Mahjong Game Styles
Mahjong has evolved into many regional variants, each with unique rules and scoring systems — 6 styles, American most popular in US, all 4 players.
Explore the most popular styles played around the world and find the one that fits your group.
Quick Facts
Styles Covered
6
most popular worldwide
Most Popular (US)
American
NMJL card-based
Tile Counts
108–152
varies by style
Players
4
standard for all styles
Which Style Is Right for You?
Not sure where to start? Find a style that matches how you want to play.
You're new to mahjong and want to join a local group in the US
American Mahjong — most US groups play this style, and the NMJL card shows you exactly which hands to build
You want a competitive game with deep strategy
Riichi (Japanese) — yaku requirements and dora tiles create complex strategic decisions
You want to play with family during holidays or casual gatherings
Hong Kong Mahjong — widely played in Cantonese-speaking communities, balances accessibility with strategy
You want fast-paced games with multiple winners
Sichuan Bloody — games continue after the first win, and the suit-voiding mechanic keeps play moving quickly
You want to understand mahjong's roots and traditional scoring
Chinese Classical — the original form that all other variants evolved from, with traditional pung-based scoring
Explore Each Style
Each style has its own character. Tap any card to learn the rules, scoring, and strategy.
American Mahjong
IntermediateThe most popular style in the US, featuring annual card changes and joker tiles
Uses NMJL card with approximately 65-75 winning hand patterns
Riichi Mahjong
AdvancedFast-paced Japanese style with strategic declarations and complex scoring
Riichi declaration: Bet 1,000 points when one tile away from winning
Hong Kong Mahjong
ModerateTraditional Cantonese style with fan-based scoring and cultural significance
Faan (番) scoring system that determines hand value
Chinese Classical Mahjong
ModerateThe original form of mahjong with traditional scoring and regional variations
Pung-based scoring (chows score no points)
Taiwanese Mahjong
ModerateUnique 16-tile variant with extra flexibility and flower tile bonuses
16-tile hand (5 sets + 1 pair to win)
Sichuan Bloody Mahjong
ModerateFast-paced 'blood battle' where play continues until only one player remains
Blood battle: Game continues after first win
Side-by-Side Comparison
Key differences at a glance. American is the most common style for US players.
| Style | Tiles | Key Feature | Difficulty |
|---|---|---|---|
| American | 152 (w/ jokers) | Uses NMJL card with approximately 65-75 winning… | Intermediate |
| Riichi | 136 | Riichi declaration: Bet 1,000 points when one t… | Advanced |
| Hong Kong | 144 | Faan (番) scoring system that determines hand value | Moderate |
| Chinese Classical | 144 | Pung-based scoring (chows score no points) | Moderate |
| Taiwanese | 144 | 16-tile hand (5 sets + 1 pair to win) | Moderate |
| Sichuan | 108 (suits only) | Blood battle: Game continues after first win | Moderate |