FAQ — Mah Jongg Mania

Question 1

Why Should I Play in a Tournament?

Accepted Answer

Tournament play is a great way to meet new people and network with others who like to engage in friendly competition. You will ultimately improve your mah jongg skills and play faster as you challenge yourself and learn new strategies. You won't get bored waiting for the next player to throw a tile.

Question 2

How Do I Know If I'm Ready to Play in a Tournament?

Accepted Answer

Assess your familiarity with the game. Evaluate your overall understanding of the National Mah Jongg League Rules, scoring and hands on the card. How comfortable are you with tile recognition, picking and discarding tiles, melding tiles and building walls? Ultimately the decision to play rests with you and your confidence.

Question 3

Do I Have to Memorize the Card?

Accepted Answer

No, you do not have to memorize the card but be familiar with it. The card will be in front of you the entire time. Don't forget to bring your card to the tournament.

Question 4

What Should I Expect When I Arrive at the Tournament?

Accepted Answer

When you arrive at a tournament, you will be given a number and compass letter of East, West, South, or North. For example, you might receive 2S. This means that you will start at table two, and you will always sit in the South position regardless of the table you rotate to subsequently.

Question 5

How Fast Do I Have to Play in a Tournament?

Accepted Answer

Can you play 4 games in 50 minutes? Can you make quick decisions? You will naturally play faster in a tournament because there is no time to chit chat or check cell phones in between games. As long as you are mindful of time there should be no problem keeping the game moving so that your table finishes.

Question 6

Will I Feel Intimidated by the Tournament Rules?

Accepted Answer

You will be emailed a rule sheet prior to the tournament and provided with the rules upon arrival. These rules will be reviewed with you by your tournament directors before play begins. By reviewing them ahead of time you will feel more prepared.

Question 7

Is There Common Tournament Etiquette?

Accepted Answer

It is common courtesy to ask to exchange a tile for a joker. It is also not appropriate to touch another player's tiles. It is always nice to give 1 or 2 seconds for people at the table to call for a tile before grabbing the next tile and placing it in your rack.

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