The Most Popular Type of Mahjong Called, Ranked

Choose the type you think is the most popular!

Author: Gregor Krambs
Updated on May 24, 2024 07:10
Mahjong, a game steeped in rich tradition and enjoyed worldwide, sees variations in play style depending on cultural and regional preferences. These differences can make it challenging for enthusiasts to identify which version might suit their interests or skill levels best. By creating a dynamic list that reflects community preferences, we offer a clear, crowd-sourced view of popular Mahjong variations. This allows users not only to see which games are favored by the majority but also offers an opportunity to cast their own votes and influence the rankings directly.

What Is the Most Popular Type of Mahjong Called?

  1. 1
    59
    votes

    Chinese Official Mahjong

    The standard version of Mahjong used in international competitions, with scoring rules that emphasize strategy.
    • Also Known As: Competition Mahjong
    • Governing Body: World Mahjong Organization
  2. 2
    29
    votes

    Hong Kong Mahjong

    A variation popular in Hong Kong and parts of South-East Asia, known for its fast pace and simple scoring rules.
    • Number of Tiles: 144
    • Key Feature: Simplicity in scoring
  3. 3
    26
    votes

    American Mahjong

    A variant of Mahjong standardized by the National Mah Jongg League, featuring unique joker tiles and specific hands.
    • Unique Feature: Joker tiles
    • Scoring: Card of hands
  4. 4
    24
    votes

    Riichi Mahjong

    A Japanese variant that introduces unique rules like riichi and dora, adding depth and strategy.
    • Origin: Japan
    • Unique Rule: Riichi declaration
  5. 5
    15
    votes

    Taiwanese Mahjong

    A variation with unique scoring rules and a focus on triples and quadruples, popular in Taiwan.
    • Number of Tiles: 144 plus 8 flowers and seasons
    • Unique Feature: High value on quadruples
  6. 6
    12
    votes

    Singaporean Mahjong

    A version of Mahjong popular in Singapore, with unique rules like the animal tiles that offer additional points.
    • Unique Feature: Animal tiles
    • Popularity: Singapore
  7. 7
    6
    votes

    Malaysian Mahjong

    A variant of Mahjong played in Malaysia, which incorporates rules from both Cantonese and Taiwanese versions.
    • Influence: Cantonese and Taiwanese Mahjong
    • Popularity: Malaysia
  8. 8
    0
    votes

    Fujian Mahjong

    A variation with unique rules and scoring, popular in the Fujian province of China.
    • Location: Fujian, China
    • Unique Feature: Specific regional rules
  9. 9
    0
    votes

    Cantonese Mahjong

    A traditional variant very similar to Hong Kong Mahjong but with slight differences in scoring rules and bonus tiles.
    • Similar To: Hong Kong Mahjong
    • Location: Cantonese-speaking regions
  10. 10
    0
    votes

    Sichuan Mahjong

    A simpler, faster variant from China's Sichuan province, known for its absence of honor tiles and several unique rules.
    • Key Difference: No honor tiles
    • Popularity: Sichuan, China

Missing your favorite type?

Graphs
Error: Failed to render graph
Discussion
No discussion started, be the first!

About this ranking

This is a community-based ranking of the most popular type of Mahjong called. We do our best to provide fair voting, but it is not intended to be exhaustive. So if you notice something or type is missing, feel free to help improve the ranking!

Statistics

  • 3609 views
  • 171 votes
  • 10 ranked items

Voting Rules

A participant may cast an up or down vote for each type once every 24 hours. The rank of each type is then calculated from the weighted sum of all up and down votes.

Additional Information

More about the Most Popular Type of Mahjong Called

Mahjong is a traditional game that has captivated players for centuries. It originated in China and has spread to many parts of the world. The game involves skill, strategy, and a bit of luck. Players use tiles to form sets and pairs, aiming to complete a winning hand.

The game is typically played with four players. Each player starts with a set number of tiles. The objective is to draw and discard tiles to form specific combinations. These combinations can include sequences, triplets, or a pair. The first player to complete a winning hand wins the round.

Mahjong tiles are usually made of bone, bamboo, or plastic. There are three main suits: characters, circles, and bamboo. Each suit has tiles numbered from one to nine. In addition to these, there are honor tiles, which include winds and dragons. Some versions of the game also include flower and season tiles.

The game begins with the players shuffling the tiles and building a wall. The wall is then broken, and each player draws their initial hand. Players take turns drawing a tile from the wall and discarding one. The goal is to improve their hand with each draw. When a player completes a winning hand, they declare "Mahjong" and reveal their tiles.

Scoring in Mahjong can vary. Points are awarded based on the difficulty of the winning hand. Simple hands earn fewer points, while complex hands earn more. Some versions of the game have detailed scoring systems, while others keep it simple.

Mahjong is more than just a game; it is a social activity. It brings people together and fosters a sense of community. Players often chat and share stories while playing. The game is also known for its calming effect, as the rhythmic clattering of the tiles can be soothing.

Learning to play Mahjong can seem daunting at first. The rules and strategies take time to master. However, with practice, it becomes easier. Many players find the game addictive and enjoy the challenge it presents. It is a game that requires both mental agility and patience.

Mahjong has also found a place in popular culture. It appears in movies, television shows, and books. The game has inspired various digital versions, allowing people to play online or on their devices. These digital versions often include tutorials, making it easier for new players to learn the game.

Despite its ancient origins, Mahjong remains relevant today. It continues to attract new players and maintains a loyal following. The game's blend of strategy, skill, and chance makes it appealing to a wide range of people. Whether played casually or competitively, Mahjong offers endless enjoyment.

In conclusion, Mahjong is a timeless game that has stood the test of time. Its rich history and cultural significance add to its charm. The game requires strategy, skill, and a bit of luck. It brings people together and provides hours of entertainment. Whether you are a seasoned player or new to the game, Mahjong offers a rewarding experience.

Share this article