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'''Japanese mahjong''', otherwise known as '''riichi mahjong''', {{kana|麻雀、 麻将、 or マージャン}} is the Japanese varation to the 4-player table card game of mahjong, whose objective an be best described as a combination of gin rummy and poker. Even though tiles are primarily used to play the game, the game is available online and can be played with regular mahjong playing cards. It's a four player game that combines the elements of calculation and strategy that is found in chess with the elements of risk assessment, observation skills, and luck.
<div style="float:right; margin:0 0 1em 1em;">__TOC__</div>
'''Japanese mahjong''' {{kana|麻雀、 麻将、 or マージャン}} is the Japanese varation to the 4-player table card game of mahjong, whose objective can be best described as a combination of gin rummy and poker. Tiles are primarily used to play the game, and the game is available online.  It can also be played with regular [[Mahjong_equipment#Playing_cards|mahjong playing cards]]. It's a four player game that combines the elements of calculation and strategy with the elements of risk assessment, observation skills, and luck.
 
The Japanese variation is primarily played in Japan. Yet, it is available to everyone via a few Internet sites and video games.  With the past 10 years or so, the game is spreading its way into Western cultures.  While a few Westerners were exposed to the game prior to the creation of mahjong anime and manga, Western interest had significantly sparked a new wave of Western riichi players.  The formation of play groups across North America and Europe is indicative of that trend.


Gin rummy can trace its origins back to the mahjong that was played in China. Gin rummy is a card game which centers itself towards developing [[mentsu|tile groups]] of sequences (1-2-3, 6-7-8) and/or triplets (9-9-9).
Gin rummy can trace its origins back to the mahjong that was played in China. Gin rummy is a card game which centers itself towards developing [[mentsu|tile groups]] of sequences (1-2-3, 6-7-8) and/or triplets (9-9-9).


Besides the tile groups, players also need to meet another condition called a ''[[List of yaku|yaku]]''. The ''yaku'' can be synonymous to "poker hands", where ''yaku'' are a set of patterns or conditions. Just like a poker hand, for example the "full house", each ''yaku'' is associated with a name. In addition, ''yaku'' directly affect the value of a player's hand. The ''yaku'' add richness and depth to the game but at the same time requires some additional starting knowledge. When mahjong is not played on/via a computer, scoring by hand also requires additional starting knowlege.
Besides the tile groups, players also need to meet another condition called [[yaku]]. The yaku can be synonymous to "poker hands", where yaku are a set of patterns or conditions. Just like a poker hand, for example the "full house", each yaku is associated with a name. In addition, yaku directly affect the value of a player's hand, as each yaku has an associated value. The yaku add richness and depth to the game but at the same time requires some additional starting knowledge. When mahjong is not played on/via a computer, scoring by hand also requires additional starting knowledge.  The game is otherwise known as '''riichi mahjong''', due to a feature in the game rules allowing [[riichi]].


In addition, all players begin with a certain number of points, usually 25,000. It is the objective of each player to develop their hands to accumulate more points than any of the opponents. In combination with ''yaku'' and ''dora'', the number of ''han'' and ''fu'' correlates to a specific number of [[Scoring|points]] to determine the value of a hand, in the event of winning a hand.
Finally, the game is a zero-sum game.  All players begin with a certain number of points, usually 25,000. Player hands are used to take points from other players.  So, it is the objective of each player [[Tile efficiency|to develop their hands]] to accumulate more points than any of the opponents. Individual hands are scored with appropriate yaku and [[dora]].  Each [[Agari|winning hand]] value is determined with the number of [[han]] and [[fu]], that corresponds to a specific number of [[Scoring|points]].  On the flip side, it is also the objective of each player to [[Defense|minimize point losses]] against opponents.  
 
The Japanese variation is primarily played in Japan. Yet, it is available to everyone via a few Internet sites.


==Game development history==
==Game development history==


Mahjong overall is only a 100 year old game or so.  Originating in China, the game managed to spread across the country, East Asia, and even to the United States during the 1920's.
Mahjong overall is only a 100 year old game or so.  Originating in China, the game managed to spread across the country, East Asia, and even to the United States during the 1920s.  The riichi variant itself only started emerging in Japan after World War 2.  The modern variant today began in the 1960's, while the addition of red 5's started appearing in the 1980's.


===Main differences===
===Main differences===
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* [[Furiten]]
* [[Furiten]]
* [[Discard pile|Arranged discards]]
* [[Discard pile|Arranged discards]]
===Rules overview===
{{main|Rules overview}}
Unfortunately, the rules to the game is complex.  The basic game mechanics can be generally in compliance with other mahjong variants.


