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Wait….
what’s Mahjong?
American Mahjong is a beautiful, strategic tile-based game that is smart, social, and totally addictive. Played by four people, it’s all about building specific sequences of tiles— like a stylish puzzle — with the help of an annual playing card from the National Mah Jongg League (NMJL). Think of the NMJL card as your guide to building a winning hand.
The game uses 152 tiles, displaying numbers, images and designs such as Craks, Bams, Dots, Winds, Dragons, Flowers, and Jokers. Players take turns picking up and discarding tiles, all while trying to complete a hand before anyone else does. It’s a mix of strategy, skill, intuition, and a little bit of luck.
How does American Mahjong differ from the original? Jokers, the iconic NMJL card that is updated annually with new combinations, and a fast-paced rhythm are all unique to American Mahjong. It’s a fresh, fun way to engage your brain, connect with others, and enjoy a game that’s been reimagined for modern play.
Whether you’re drawn to the tiles, competition, or conversation American Mahjong is a game you’ll become totally obsessed with!
Mahjong has a rich story that spans continents, generations, and cultures. The game began in China in the mid-to-late 1800s, played with beautifully crafted tiles and rooted in tradition, strategy, and community. Over time, it spread across the globe—evolving as it traveled.
In the 1920s, mahjong made its way to the United States, where it was embraced with enthusiasm and gradually adapted into what we now know as American Mahjong. This version, created by the NMJL, introduced new rules, the iconic annual scoring card, and the use of jokers, making it a unique blend of classic gameplay and American innovation.
For many, mahjong is more than just a game, it’s a tradition passed down, a reason to gather, and a way to connect. It’s played at family tables, in vibrant community centers, and now, increasingly, in stylish modern spaces. Today, mahjong continues to bridge generations and cultures, blending old and new in the most beautiful way.
At Mix & Mahj, we honor where the game came from while celebrating how it’s evolving, making space for everyone at the table.
Okay, but where
did it come from??
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