Mahjong along with game tài xỉu is a classic and popular game in many Asian countries, especially China, Japan and Vietnam.. With its deep strategy and fascinating rules, Mahjong attracts many players from all over the world. If you are a beginner and want to learn how to play Mahjong, this article will help you get acquainted with the basic concepts, rules of the game, as well as some effective tips.
Introduction to Mahjong
Mahjong is a tile-based game that uses a special set of tiles, usually consisting of 136 to 144 tiles. Each tile has a unique value and image, including numbered tiles, animal images, characters, and special symbols.
The goal of the game is to form valid sets of tiles and achieve the highest score before your opponents. Mahjong can be played by 2 to 4 players, and in each round, each player needs to form valid sets of tiles according to the predetermined rules.
Types of Tiles in Mahjong
Before starting to play Mahjong, you need to understand the basic tiles in the Mahjong set. A Mahjong set typically includes the following tiles:
- Numbered (Suit) Tiles: These include tiles numbered 1 to 9, grouped into three suits: Bamboo, Characters, Circles. Each suit consists of 9 tiles from 1 to 9.
- Honor Tiles: These consist of Wind Tiles (East, South, West, North) and Dragon Tiles (Red Dragon, Green Dragon, White Dragon).
- Bonus Tiles: These include special tiles such as Flowers and Seasons, which are used to add points to the total score.
How to Play Mahjong: Basic Rules
Setting Up the Game
Before playing Mahjong, the players need to prepare the tiles. A full Mahjong set consists of 136 tiles. Once the set is ready, each player will be dealt 13 tiles, and one tile will be placed face down in the center of the table (called the “draw tile”).
Turn Sequence
In Mahjong, each turn follows these steps:
Drawing a Tile: Each player draws a tile from the center pile (or “draw pile”). After drawing, the player will have 13 tiles in hand.
Playing a Tile: After drawing a tile, the player can play a tile to the table in several ways:
- Chow (Straight): Form a sequence of three consecutive tiles in the same suit (e.g., 1-2-3 Bamboo).
- Pong (Triple): Form a set of three identical tiles (e.g., 7-7-7 Circles).
- Kong (Quad): Form a set of four identical tiles (e.g., 3-3-3-3 Characters).
Discarding a Tile: After drawing a tile, the player discards one tile face up. This discarded tile can be used by other players to form valid sets.
Scoring: When a player has completed their hand (a valid set of 14 tiles), they declare and score their hand. In a round of Mahjong, points can be accumulated from valid sets, bonus tiles, and special plays.
Valid Sets in Mahjong
To win at Mahjong, you need to form valid sets. The following are the basic types of sets:
- Chow (Straight): A sequence of three consecutive tiles in the same suit (e.g., 1-2-3 Bamboo).
- Pong (Triple): A set of three identical tiles (e.g., 7-7-7 Circles).
- Kong (Quad): A set of four identical tiles (e.g., 3-3-3-3 Characters). When forming a Kong, you must draw an extra tile from the “draw pile.”
- Pair: Two identical tiles. In Mahjong, you need one pair to complete a valid hand.
Mahjong Strategies for Beginners
Mahjong is not just a game of luck; it also requires strategy and skill in selecting tiles. Below are some basic strategies for beginners:
- Read the Table: Pay attention to the tiles your opponents discard. This will help you identify the tiles they need or already have in hand.
- Carefully Choose Tiles: Don’t discard tiles too quickly if you’re unsure of your hand. If you can’t form a valid set, keep tiles that can be combined later.
- Manage Bad Hands: If you receive many tiles that can’t form a valid set, consider changing your strategy. Discard unnecessary tiles and observe your opponents’ discards.
- Seize Opportunities: When possible, form strong sets to stay ahead of your opponents. Take advantage of the right moment to complete your hand.
Conclusion
Mahjong is a game that relies not only on luck but also on skill, observation, and strategy. Even if you are a beginner, by understanding the basic rules and practicing regularly, you will improve and eventually succeed in Mahjong games.
We hope this article has helped you understand cách chơi mạt chược and the basic strategies to become a skilled player. Good luck, and may you have enjoyable and challenging Mahjong sessions!
Read more related blogs and articles on Lankeshpandit.com. Also join our WhatsApp for latest update.