==Mahjong tiles and suits==
==Mahjong tiles and suits==
[[Image:Mahjong_Tiles.jpg|thumb|240px|Standard Japanese mahjong tiles]]
{{main|Mahjong equipment}}
{{main|Mahjong equipment}}


[[Image:Mahjong_Tiles.jpg|thumb|240px|Standard Japanese mahjong tiles]]
There are three suits of number tiles each with sequences from one to nine. The three suits are the '''manzu''' (characters), the '''pinzu''' (coins/circles)<!--Coins seems to be the best from a historical viewpoint and they do look like coins. Oh, but pinzu may actually mean circles in Japanese.-->, and the '''souzu''' (bamboos). These three suits have the value of 1-9 according to their own suit. The face of the one of bamboo tiles have a bird design on them. The number one and nine tiles are called terminals. The number two through eight tiles are called simples. Runs don't wrap-around from nine to one.
There are three suits of number tiles each with sequences from one to nine. The three suits are the ''wan'' (characters), the ''pinzu'' (coins/circles)<!--Coins seems to be the best from a historical viewpoint and they do look like coins. Oh, but pinzu may actually mean circles in Japanese.-->, and the ''sou'' (bamboos). These three suits have the value of 1-9 according to their own suit. The face of the one of bamboo tiles have a bird design on them. The number one and nine tiles are called terminals. The number two through eight tiles are called simples. Runs don't wrap-around from nine to one.


A fourth set of mahjong tiles is composed of the ''[[Jihai|honor tiles]]''. This set of tiles can be further divided into ''[[kazehai|wind tiles]]'' and ''[[sangenpai|dragon tiles]]''. Unlike the standard suits previously mentioned, these honor tiles have special properties towards determining ''hand value''.  They can also be referred as "word tiles". Unlike the "numbered suits", the different honor tiles cannot be mixed together to form [[mentsu|tile groupings]].
A fourth set of mahjong tiles is composed of the '''[[jihai]]''' (honor tiles). This set of tiles can be further divided into '''[[kazehai]]''' (wind tiles) and '''[[sangenpai]]''' (dragon tiles). Unlike the standard suits previously mentioned, these honor tiles have special properties towards determining [[Han|hand value]].  They can also be referred as "word tiles". Unlike the "numbered suits", the different honor tiles cannot be mixed together to form [[mentsu|tile groupings]].


Newer Japanese mahjong sets also come with four red-five ''dora'' tiles. One number five character tile, two number five circle tiles, and one number five bamboo tile are replaced with their matching red tiles. These red ''dora'' tiles can replace the appropriate number of standard five-tiles. Usage of the red ''dora'' tiles is optional. In addition, sets also come with flower and season tiles, but these are not used in the Japanese game. Instead, flower and seasons are used in other variations like Chinese and American styles.
Newer Japanese mahjong sets also come with four red-five [[dora]] tiles. One number five character tile, two number five circle tiles, and one number five bamboo tile are replaced with their matching red tiles. These red dora tiles can replace the appropriate number of standard five-tiles. Usage of the red dora tiles is optional. In addition, sets also come with flower and season tiles, but these are not used in the Japanese game. Instead, flower and seasons are used in other variations like Chinese and American styles.


==Game setup==
==Game setup==
{{main|Japanese mahjong setup}}


The game of Japanese mahjong is played with a set of 136 tiles. Of these 136 tiles, there are 34 different tiles with 4 of each kind. Aside from online, the live game is played on a square table, with the mahjong tiles places onto a mahjong mat. While the mat is not necessary, it is useful to use the mat in order to protect the tile surfaces.
The game's setup features the 136 tiles, arranged in four walls of 17 tiles long double-stacked. After shuffling the tiles, all four players are responsible for creating the initial setup, which has every tile face down. A dice roll is used to determine both the initial dealer at the start of the game as well as the '''wall break''' at the beginning of each hand. After this process, both the [[dead wall]] is separated; and the tiles are dealt to each player to produce their [[haipai|starting hands]]. Play begins once the dealer makes the initial draw and discard.
<!--eventually, I'll bring in pictures to illustrate these directions-->
 
===Starting the game===
For casual games, players may take any seat desired on each side of the square table. Then dice are used to determine the position of the first [[Dealer|dealer]]. With the dice roll, the count begins at 1 starting with the dice roller; and the count moves counter-clockwise. At the end of this initial count, the player is assigned as the dealer and receives the dealer marker. 
 
This dealer marker is an east-south prevailing-wind marker used in games to indicate the round and the current dealer. The table's raised border has four recesses where the prevailing-wind marker, counters, and carry-over [[riichi]] bets can be placed.
 
As the dealer, this player is assigned the wind of East. The player to the right of the dealer is South. The player across the dealer is West, and finally, the player to the left is North. Eventually, during the course of the game, this dealer assignment rotates to give every player the chance to be dealer. Likewise, the wind arrangement rotates counter-clockwise. As a note, South is always to the right of the dealer East.
 
