JUMP-STARTERS (ARTICLE 212)

American mah jongg is one of the most difficult versions to learn because of the complexities of the annual card. Here are why some new players feel overwhelmed learning the game:

• Sensory overload (i.e., learning style, personality)
• Diminished capacity (i.e., dementia)
• Limited attention span (i.e., tweens, teens)

Consider using one of the following techniques if you are new to the game or teaching players who are overwhelmed learning this complex game.

Option 1: Progressive Approach to Mastering the Card

The purpose of the progressive approach is to master one category at a time in order of difficulty. Start playing just the Consecutive Run category because it is the most flexible category on the card. When they are comfortable with that category, add another. Here is the recommended progression:

• Consecutive Run
• Like Numbers
• 369
• Evens
• Odds
• Year
• Winds-Dragons
• Addition
• Quints
• Singles-Pairs

Option 2: Jump-Start with the T-Zone On Ramp

• Evens
• Consecutive Run
• 369
• Odds

The purpose of the T-Zone is to minimize feeling overwhelmed by limiting the number of categories and so the hands to choose from. Be sure to caution the player not to get stuck in this zone. Phase 1 of the T-Zone is playing hands in the categories listed above. When the player is confidently navigating the T-Zone, progress to Phase 2 by adding the other categories in the left panel. When the player is ready, move on to Phase 3 by adding Quints. The final phase, when ready, is to add the third panel.

Option 3: Jump-start with the V-Zone Bypass

• Evens
• 369
• Odds

The purpose of the V-Zone is similar to the previous but it’s specifically for players who gravitate to Consecutive Run. When the player is confidently navigating the V-Zone, reintroduce Consecutive Run then progress to Phase 2 and so on as described above.

Option 4: KISS

The purpose of the KISS technique is to keep the start simple if mixed-suit hands are stumbling blocks. Play with this phased approach:

• Phase 1 Hands in all one suit (e.g., one color)
• Phase 2 Hands in one suit with flowers
• Phase 3 Hands in one suit with the corresponding dragon with or without flowers

Option 5: Hands of Least Resistance (Article 215)

American mah jongg is a game of multiples. To optimize your winning potential, start every hand by targeting multiples. Keep tiles to support the multiple and focus on a category that uses most of your tiles to simplify and expedite hand development. Keep an eye open for opportunities to play hands with varying shapes using two pungs and two kongs. These are called hands of least resistance because you can use any number of jokers in every block. They are easy, plentiful, and indestructible.

If you ever feel frustrated, discouraged, or overwhelmed with the game, consider playing these hands for a short time to relieve stress, build your confidence, and improve your resilience.

These concepts are demonstrated regularly on the Mahj Life YouTube channel. See the American Mah Jongg Skills and Strategies Matrix for links.