Mentsu

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Mentsu (面子) are the melds used for the game. The melds follow a similar pattern to the regular card game, gin rummy. The melds are subdivided into three types: shuntsu (sequence), koutsu (three-of-a-kind), and kantsu (four-of-a-kind). Forming these melds is a central part of developing a mahjong hand to the point of tenpai and even winning the hand. Two factors go towards the formation of melds: suit and number (or type).

The melds

While the melds are subdivided into three types, they are further subdivided into the state of open or closed.

Shuntsu

Shuntsu is a meld consisting of three sequential numbered tiles. An example of a shuntsu would be

Koutsu

Kantsu

Kan is a special tile call in the game. This call forms a meld from four identical tiles.

External links