In more formal settings, like tournaments, the initial dice roll and seating procedures may follow additional protocols.  With regards to seating, four or five tiles are randomized for players to draw seating positions.  The four tiles are naturally one of each wind tiles.  With five tiles, a haku tile is added, where drawing this tile determines the location of the east player.  After the tile draws, the players sit accordingly in the following order, counterclockwise: East, South, West, and North. Then, the person sitting East rolls the dice to determine the first dealer, as the procedure mentioned above.  With regards to dice rolling, the player who drew east bears the task of determining the first dealer.
 
An east-south prevailing-wind marker is used in hanchan games to indicate the round. The table's raised border has four recesses where the prevailing-wind marker, counters, and carry-over rīchi bets can be placed.
 
===Building walls and breaking the wall===
At the beginning of [[kyoku|each hand]], the tiles are shuffled and arranged into walls. After shuffling, tiles are arranged into 4-double stacked rows of 17-tiles faced down. Every player has the responsibility of building their own walls arranged in front of them. Once the walls are built, the dealer determines the initial breakage of the wall using a dice roll. Once again, starting with the dealer, the count begins at 1 and the count moves clockwise. Then the wall of the player at the end of this count is broken, where the player counts with the same dice number from the first tile on the right side of his/her wall towards the left.
 
===The dead wall and dora===
[[Image:Dora and Wanpai.jpg|thumb|250px|Dead wall showing 2-pin as the dora indicator.]]
{{main|Dead wall}}
 
Then the dead-wall must be set. From the point of the initial wall break, players count 7-tiles to the right of the initial break; and the wall is broken again. There should be a total of 14-tiles (7-tiles double stacked) in this group. This is the dead wall, which consists of tiles set aside and not used in the regular draw. Finally, the third tile closest to the inital break is flipped over and used as a ''[[Dora|dora]]'' indicator.
 
===Dealing the tiles===
From the initial break, the dealer (East) begins by taking a group of 4 tiles from the regular wall. The South takes the next group of 4. Then West with 4 more, and North with 4 more. This procedure is repeated 2 more times, to ensure an initial deal of 12-tiles for each player. At this point, the dealer East takes the first and third tiles on the top row of the wall. South takes the next available draw, then West, and finally North. At this initial deal of the tiles, the dealer East should have 14 tiles; and the rest have 13. The game hand begins with the dealer discarding 1 tile.
 
Players are recommended to arrange their tiles according to suit, but it is not necessary. Some players are able to read their hands with the tiles in randomized order.
 
===Automatic tables===
{{main|Automatic mahjong table}}
 
Sometimes, the automatic table is used. These tables include one or two sets of tiles, with different colored backs. The table uses magnets to properly align the tiles face down. These tables randomly and conveniently arrange the tiles into the 4 separate walls. With push of the red button, four 17x2 walls of shuffled tiles rise up from below. With the push of a red button on the central island, it rises up and the discard ponds collapse to allow players to push tiles into the mixer below.
 
The automatic table includes one or two sets of tiles, with blue or orange backs. With the push of a red button on the central island, it rises up and the discard ponds collapse to allow players to push tiles into the mixer below. With another push of the red button, four 17x2 walls of shuffled tiles rise up from below. Automatic tables are real and not that uncommon.  However, they are rather expensive, with the cheapest tables priced around ¥2000, or roughly $2000 or so.
 
Some automatic tables are capable of keeping score, based on [[tenbou|point sticks]] stored in four pull out compartments. In the event of riichi, the central island has four slots where 1000-point stick rīchi bets can be placed.  In front of each player, an display shows the player's current score.


==Game play==
==Game play==
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===Tile draws and turn order===
===Tile draws and turn order===
{{main|Naki|Jikaze}}
The game begins with the dealer's initial discard. From here onward, each player gets a turn to draw a tile from the wall, all players, except the discarder, has the option of [[Naki|claiming a discarded tile]] by '''chii''', '''pon''', '''kan''', or '''ron'''.
The game begins with the dealer's initial discard. From here onward, each player gets a turn to draw a tile from the wall, all players, except the discarder, has the option of [[Naki|claiming a discarded tile]] by '''chii''', '''pon''', '''kan''', or '''ron'''.


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===Discard pile===
===Discard pile===
Every player's discard is organized and [[discard pile|arranged in front of them]]. Per convention, players line up their discarded tiles in rows of six. This is not a necessary convention, but it is the preferred convention. The discard pile is used two-fold: as record of a player's discards, and as an indicator of [[Genbutsu|safe-tiles]] for [[defense|defensive play]].
{{main|Kawa}}
 
Every player's discard is organized and [[discard pile|arranged in front of them]]. Per convention, players line up their discarded tiles in rows of six. This is not a necessary convention, but it is the preferred convention. The arranged discard pile is used for two primary purposes: as record of a player's discards, and as an indicator of [[Genbutsu|safe-tiles]] for [[defense|defensive play]].  Additionally, players learn and are able to discern player hand states by reading the discard piles.


