Intro to Japanese Riichi Mahjong

Let's try a look at Japanese Riichi Mahjong.

The core ideas are similar to Hong Kong style, but there are a few refinements which improve the balance of attack and defence. There are a few new (non-gratuitous) scoring patterns, more ways to react to opponents' play, and real incentives to keep your hand closed.

Many people believe the changes give improved scope for skill over luck, and so provide a good basis for competitive play. There are many opportunities to play online (or in some popular console games), various ladder schemes to match you against similar and better players, and a healthy international tournament scene. It's the version of Mahjong I spend most time playing (especially the cut-throat 3 player version...)

For a quick taster, try this student film project - both a short thriller and a decent tutorial! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2cr7Rn86E2s

I'll start with the basic ideas of Riichi and how it differs from Hong Kong style, looking at the mechanisms and then how scoring works. Emphasis will be on getting into many real games quickly, and explaining relevant points when they come up. And if you've played Riichi before, please come along and help!

As before, we'll be off to the side of Freya's Bar (main floor) in Bally's casino. We'll be the ones using smaller tiles and a bit of square plastic in the middle of the table!