves deliberately discarding tiles that may tempt opponents into making a move, thereby revealing their hand or strategy. This technique not only requires a deep understanding of the game's mechanics but also a keen sense of timing. Employed judiciously, it can transform a precarious position into a winning advantage.

The opening moves in a game of Mahjong set the tone for the battle ahead. Developing a strong early-game strategy involves balancing the desire for a quick win with the need for flexibility. By building a hand that can pivot between multiple potential winning combinations, you position yourself to capitalize on the tiles drawn and discarded as the game unfolds. This adaptive approach can be the difference between a stalemate and a stunning victory.

Effective defensive play in mahjong extends beyond focusing on your own hand; it involves anticipating and disrupting your opponents' strategies. By paying attention to the tiles others discard and avoiding throwing tiles they may need, you can prevent them from completing their hands. Additionally, holding onto certain tiles can block opponents from forming specific melds. Mastering defensive tactics transforms your gameplay, making it more challenging for others to achieve mahjong and increasing your chances of winning.