===Furiten===
===Furiten===
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{{main|Furiten}}
{{main|Furiten}}


The '''furiten rule''' is a fairly complicated rule as it takes into account not just one's own set of discards, but it may also consider the other players' discards.  The discard pile may indicate a player in '''furiten'''. If a player has a winning tile in the player's discard pile, then the player is in ''furiten''. This state of ''furiten'' is dubious as it disables the player's ability to win off a discard. In other words, the player cannot claim ''ron''.
The '''furiten rule''' applies to player's hands and the tile discards, by which specific discarded tiles may indicate a player in '''furiten'''. For this reason, players must discard their tiles in arranged rows, normally of 6 tiles per row.  If a player has a winning tile in the player's discard pile, then the player is in furiten. While in furiten, the player's ability to win off a discard is disabled. In other words, the player cannot claim ron.


In addition, the disabling of ''ron'' by ''furiten'' applies to all winning tiles, not just a particular tile in the discard. If the player's hand looks like this:
In addition, the disabling of ron by furiten applies to all winning tiles, not just a particular tile in the discard. If the player's hand looks like this:


* Example tenpai hand:
* Example tenpai hand:
:{{#mjt:34567p333m678s44z}}  Waiting for: {{#mjt:2p}} - {{#mjt:5p}}, or {{#mjt:8p}}
:{{#mjt:34567p333m678s44z}}  Waiting for: {{#mjt:2p}} - {{#mjt:5p}}, or {{#mjt:8p}}


This example hand is a ''tenpai'' hand waiting three tiles . If any of those tiles are in the player's discard pile, then the player cannot claim ''ron''. A player can get out of ''furiten'' by changing the hand composition.
This example hand is a tenpai hand waiting three tiles . If any of those tiles are in the player's discard pile, then the player cannot claim ron. A player can get out of furiten by changing the hand composition.


This rule forces players to take extra consideration, when making discards.  Often, a player must have good reason to discard particular tiles, especially when they are already part of a tile group.
This rule forces players to take extra consideration, when making discards.  Often, a player must have good reason to discard particular tiles, especially when they are already part of a tile group.


==Hand development==
==Hand development==
{{main|Tenpai|Tile efficiency}}
{{main|Shanten|Tenpai|Tile efficiency}}


The process of drawing and discarding, as well as making claims to discard is the process of hand development. As a player, after the initial deal of hands, players have a ''start hand''. So, the aim of a player is to develop this hand into a '''[[tenpai]]''' hand, and eventually a '''complete hand'''. Typically, a complete mahjong hand is composed of '''4 tile groups and a pair'''. The hand may be open or closed and have '''at [[Yaku|minimum 1-yaku]]'''. This is a total of 13 tiles plus 1 (the winning tile), like so:
The process of drawing and discarding, as well as making claims to discard is the process of hand development. As a player, after the initial deal of hands, players have a ''start hand''. So, the aim of a player is to develop this hand into a '''[[tenpai]]''' hand, and eventually a '''complete hand'''. Typically, a complete mahjong hand is composed of '''4 tile groups and a pair'''. The hand may be open or closed and have '''at [[Yaku|minimum 1-yaku]]'''. This is a total of 13 tiles plus 1 (the winning tile), like so:


:{{#mjt:234m666s11p11666z}} May win with: {{#mjt:1p}} or {{#mjt:1z}}
:{{#mjt:234m666s11p567p11z}} May win with: {{#mjt:1p}} or {{#mjt:1z}}


Per [[atozuke|the yaku rule]], it is possible to unable to win with the first tile by discard.  However, the the second tile may be claimed for a win under any circumstance in the [[East round]], or for the [[dealer]].
Per [[atozuke|the yaku rule]], it is impossible to win with the first tile by discard unless [[riichi]] has been declared.  However, the the second tile may be claimed for a win under any circumstance in the [[East round]], or for the [[dealer]].


A hand that is one tile away from being complete is in ''tenpai''. A hand that is one tile away from ''tenpai'' is one ''shanten''. A hand that is two tiles away from ''tenpai'' is two ''shanten'', and so on. Experienced players may sense how likely they are to win a hand based on their initial ''shanten'' number.
A hand that is one tile away from being complete is in [[tenpai]]. A hand that is one tile away from tenpai is one [[shanten]]. A hand that is two tiles away from tenpai is two shanten, and so on. Experienced players may sense how likely they are to win a hand based on their initial shanten number.


