Different Variations of Mahjong
Many Asian people might have played mahjong once or twice in their life and their version of mahjong may have been different from others because of its origin and the place where it was played. Mahjong has different sets of rules in place because they made it fit into the lifestyle of people living in a specific area. This article will discuss the different variations of mahjong and how it differs from other places.
The oldest variation of mahjong is the Chinese classical version and it was the version that the Americans first played when it was introduced in the 1920s. This variation still exists and it has a small following in the western part of the world. Another variation is Hong Kong Mahjong which only differs a bit in scoring. It may be the most common form of mahjong of all.
Korean Mahjong is different from the first two variation of mahjong that was mentioned because of its uniqueness in scoring and the way it is played. If you lack four players to play traditional mahjong, then give Korean mahjong a try. It only needs three players. The scoring for this type of variation is very simple and a game can finish faster compared to other variations. One suit is removed from the game which makes it possible for three players to play the game. This game does not allow melded chows and it is common to see a concealed hand.
Sichuan Mahjong is popular in Southern China and can be played quickly. Suited tiles are the only ones use to play this game. Another version exists in Taiwan mahjong and the people who play it use sixteen tiles in their hand instead of the usual thirteen that is present in other versions. It has bonuses for the dealer which can up his points if he wins.
And finally, there’s American mahjong or sometimes referred to as mahjongg with a double g. In American mahjong, you play with a Charleston where you swap tiles with other players. Also, there’s jokers involved in the hand. That is why in an American mahjong set, it comes with more tiles.
Many people like to play mahjong because it is fun and it can be a stress release especially when it is a casual game played among friends. People play different variations because of their country of origin or perhaps it is just due to simple preference. They play it to enjoy themselves and maybe if there is money involved they might be able to have an extra buck or two.
Filed Under: mahjong variations • mahjong versions • mahjongg
