Mahjong is a captivating game that originated in China during the mid-1800s. Over the years, it has undergone several adaptations, leading to the American mahjong version we enjoy today. Key table rules have evolved significantly, including the introduction of cards in the 1920s, the addition of jokers in the 1960s, and the modern tiles introduced in 2020.
In this post, I will advocate for three essential table rules that should be included in every American mahjong game: no dice, East deals, and alternative cards.
The Case for No Dice
According to the National Mah Jongg League (NMJL), players roll dice to determine who will be East in the game. East is dealt one extra tile compared to the other players, giving them an advantage during the Charleston. The dice also serve to randomize the tiles, helping to prevent cheating.
At my friendly table, I choose not to use dice. If I am the host, I automatically become East. After all, I brought the set, I am hosting the game, and I start with the advantage. The East advantage rotates among players in the direction of play. This way, everyone gets at least one chance to be East.
To break the wall, NMJL rules require East to roll the dice and count that number from the first wall. This randomizes the tiles similarly to cutting a deck of cards. But how can we achieve this without rolling dice? East can ask another player to pick a number between 1 and 10. This number will then be used to break the wall, much like asking someone to cut a deck of cards. The goal remains the same: to prevent cheating.
Although I don’t use dice, I always keep them on hand. They can be useful in neutral games, competitive tournaments, or to settle any toss-up situations outside of gameplay, like deciding who opens the bottle of wine.
East as the Dealer
In American mahjong, the NMJL states that there is no designated dealer. However, at Missy Mahjong, we assign East as the dealer.
The rationale behind each player selecting their own tiles is to ensure that players do not touch each other’s tiles. While I’m not entirely sure if this NMJL rule is meant for good luck, to prevent cheating, or simply to keep everyone focused on the deal, it seems unnecessary at the Missy Mahjong table.
At our table, the tiles are shuffled collectively. During the Charleston, players will inevitably touch each other's tiles. Calling for a tile requires interaction with opponents’ tiles.
East should be the only player who touches the tiles during the deal at a Missy Mahjong table. East deals in the direction of play, allowing each player a chance to deal. This approach also keeps the game flowing smoothly.
The Benefits of Alternative Cards
The NMJL is an established institution. While it may be outdated, it remains important. The cards they issue each year often contain printing errors but are still widely accepted. At the Missy Mahjong table, we will continue to use NMJL cards, but we also welcome alternative cards.
In online gameplay, we always use the NMJL card. However, by summer, I often find myself bored with it due to frequent play on my phone. Alternative cards provide more ways to win than the NMJL card. For instance, KKKK means any kong is needed to complete the sequence. This could be a kong of flowers, a kong of 5 craks, or even a kong of South winds. Such options create endless winning possibilities and lead to fewer wall games.
Alternative cards are often themed and not time-sensitive. For example, the Nashville card from Queen of the Tiles offers a Music City mahjong experience. During Christmas, this company also provides holiday-themed cards. Each December, players can unpack these themed cards alongside their ornaments and repack them in January. This approach keeps mahjong fresh and relevant.
Beginner players can start with easier cards as they learn the game. As players improve in speed and skill, we can introduce more challenging alternative cards. This variety keeps the game exciting and engaging.
Missy Mahjong Social Club Table Rules
At any Missy Mahjong social club table, players collectively decide how to play. For instance, the table must agree on whether to use traditional or modern tiles, how to establish East, the deal, extra jokers, the cards to play with, and consequences for slow players.
Next time you sit at the table, consider which table rules you want to implement. Choosing to play with traditional tiles and strictly adhering to NMJL rules is also a valid option.
By embracing these table rules, we can enhance the experience of American mahjong and foster a more enjoyable atmosphere at the table. Whether you are a seasoned player or a newcomer, these guidelines can help create a fun and engaging game for everyone involved.