There are two notable '''exceptions''' to the 4 tile groups and a pair pattern. Players can try to form [[Chiitoitsu|seven pairs]] or the rare [[Kokushi musou|thirteen orphans]] hand. Both of these hands are closed by default.
There are two notable '''exceptions''' to the 4 tile groups and a pair pattern. Players can try to form [[Chiitoitsu|seven pairs]] or the rare [[Kokushi musou|thirteen orphans]] hand. Both of these hands are closed by default.
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*'''Consecutive same suit Sequences'''. Sequences must be in consecutive numbers per the following examples:
*'''Consecutive same suit Sequences'''. Sequences must be in consecutive numbers per the following examples:
{| class=wikitable width=30%
{| class=wikitable style="width:30%; min-width:215px;"
! Closed !! Open
! Closed !! Open
|-
|-
|align=center| {{#mjt:123m}} ||align=center|  {{#mjt:3'45p}}
|align=center| {{#mjt:123m}} ||align=center|  {{#mjt:4'35p}}
|-
|-
|align=center| {{#mjt:678p}} ||align=center|  {{#mjt:4'56s}}
|align=center| {{#mjt:678p}} ||align=center|  {{#mjt:4'56s}}
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*'''Same suit triplets'''. Triplets are three-of-a-kind. As such, the tiles must be of the same kind both in number and suit. Per examples:
*'''Same suit triplets'''. Triplets are three-of-a-kind. As such, the tiles must be of the same kind both in number and suit. Per examples:
{| class=wikitable width=30%
{| class=wikitable style="width:30%; min-width:215px;"
! Closed !! Open
! Closed !! Open
|-
|-
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A special set of rules and procedures applies to [[kan|quads]]. When in special possession of all four tiles of a specific type, a player may invoke these rules, or otherwise, decline the option.  Like many aspects of the game, this is a risk-reward option.  When choosing to invoke the "quad rules", a player may declare after the current tile draw, if four tiles or the fourth tile is in the hand.  If a player possesses three tiles and a player discarded a fourth, then the player may invoke the "quad rules" on that discard.
A special set of rules and procedures applies to [[kan|quads]]. When in special possession of all four tiles of a specific type, a player may invoke these rules, or otherwise, decline the option.  Like many aspects of the game, this is a risk-reward option.  When choosing to invoke the "quad rules", a player may declare after the current tile draw, if four tiles or the fourth tile is in the hand.  If a player possesses three tiles and a player discarded a fourth, then the player may invoke the "quad rules" on that discard.


After the declaration for a quad, then a player gains special access to the [[dead wall]].  This is one of the first four tiles to the left of the ''dora-indicator''. Afterwards, if the the extra tile does not complete the hand, the player must discard and play moves on to the right. As a sidenote, for each call ''kan'', the player's tile count increases by one for each quad. Yet once again, a quad counts as a triplet plus one.
After the declaration for a quad, then a player gains special access to the [[dead wall]].  This is one of the first four tiles to the left of the dora-indicator. Afterwards, if the the extra tile does not complete the hand, the player must discard and play moves on to the right. As a sidenote, for each call kan, the player's tile count increases by one for each quad. Yet once again, a quad counts as a triplet plus one.


Furthermore, when a player calls or declares a ''kan'', an additional ''dora indicator'' tile is flipped. This is called the ''kandora''. Some rules may allow the ''kandora'' to be flipped immediately after the ''kan'' call. Other rules have stricter procedures on when the ''kandora'' tile is flipped. Some make the distinction between the open ''kan'' and the closed ''kan''. Finally, a tile is shifted from the end of the regular wall to the ''dead wall'', in order to maintain 14-tiles in the ''dead wall''.  Because of the additional dora, a play using quads can be very risky or rewarding.
Furthermore, when a player calls or declares a kan, an additional dora indicator tile is flipped. This is called the kandora. Some rules may allow the kandora to be flipped immediately after the kan call. Other rules have stricter procedures on when the kandora tile is flipped. Some make the distinction between the open kan and the closed kan. Finally, a tile is shifted from the end of the regular wall to the dead wall, in order to maintain 14-tiles in the dead wall.  Because of the additional dora, a play using quads can be very risky or rewarding.


===Claiming discards===
===Claiming discards===
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Finally, a hand is distinguishable between an '''open hand''' and '''closed hand'''. A closed hand is a player's hand, that had yet to make any claim on a discard. A hand in this state is fully concealed from the other players. In the event a player makes a claim on a discard, then the player's hand changes from a closed hand to an open hand.  
Finally, a hand is distinguishable between an '''open hand''' and '''closed hand'''. A closed hand is a player's hand, that had yet to make any claim on a discard. A hand in this state is fully concealed from the other players. In the event a player makes a claim on a discard, then the player's hand changes from a closed hand to an open hand.  


Usually, a player's hand value decreases in the event of an open hand, but this may not always be the case, especially for some ''yakuman'' hands. Japanese mahjong strategy centers on knowing when to appropriately make the above calls. Knowledge of the ''yaku'' plays a large part in this decision making process.
Usually, a player's hand value decreases in the event of an open hand, but this may not always be the case, especially for some [[yakuman]] hands. Japanese mahjong strategy centers on knowing when to appropriately make the above calls. Knowledge of the yaku plays a large part in this decision making process.


==End of a hand==
==End of a hand==
The procedure of drawing, discarding, and maintaining a hand ends with many different scenarios.  The ideal for any player is the completion of the hand and winning it. A hand may end when all the tiles, except for the dead-wall tiles, are drawn, or when a player ''chombos'', meaning making an illegal play. After the end of the hand, points are exchanged accordingly. Then afterwards, the tiles are reshuffled to setup the next hand, or ''renchan''.
The procedure of drawing, discarding, and maintaining a hand ends with many different scenarios.  The ideal for any player is the completion of the hand and winning it. A hand may end when all the tiles, except for the dead-wall tiles, are drawn, or when a player chombos, meaning making an illegal play. After the end of the hand, points are exchanged accordingly. Then afterwards, the tiles are reshuffled to setup the next hand, or [[renchan]].


===Winning a hand===
===Winning a hand===
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{{Main|Ryuukyoku}}
{{Main|Ryuukyoku}}


Also, known as '''ryuukyoku''', the hand ends in a draw, after all the tiles from the wall are drawn, except for the 14 tiles in the dead wall. In this case, the player(s) in tenpai receive points from those in noten. A hand in tenpai is one that needs just one more tile, either by draw (tsumo) or discard (ron) to win. However, that needed tile was never claimed. Nearly 40% of professional games go to an exhaustive draw due to players immediately dropping out of the race when a player declares riichi.
Also, known as '''ryuukyoku''', the hand ends in a draw.  In this case, all the tiles from the wall are drawn, except for the 14 tiles in the dead wall. The player(s) in tenpai receive points from those in noten. However, that needed tile was never claimed. Nearly 40% of professional games go to an exhaustive draw due to players immediately dropping out of the race when a player declares riichi.


===Abortive draw===
===Abortive draw===
{{main|Tochuu ryuukoku}}
{{main|Tochuu ryuukyoku}}


Various conditions may allow players to abort the hand.  In other words, a mahjong hand may end prematurely before anyone claims a win or before all the tiles are drawn and discarded. In these events, no points are exchanged; and no penalties are enforced. Instead, the hand ends, and the tiles are reshuffled.
Various conditions may allow players to abort the hand.  In other words, a mahjong hand may end prematurely before anyone claims a win or before all the tiles are drawn and discarded. In these events, no points are exchanged; and no penalties are enforced. Instead, the hand ends, and the tiles are reshuffled.
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{{main|Chombo}}
{{main|Chombo}}


The '''chombo''' is a penalty to the player, who performs specific illegal procedures. Other illegal procedures may be forgivable if done accidentally, like accidentally drawing a tile from a different part of the wall. However, things like cheating or winning without a yaku are more serious offenses. In the event of a chombo, the player must play out a penalty of points to the amount of a [[Scoring|mangan]].  Otherwise, the rules to chombo may be [[Rule_variations#Chombo|modified]].
The '''chombo''' is a penalty to the player, who performs specific illegal procedures. Other illegal procedures may be forgivable if done accidentally, like accidentally drawing a tile from a different part of the wall. However, things like cheating or winning without a yaku are more serious offenses. In the event of a chombo, the player must play out a penalty of points to the amount of a [[Scoring|mangan]].  Otherwise, the rules to chombo may be [[Rule_variations#Chombo|modified]].  A more common practice involves docking penalized points after the game to expedite it and not waste time enforcing the penalty.


==Scoring==
==Hand scoring==
{{main|Scoring}}
{{main|Scoring|Han|Fu}}


Winning hands are awarded points based on the difficulty and luck needed to form them. So, the appropriate amount of points are exchanged between players according to the tables in the [[Scoring|scoring rules]] of the game. Naturally, the point exchanges are already handled by software and mahjong game sites. Even some automatic tables are capable of scoring calculations.
Out of all the mahjong variants, this is the most complicated scoring system.  Winning hands are awarded points based on their composition. So, the appropriate amount of points are exchanged between players according to the tables in the [[Scoring|scoring rules]] of the game. The scoring for this game features two variables: [[han]] and [[fu]].  These two factor into the game's scoring equation and other factors to generate the game's [[scoring table]]. Naturally, the point exchanges are already handled by software and mahjong game sites. Even some automatic tables are capable of scoring calculations.  Otherwise, players go on to [[Score table memorization|memorize the point values]].


Dealers receive roughly 50% more points when winning than non-dealers. However, if a non-dealer wins by draw, then the dealer must pay roughly 50% while non-dealers pay roughly 25% each. The winner of a hand collects any riichi bets on the table and additional points allowed by [[honba]].
Dealers receive roughly 50% more points when winning than non-dealers. However, if a non-dealer wins by draw, then the dealer must pay roughly 50% while non-dealers pay roughly 25% each. The winner of a hand collects any riichi bets on the table and additional points allowed by [[honba]].


==Game Rounds==
==Game Rounds==
{{main|Hanchan}}
To note the game's progression, game rounds are used.


Most games consist of two prevailing-wind rounds and are called '''hanchan'''. Each of the two rounds is labeled as the '''east round''' and '''south round'''. For each wind round, every player gets a chance to be seated as the dealer once per round. A prevailing wind round is complete after all four players have had a rotation as the dealer. At the beginning of the second round, the initial east seat-wind player turns over the prevailing-wind marker to indicate that it's the south prevailing-wind round.  For shorter games, [[tonpussen]] may be played, which is just a single east round.  
===Wind rounds===
{{main|Ba}}
 
Games are organized into wind rounds. For each wind round, every player has the chance to be the dealer once.
 
===Tonpuusen===
{{main|Tonpuusen}}
 
For shorter games, players may play a single East Round.  Here players only have the opportunity to hold the dealer seat once. After the conclusion of four wind rotations, then the game is brought to the end.  Yet, the points may invoke the extra round and bring the game into the South Round.


===End of game===
===End of game===
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* '''Negative points'''. When any player's points falls into the negatives, or below zero, then the game ends. At that point, the player has run out of point sticks. The game can continue when a player has exactly 0 points.  Some rules may allow continuance of the game regardless, in order to complete the entire wind rotation.
* '''Negative points'''. When any player's points falls into the negatives, or below zero, then the game ends. At that point, the player has run out of point sticks. The game can continue when a player has exactly 0 points.  Some rules may allow continuance of the game regardless, in order to complete the entire wind rotation.
* '''Win and finish'''. On the final hand of the last round, if the dealer wins the hand, the dealer may choose to continue the game or end the game. A similar rule applies to the last battle of team matches. If the dealer's team is in the lead after the first hand of the very last rotation, the dealer may choose to end the match when the match would otherwise continue due to dealer repeats. In which case, teams will usually opt to end the match.
* '''Win and finish'''. On the final hand of the last round, if the dealer wins the hand, the dealer may choose to continue the game or end the game. A similar rule applies to the last battle of team matches. If the dealer's team is in the lead after the first hand of the very last rotation, the dealer may choose to end the match when the match would otherwise continue due to dealer repeats. In which case, teams will usually opt to end the match.
* '''Extra rounds'''. The game may play out an extra round, when a regular game ends with all of the players under 30,000 points.  In the case of [[tonpussen]], the game extends into the '''South round'''.  For a [[hanchan]], the game extends into the '''West round'''.  This overtime round ends as soon as any player has over 30,000 points. If all the points remains below 30,000 after another full round, then another overtime round may be played in the next prevailing-wind.
* '''Extra rounds'''. The game may play out an extra round, when a regular game ends with all of the players under 30,000 points.  In the case of [[tonpuusen]], the game extends into the '''South round'''.  For a [[hanchan]], the game extends into the '''West round'''.  This overtime round ends as soon as any player has over 30,000 points. If all the points remains below 30,000 after another full round, then another overtime round may be played in the next prevailing-wind.
Finally, the player with the greatest number of points at the end wins. For additional scoring, another final [[Uma|uma score]] or +/- score may be applied.


===Tied scores===
===End game score===
When two or more players finish the game with tied scores, the tiebreaker follows the original wind seating order. Raw scores are not adjusted. Instead, the order factors towards the awarding of the uma score.
{{main|Uma}}
Finally, the player with the greatest number of points at the end wins. For additional scoring, another final [[Uma|uma score]] or +/- score may be applied.  While this additional calculation has its origins around gambling, the adjusted points also allows comparison between games. For example, in two different games, a player may score exactly 34,000 points.  However, in one game, the player finished 1st; while in the second game, the player finished 2nd.  The point adjustment becomes a better reflection on player performance, rather than just using the raw scores.


==Variants==
==Variants==
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===Three player===
===Three player===
{{main|Sanma}}
{{main|Sanma}}
Sometimes, games can be played with three players, simply because four players are not available.  A modified version to the rules are created to accommodate this scenario.


===Two player===
===Two player===
{{main|Futari mahjong}}
{{main|Futari mahjong}}
For any 1-on-1 situation, even a two-player variation is possible.  Though gameplay becomes even more limited than that of the three-player variation.  The tile count is even less; and often, it is down to a single suit.
===Space Mahjong===
{{main|Space mahjong}}
A variant that removes limitations regarding terminal tiles by wrapping around, causing them to act like any other numbered tile, while honor tiles also act more like number tiles as well. In addition, you may call chii on any player, as you would with pon.
===Washizu===
{{main|Washizu mahjong}}
'''Washizu mahjong''' is a particular variant, that changes the nature of the tiles.  Here, three out of ever four tile type uses transparent tiles.  This enables other players to be able to see most of the other players' hands.
===Buu Mahjong===
{{main|Buu Mahjong}}
A variant that is much more fast-paced, and considered more suited towards gambling, with the goal of 'sinking' the other players.
== Player environments ==
The game may be played under a number of different environments.  Light play or new players may engage under casual settings, where rule enforcement is not so strict.  Plus, the player pace may not be so rigorous either.  Likewise, less emphasis on winning and losing is placed below that of merely enjoying the game and other players' company.  Formality to the game is increased under tournament settings.  Here, scores are pressed to the utmost importance, with the objective of placing well in the tournament and/or outright winning the event.  Naturally, participants are expected to be knowledgeable of the rules and strategies.  Commercial play are hosted in [[Jansou|mahjong parlors]], where players come to pay-to-play.  Either at the parlors, casinos, or residences, gambling may be involved, whether it be legal or not legal.  Finally, professional play involves televised games; and a staff may take detailed record of games and their results.
=== Club play ===
=== Tournaments ===
{{main|Mahjong tournaments}}
=== Jansou ===
[[Jansou]] are known as mahjong parlors.  They're generally commercial establishments catered for mahjong play.  Most jansou are located in Japan, but a small number are located in the United States.  Typically, players enter these establishments to play with a fee.  They typically apply their own [[Rule variations|game rules]].
=== Etiquette practices ===
{{main|Etiquette in mahjong}}
A number of etiquette guidelines are in place, both written and unwritten depending on the playing environment.  Players are recommended to learn and take heed of these guidelines in order to maintain a positive game atmosphere.
==Media==
[[Image:Nintendo mahjong.jpg|thumb|right|250px|An old hand held Nintendo mahjong game.]]
===Blogs===
{{main|List of mahjong blogs}}
Players have been writing about the game as they play it.  Topics cover game activity, strategy, and overall experience.
===Books===
{{main|List of mahjong books}}
Books on various game subjects have been written.  Many focus on player development regarding [[Mahjong strategy|game strategy and tactics]].
===Television===
{{main|List of mahjong television series}}
The game has been featured in a number of television series and movies.
===Video games===
{{main|List of mahjong video games}}
A number of video games featuring mahjong have been developed.  The history of mahjong video games stretches as far back as the history of video gaming itself.  By the 1980's, mahjong has been big enough in Japan, such that it was natural for the game to progress within the then fledgling video game industry.


==External links==
==External links==
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* [http://mahjong-europe.org/ European Mahjong Association website]
* [http://mahjong-europe.org/ European Mahjong Association website]
: Their Riichi Rules for Japanese Mahjong contains detailed rules and terminology. A previous version was used by Crunchyroll's Saki anime translator.
: Their Riichi Rules for Japanese Mahjong contains detailed rules and terminology. A previous version was used by Crunchyroll's Saki anime translator.
* [http://www.uspml.com/start.htm United States Professional Mahjong League]
* [http://uspml.com/documents/japanese_mahjong_guide_v103.pdf Barticle's Japanese Mahjong Guide]
: Barticle's Japanese Mahjong Guide can be downloaded from the downloads section. It contains even more detailed rules and terminology.
: Barticle's Japanese Mahjong Guide can be downloaded from the downloads section. It contains even more detailed rules and terminology.
* [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Japanese_Mahjong Wikipedia's Japanese mahjong page]
* [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Japanese_Mahjong Wikipedia's Japanese mahjong page]
* [http://www.ma-jan.or.jp/guide/game_rule.php Japanese Professional League rules] (''Japanese'')
* [http://www.ma-jan.or.jp/guide/game_rule.php Japanese Professional League rules] (''Japanese'')
: JPML ruleset
: JPML ruleset
* [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mh0brmqq4sk Introductory explanation video to the game]
: Hanayori Uta's video.
* [http://www.osamuko.com Osamuko mahjong blog]
* [http://www.osamuko.com Osamuko mahjong blog]
: A Japanese Mahjong blog for English speakers
: A Japanese Mahjong blog for English speakers
* [http://www.mahjong-saikyosen.com/ルール/ Saikyosen rules]
* [https://mahjong-saikyosen.com/?page_id=365 Saikyosen rules]
: Rules from the Saikyosen tournament
: Rules from the annual [[Mahjong Saikyousen|Saikyousen tournament]]
* [http://justanotherjapanesemahjongblog.blogspot.com/ Just Another Japanese Mahjong blog]
* [http://justanotherjapanesemahjongblog.blogspot.com/ Just Another Japanese Mahjong blog]
: Another blog regarding various aspects of the game.
: Another blog regarding various aspects of the game.


[[Category:Game rules]]
[[Category:Game rules|1]]
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